Benefits of cornstarch for hair and how to prepare mixtures from it

Cornstarch is one of the traditional and well-known ingredients that we all use in many food recipes. It is also commonly added to hair care mixtures. Cornstarch has fantastic properties that help in treating hair problems like hair loss and split ends. In this article from Dalili Medical, we will talk about the benefits of cornstarch for hair and how to prepare mixtures to make your hair healthier and shinier.

Nutritional Value of Cornstarch Cornstarch is high in calories and carbohydrates, but contains a low amount of beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here is the nutritional value of one cup of cornstarch (approximately 128 grams):

Calories: 488 calories
Protein: 0.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 117 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Copper: 7% of the daily requirement
Selenium: 7% of the daily requirement
Iron: 3% of the daily requirement
Manganese: 3% of the daily requirement

Benefits of Cornstarch for Hair

Cornstarch contains several substances that improve hair growth, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. These components contribute to various hair benefits, including:

Improves Hair Growth
Cornstarch is excellent for reducing hair loss and promoting growth. Its amino acids and vitamins, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and some B vitamins, help rejuvenate the hair.
Reduces Split Ends
Split ends can make your hair look dull and damaged, but the protein in cornstarch helps reduce this problem.
Increases Hair Volume
Rinsing your hair with cornstarch-rich rice water after shampooing is one of the best ways to enhance texture and volume. It keeps your hair strong and healthy.
Protects Hair from Damage
Cornstarch helps reduce surface friction and improves hair elasticity because it contains carbohydrates like Inositol, which repair and protect damaged hair. This protection lasts even after rinsing.
Strengthens Hair Roots
Cornstarch-rich rice water is rich in amino acids that strengthen your hair roots, leaving your hair soft and smooth.
Helps Treat Dandruff
Dandruff can cause irritation and unsightly flakes. Cornstarch can give relief from dandruff and help prevent recurrence with regular use.
Eliminates Lice
Cornstarch kills lice and nits quickly and prevents them from multiplying, making it an effective solution for lice problems.
Reduces Excess Oil in Hair
Cornstarch helps absorb excess oil from the hair, leaving it dry and silky while also maintaining moisture in the scalp and hair.
Nourishes Hair with Vitamins
Cornstarch is used in hair care because it is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6, which nourish the hair with essential vitamins and fatty acids that make it healthy and shiny, repairing damaged and weak hair.
Prevents Hair Loss
Cornstarch helps reduce hair loss because its antioxidant properties protect the scalp cells from inflammation that can lead to hair shedding.
Protects Hair from Damage
As mentioned earlier, the Inositol in cornstarch improves the elasticity of the hair, reducing damage and protecting it for longer periods.
Moisturizes Hair
Cornstarch helps the hair retain natural oils, providing moisture to dry hair, reducing split ends, and helping to repair hair. It also protects the scalp from dryness and dandruff caused by scalp inflammation due to its high content of Omega 3 and Omega 6.
Detangles Hair
If you have tangles in your hair, apply cornstarch to the tangled areas. It reduces friction and moisturizes the hair fibers, making it easier to detangle and prevent hair loss from combing.

How to Use Cornstarch for Hair

Cornstarch is a versatile ingredient that you can apply to your scalp and hair to control oil, volume, and frizz. Here's how you can use cornstarch in different ways to benefit your hair:

Scalp Treatment Before Shampooing
Apply a cornstarch mask to your scalp to help control excess sebum production before shampooing. This treatment is especially useful for those with oily scalps. To make the mask, mix cornstarch with water to form a paste, apply it to your scalp, and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing it off thoroughly.
Dry Shampoo
One of the most popular uses of cornstarch for hair is as a dry shampoo. It works effectively to control oil. To use it, comb or detangle your hair first, then start with a small amount of cornstarch—about a teaspoon or less, depending on your hair length and thickness. Pour the cornstarch into your hands or a small container to control the amount. Gently massage it into your scalp, focusing on areas that tend to get oily or where you want to add volume. Then, use a brush or comb to distribute it evenly and avoid white spots.
Enhance Volume
Adding cornstarch directly to your conditioner can give your hair a volume boost. Mix a small amount of cornstarch with your regular conditioner. Apply this mixture to your hair, focusing on the roots and areas where you want more volume. Rinse well to enjoy a fuller, thicker appearance.
Reduce Frizz
If you want to reduce frizz, especially on humid days, cornstarch can help. Make a cornstarch solution by mixing it with water until it forms a liquid solution. After shampooing and conditioning, pour the cornstarch rinse over your hair. It acts as a natural way to tame rough hair, leaving it smoother and easier to style.

1. Cornstarch and Water Mixture for Hair Softening
Ingredients:

4 tablespoons of cornstarch
1/2 cup of water

Preparation:

Wash your hair thoroughly.
Mix the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of cold water and stir well until the cornstarch dissolves.
Gradually add hot water to form a thick, Vaseline-like paste.
Divide your hair into two or four sections, depending on hair thickness, and apply the mixture from roots to ends.
Leave the mixture on your hair for 3 hours, covering it with a plastic bag.
Rinse your hair well with shampoo. You'll notice the difference after the first use.

2. Cornstarch and Olive Oil Mixture for Hair Moisturizing
Ingredients:

4 tablespoons of cornstarch
4 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of coconut oil

Preparation:

Mix all the ingredients until you get a creamy consistency.
Divide your hair into sections and apply the mixture from roots to ends.
Leave the mixture on for 4 hours, covering with a plastic bag.
Wash your hair with water.

3. Cornstarch and Honey Mixture for Hair Straightening
Ingredients:

6 tablespoons of cornstarch
1 tablespoon of honey
5 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Preparation:

Mix all the ingredients together and apply the mixture to your hair.
Leave it on for about 2 hours.
Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo, then dry.
Repeat this treatment 1-2 times a week.

4. Cornstarch and Almond Oil Mixture for Split Ends Treatment
Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of cornstarch
A little warm water
A few drops of almond oil

Preparation:

Mix the cornstarch with almond oil and warm water.
Leave the mixture on your hair for 30 minutes.
Wash your hair with water and shampoo.
Repeat this treatment twice a week for smooth and healthy hair free from damage and split ends.

5. Cornstarch and Turmeric Powder Mixture for Dry Hair Treatment
Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of cornstarch
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Preparation:

Mix cornstarch with turmeric powder and coconut oil.
Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it for 30 minutes.
Wash your hair with warm water and shampoo.

Cornstarch and Aloe Vera Mixture for Hair Care
Ingredients:

Fresh aloe vera gel
2 tablespoons of cornstarch

Preparation:

Mix the aloe vera gel with the cornstarch until you reach a suitable consistency.
Apply the mixture to the scalp, massaging it into the roots.
Leave it on for 3-4 hours before washing with a suitable shampoo.
You can repeat this mask once a week for stronger, thicker hair

Cornstarch Hair Mask for Curly Hair

When dealing with curly hair, cornstarch can help provide noticeable smoothness while reducing frizz. Here’s how to prepare a mask specifically for curly hair:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of cornstarch
1 tablespoon of your preferred oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil, or sweet almond oil)
1 tablespoon of pure honey
3-4 liters of water
1 tablespoon of natural conditioner

Preparation:

Mix the water with cornstarch and stir until the cornstarch dissolves.
Place the mixture on low heat while stirring constantly.
Once the mixture thickens, remove it from the heat and wait for it to cool.
Add the chosen oil and conditioner to the mixture to achieve a creamy consistency.

Application:

Apply the mask to your hair, ensuring that it reaches and penetrates the scalp completely.
Massage gently, then cover your head with a shower cap.
Leave the mask on overnight.
In the morning, rinse your hair with warm water and use a shampoo suitable for your hair type.

Frequency:
Use this mask 1-2 times a week to achieve the desired results.

Cornstarch Hair Mask for Oily Hair

Cornstarch is ideal for people with oily hair, as it helps absorb excess oil while strengthening the hair. Here's how to prepare a mask for oily hair:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of cornstarch
1 tablespoon of baking soda
Water (enough to make a paste)

Preparation:

Combine the cornstarch and baking soda in a bowl.
Gradually add water to achieve the right consistency while stirring.

Application:

Wet your hair before applying the mask to make it easier to apply.
Section your hair away from the roots and apply the mask, massaging gently.
Leave the mask on for about 1 hour.
Wash your hair with a shampoo suitable for your hair type.

Frequency:
Repeat this mask 2 times a week for the best results.

Benefits:
Cornstarch has absorbing and exfoliating properties, making it perfect for oily hair. It helps smooth the hair and cleanse it naturally at home.

Side Effects of Cornstarch on Hair

While cornstarch offers numerous benefits for hair, excessive or improper use can lead to some negative effects. Here are some potential side effects of cornstarch on hair:

Clogging Hair Follicles:
Using cornstarch too frequently without washing it off properly can cause it to clog the hair follicles. This can result in scalp infections and the appearance of pimples or irritation on the scalp.
Hair Breakage:
Prolonged use of dry shampoo with cornstarch without regular washing can lead to hair breakage and split ends due to the drying effects. Just like skin, hair requires proper hydration to prevent damage from dryness.
Dandruff:
Cornstarch tends to absorb oils from the scalp, leaving the hair dry. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of dry flakes and result in dandruff. Proper moisturizing or scalp treatment may be needed to restore balance.
Loss of Shine and Luster:
Leaving cornstarch on the hair for extended periods can cause it to lose its natural shine and luster. Additionally, you may notice visible patches of cornstarch on your hair, which can make it look dull and unkempt.
Scalp Irritation:
For individuals with sensitive skin or scalp, excessive use of cornstarch without thorough cleaning can lead to irritation, redness, or discomfort on the scalp.

It's essential to use cornstarch in moderation and wash it off thoroughly to avoid these potential negative effects and maintain healthy hair.

Tips for Using Cornstarch on Hair

When applying cornstarch to your hair, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure you get the best results and avoid any adverse effects. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Avoid Using on Dry Hair:
Cornstarch can make dry hair even drier, leading to breakage and dullness. It is more suitable for those with oily hair as it helps absorb excess oil. If you have dry hair, avoid using cornstarch treatments.
Apply Cornstarch Masks Before Bed:
To avoid exposing your hair to sun and environmental factors, it’s best to apply cornstarch masks in the evening before bed. Leaving the mask overnight helps avoid blocking your pores under the sun and prevents scalp irritation or acne.
Avoid Using Dry Shampoo Regularly:
While cornstarch is commonly used in dry shampoos, leaving it on your scalp for extended periods can cause dryness and dandruff. It is best to avoid frequent use of dry cornstarch-based shampoos to keep your scalp healthy.
Don’t Wash Hair Before Application:
Washing your hair before applying cornstarch masks can cause the cornstarch to clump together and not distribute properly. It’s best to apply the mask to slightly damp or dry hair to allow even coverage.
Wash Hair Thoroughly After Use:
After using a cornstarch mask or treatment, make sure to wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo to remove all traces of cornstarch. This ensures that no buildup remains and avoids irritation or dryness.