In his latest family YouTube vlog, Shoaib Ibrahim shared a glimpse of his wife, Dipika Kakar, applying a hair mask and later applying it to their son, Ruhaan's, hair as well. Sharing that it makes for a "natural" hair care routine, the Sasural Simar Ka actor said: "I have applied rice flour hair mask. All natural," shared Kakar, 39, as husband and actor Shoaib Ibrahim asked, "Abhi se kyu iske (why does he need it?)." Kakar went on to share the ingredients used to prepare the mask. "It just has rice flour, flax seeds, and coconut oil." Taking a cue, we decided to ask an expert if there are any benefits to applying this mask. Dr Vishalakshi Viswanath, consultant dermatologist, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, said that natural ingredients like rice flour, flax seeds, and coconut oil are known for their nourishing properties. "However, it is important to remember that what works for adults may not always be suitable for babies. Rice flour can gently exfoliate the scalp and remove excess oil. Flax seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids that can improve hair texture, and coconut oil intensely moisturises the scalp. But a baby's skin and scalp are incredibly sensitive, so these ingredients need to be used sparingly, if at all," said Dr Vishalakshi. Do rice flour and flaxseed really help grow hair? According to Dr Vishalakshi, rice flour includes amino acids and starch, which help to strengthen hair and make it shine. "Flaxseed's biologically active substances, particularly its antioxidant and essential fatty acid content, assist in moistening the hair, reducing frizz, and enhancing texture. They also reduce inflammation on the scalp, stimulate hair growth, and protect against environmentally damaging effects. But these ingredients don't actually cause hair to grow faster. They just make the scalp healthier and less prone to breakage, making it easier for growth to occur," described Dr Vishalakshi. For regular results, a healthy diet and good scalp care are more important than any home mask. What to note? Dr Vishalakshi stressed that "natural" does not necessarily mean "safe". "Homemade remedies can be variable in concentration and sanitation, producing unanticipated reactions. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist before using these preparations, especially in children. For infants, keep things simple and gentle, mild baby shampoo, coconut oil massage, and a clean scalp, and it will be okay," said Dr Vishalakshi. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
