Evidence supporting the use of: Tallow
For the health condition: Hair Care (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tallow, rendered animal fat (typically from cows or sheep), has a long history of use in hair care dating back centuries in various cultures. Traditionally, it was applied to the hair and scalp as a pomade or moisturizer before the advent of modern hair care products. The use of tallow in hair care is primarily based on its physical properties: it is rich in saturated and monounsaturated fats, which can help coat the hair shaft, reduce moisture loss, and impart shine. Folk remedies and historical texts often mention tallow as a base for traditional ointments, hair dressings, and scalp treatments, especially before plant-based and synthetic oils became widely available.

However, there is a lack of rigorous scientific research specifically validating tallow’s effectiveness for promoting hair health, growth, or treating scalp conditions. Modern hair care science tends to focus on plant-derived oils (like coconut, argan, or jojoba) which have more thoroughly studied benefits. Despite this, tallow remains popular in some natural and traditional communities who value ancestral practices or seek alternatives to synthetic ingredients. In summary, while there is considerable traditional use of tallow in general hair care, scientific validation is minimal.

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Products containing Tallow

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