I Tried Mielle Organics’ Rice Water Clay Masque And It Revived My Dry Curls

For the past few years, the natural hair community has been buzzing about the benefits of rice water. Rice water has been touted for promoting hair growth and softening strands, although there's only been one limited study linking rice bran extract with hair loss prevention. I’ve watched dozens of influencers with textured hair try rice water treatments and rice water products, in awe of their resulting hydrated, voluminous coils. 

So when I received a press sample of Mielle Organics' Rice Water Collection in May, I was eager to see how my hair would respond. The collection boasts four products, but the Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque ($10)—which doubles as a hair and body treatment—immediately piqued my interest.

After giving it a go for the first time last month, I immediately fell in love with how the masque made my hair look, feel, and smell. Here’s everything you need to know about this masque. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Made with all-natural ingredients
• Leaves hair soft, hydrated, and bouncy 

Cons:

• May run out quickly if used regularly on hair and body

Bottom Line: 

The Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque removes impurities while hydrating the hair and skin.

Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque $10.00

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About My Hair: Thick and curly 

 If I could pick three words to describe my hair, they would be: thick, curly, and long. But like many, I went through a phase where flat irons and curling wands were my best friend and damaged my natural curl pattern. So for the past few years, I’ve been limiting heat styling to once or twice a year to restore the health of my tresses. Since my curls are prone to dryness and frizziness, I carefully curate my hair care routine with products that amp up hydration.

 Enter the need for a masque that can deposit ample amounts of moisture into my often parched curls. I apply a generous amount to freshly shampooed hair, making sure to coat my strands from root to tip. I cover my hair with a plastic cap and let the product work its magic for 30 minutes before rinsing it out. Per the instructions, I incorporate it into my routine every two weeks. 

The Feel: Creamy and rich 

This mask is ultra-creamy and smooth. It glided onto my hair like butter, melting into each curly strand as I applied it. Though the masque is a deep pink color, it didn’t leave any colored residue on my hair. 

Ingredients: Packed with good-for-you ingredients

This masque is clean according to Byrdie’s standards. Mielle Organics prioritizes using organic ingredients in their products to promote healthier hair and skin. That’s one of the things I love about the brand. In this product, rice water and yuzu are the key ingredients. As mentioned, rice water has earned anecdotal praise for strengthening strands. Yuzu, a citrus fruit originating in Asia, is known for its anti-aging properties, soothing dry skin, and stimulating collagen production.

This masque also contains a super nourishing blend of oils and butters including shea butter, sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, rapeseed oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, sesame oil, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil.

The Scent: Subtle and sweet 

Upon opening, I was greeted by a pleasantly sweet scent. From peppermint oil to shea butter, this masque is packed with ingredients that meld together to create a fresh, almost tropical-like smell. 

The Results: Juicy curls with tons of bounce

After rinsing the masque out of my hair, I instantly noticed how smooth and shiny my curls were. When my hair fully dried hours later, I saw just how magical this masque was. In the words of Tracee Ellis Ross, my curls were so juicy. They had so much bounce, body, and definition to them. From my roots to my ends, my hair was incredibly soft and above all, moisturized.  

The Value: Affordable price tag

When it comes to hair products, I’m always looking for budget-friendly gems. This masque is one of them. It usually retails for around $10. For how well it performs, this product’s price is a steal. I only wish that it came with a bit more product because those who use it regularly on their hair and body may run through it quickly.

Similar Products: You have options

Belle Bar Organic Rice Water Health & Strength Hair Mask ($39): While it may come with a higher price tag, this mask works overtime to soothe, heal, and moisturize the hair and scalp. It contains quality ingredients including rice water, rosemary, lavender, and rosehip. The only caveat is that you have to mix it yourself at home. 

SheaMoisture Purple Rice Water Hair Masque ($12): Similar to the Mielle Organics masque, this treatment was crafted with natural ingredients. The potent blend of purple rice water, sweet violet extract, and wild orchid work to add hydration to brittle hair. However, this masque is primarily for those with color-treated hair. It is designed to diminish brassy undertones while preserving color.

Our Verdict: Your hair needs this 

The Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque is a dream, especially for textured hair. It works to cleanse the hair (and body) and boost hydration, making it the perfect at-home treatment. Needless to say, this masque has become the conditioning treatment I reach for first on wash days. And once it’s in stock again, I’ll be immediately adding it to my cart so I don’t run out anytime soon.