What Is Magic Water For Hair?

What is Magic Water for Hair?

Magic water refers to water that has been infused with beneficial ingredients, often created by soaking the ingredients overnight and then straining the water to remove any solids. It is then used as a rinse for the hair and scalp. Magic water treatments are an ancient beauty practice that originated in Asia, with records tracing back to the Tang Dynasty in China (618-907 AD) and Heian Period in Japan (794-1185 AD).

One of the most popular and traditional magic water ingredients is fermented rice water. The Yao women of Huangluo Village in China have famously maintained beautiful, waist-length hair well into old age through daily use of rice water rinses. Rice water’s ability to promote hair growth and thickness was referred to as “Rapunzel’s secret” and became popularized more recently outside of Asia.

Other common ingredients used to make magic water include herbs like rosemary, lavender, and nettle, as well as ingredients like aloe vera gel, green tea, chamomile tea, and lemon juice. The specific ingredients can provide different benefits, but in general magic water is known to cleanse, strengthen, add shine, reduce frizz and split ends, stimulate growth, slow graying, and improve overall hair health.

How Does Magic Water Work?

Magic water contains unique ingredients that help nourish and repair damaged hair. The key ingredients that set magic water apart include:

• Hyaluronic acid – This ingredient is known for its ability to hold up to 1000x its weight in water. When applied to hair, hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture, leaving hair ultra-hydrated (1).
• Amino acids – These building blocks of protein help reinforce and reconstruct the hair structure from within. Amino acids in magic water fill in gaps in the hair cuticle for smoother, softer hair (2).
• Botanical extracts – Ingredients like moringa seed extract and aloe vera juice provide vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients that boost shine and strength (3).

Unlike regular shampoos that simply cleanse the hair, magic water contains conditioning and repairing ingredients that penetrate deeply into the hair shaft. The lightweight formula allows active ingredients to be rapidly absorbed into the hair cuticle and cortex (4).

Magic water helps smooth down the lifted cuticle scales that cause dry, damaged hair. This sealing effect provides an instant smoothing and softening result. With continued use, magic water helps reconstruct the hair internally for less frizz and fewer split ends over time.

Sources:

(1) https://chatelaine.com/style/beauty/what-is-lamellar-water/

(2) https://www.therapispa.com/products/true-magic-water-treatment-magic-in-10-seconds

(3) https://oceansalonsystems.com/products/itely-magic-water

Benefits of Using Magic Water

Magic water can provide numerous benefits for hair health and appearance. One of the main benefits is adding shine and softness to hair. Magic water contains ingredients like glycerin, dimethicone, and silicone derivatives which coat the hair shaft and make it appear smoother and softer ^[1]. These ingredients can also increase light reflectivity for enhanced shine and gloss.

Magic water is effective at managing frizz and flyaways. The smoothing agents in the formulas create a barrier on the hair cuticles to lock in moisture and prevent humidity from swelling the strands. This helps smooth the cuticle and eliminate frizz ^[2]. The result is hair that appears sleeker and more controlled.

Some magic water products also contain UV filters and antioxidants which help protect hair color from fading in the sun and other environmental damage ^[3]. These added nutrients reinforce the hair structure and preserve vibrancy of color treated hair.

Finally, certain magic water formulas contain ingredients like biotin, amino acids, proteins, and vitamins that may stimulate hair growth over time with continued use. These nutrients nourish hair follicles and support healthy growth cycles ^[3]. More research is still needed, but initial studies show promise for magic water spurring new growth.

How to Use Magic Water

Magic water is typically used as the final rinse after shampooing and conditioning your hair. After washing and conditioning as normal, squeeze out excess water from your hair. Then, apply a generous amount of magic water throughout your hair from roots to ends, massaging it in for 5-10 seconds until a light foam forms. Let it sit on your hair for an additional 10-60 seconds. Finally, rinse out thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticle.

Some magic water products can also be used as a leave-in treatment. After shampooing and conditioning, towel dry hair and apply magic water evenly from roots to ends without rinsing out. This allows the ingredients to penetrate the hair for maximum conditioning effects. Let hair air dry as normal.

For best results, use magic water 1-2 times per week, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Overuse may lead to buildup or make hair appear greasy. Those with damaged, dry, or chemically treated hair may want to use it more frequently as a nourishing treatment.

Types of Magic Water Formulas

There are several brand name magic water options to choose from, each with their own unique ingredients and properties. Some of the most popular pre-made magic water formulas include:

• L’Oreal Magic Root Cover Up – Contains ammonia and oxidative dyes to cover greys. Higher cost at $8-15 per bottle.
• John Frieda Root Touch Up – Ammonia-free formula with light dye to blend grays. Mid-range cost around $7-12.
• Clairol Root Touch-Up – Comes in a range of shades to match different hair colors. Contains peroxide and costs $5-10.
• Madison Reed Root Touch Up – Uses gentler ingredient alternatives with argan oil. Pricier at $15-25 per kit.
• Overtone Coloring Conditioner – Deposits color like a semi-permanent dye. Costs $15-30 depending on size.

The main differences come down to whether they use harsher ingredients like ammonia and peroxide or more natural alternatives. Brand, size, and type of dye/pigments also impact the costs. Overall pre-made formulas range from $5 on the low end, up to $30 for some of the higher-end options.

Magic Water vs. Conditioner

Magic water is often compared to regular hair conditioner, as both products aim to smooth, detangle, and moisturize the hair. However, there are some key differences between the two:

Magic water acts as an “instant conditioner” that can be applied to wet or dry hair for an immediate smoothing effect. It contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and moringa seed extract to coat the hair shaft and provide moisture. The lightweight liquid texture allows for easy and even distribution from roots to ends without weighing hair down. Magic water is rinsed out after use.

Regular hair conditioner is usually thicker in texture and applied after shampooing in the shower. It penetrates the hair cuticle to nourish from within. Ingredients like oils and butters provide lasting hydration and smoothness. Conditioner is meant to be left on the hair and may require a leave-in product for extra moisture. Some types of conditioners can also be used as hair masks for deep conditioning.

The key pros of magic water are the instant smoothing results, lightweight feel, and versatility to use on wet or dry hair. The pros of regular conditioner are the intensive hydration, lasting effects, and deep conditioning properties. Those with very dry or damaged hair may prefer the rich conditioning of traditional conditioner. However, magic water offers a quick conditioning boost that can supplement a haircare routine.

Making DIY Magic Water

Magic water allows you to make affordable, customized formulas using simple kitchen ingredients. Here are some easy DIY recipes to try at home:

Basic Magic Water

This simple recipe only requires two ingredients (https://lavendergypsy.com/rosemary-water-for-hair-recipe/):

• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp dried rosemary (or a handful of fresh rosemary)

Bring the water to a boil, remove from heat, and add the rosemary. Let steep for at least 30 minutes, then strain and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Magic Water for Dry Hair

Try this moisturizing blend for parched locks (https://lavendergypsy.com/rosemary-water-for-hair-recipe/):

• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp dried rosemary
• 1 tbsp coconut or olive oil

Follow the same steps as the basic recipe, adding the oil before steeping.

Customize your DIY magic water to target any hair concern. Play with different herb combos and essential oils to create your perfect formula.

Magic Water Risks and Considerations

While magic water can provide benefits for hair, there are some potential risks and considerations to keep in mind.

Overusing rice water, for example, can lead to dry, brittle hair and even irritated skin for some people. As noted in this source, the starch content in rice water can be drying for some hair types when used too frequently. It’s best to start slowly and adjust usage based on your hair’s needs.

Ingredients like lemon juice and essential oils added to magic water can also cause irritation or allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin or scalps. It’s important to patch test any DIY magic water recipes before applying them to your whole head.

Some types of magic water, like those containing eggs, may not be suitable for all hair types. The proteins can prove too heavy or oily for fine, limp hair. Discontinue use if your hair seems greasy or limp after rinsing out magic water.

As with any new hair product, consult your dermatologist if you experience any adverse effects like itching, redness, or hair loss when using magic water. While quite rare, some ingredients may not agree with your individual hair and scalp needs.

Who Can Benefit from Magic Water?

Magic water can provide benefits for many different hair types and lifestyles. Some key groups who may see excellent results from using magic water include:

Those with dry, damaged hair. Magic water is formulated to provide intense hydration and repair split ends and breakage (Itely Magic Water). This makes it ideal for very dry or porous hair that is prone to frizz and needs deep conditioning.

People with thick, coarse hair. The nutrients in magic water help smooth and soften coarse hair strands, increasing manageability (Magic Water by ITELY – YouTube). Using magic water can make thick hair more supple and easier to detangle.

Those with chemically treated hair. Frequent use of dyes, bleaches, perms and other chemical services can leave hair extremely damaged. Magic water provides a nourishing treatment to restore strength and shine for over-processed hair.

Curly hair types. The hydrating and frizz-fighting effects of magic water are beneficial for curl patterns that tend to be dry. Using magic water can enhance definition and cut down on frizz for curly hair.

Active lifestyles. For those who swim or play sports frequently, magic water can help protect hair from chlorine and sun damage. The antioxidants replenish moisture for hair that gets washed frequently.

Travelers. The portable, lightweight formulas are perfect for restoring hair health after long flights or trips. Magic water quickly revives hair away from home.

The Future of Magic Water

Ongoing research is exploring new formulas and ingredients for magic water treatments. Scientists are studying how to optimize the lamellar structures for deeper penetration and longer-lasting effects (1). Brands like L’Oreal are investing in proprietary technologies like Lamellar Water 2.0 to improve shine, smoothness, and manageability (2).

Industry forecasts predict the global hair care market will reach $112 billion by 2025, driven partly by demand for innovative new products like magic waters (3). As more brands release their own versions, these shine-boosting treatments are expected to achieve mass popularity. Social media has increased awareness of their instantly transformative effects. Magic waters deliver noticeable differences that consumers can see and feel right away, fueling viral sharing.

Moving forward, magic water is poised to evolve from a niche product into a haircare staple. Improved formulas, smart marketing, and consumer testimonials will likely propel these treatments into the mainstream. Expect to see magic waters stocked in drugstores instead of just high-end salons. Their convenience, efficacy, and “wow” factor position magic waters as a leading hair innovation now and in the years ahead.

(1) https://www.lorealparisusa.com/beauty-magazine/hair-care/damaged-hair/lamellar-technology-treatment
(2) https://www.lorealparisusa.com/hair-care-hair-style/hair-treatments/elvive-8-second-wonder-water-lamellar-hair-treatment
(3) https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/hair-waters-the-miracle-treatments-consumers-have-been