Evidence supporting the use of: Animal protein
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

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Synopsis

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

Animal protein, in various forms such as hydrolyzed keratin, collagen peptides, or general dietary protein, is sometimes used to support hair health and potentially address hair loss or thinning. Scientifically, hair is primarily composed of the protein keratin, and adequate protein intake is essential for normal hair growth and maintenance. Some studies suggest that insufficient dietary protein can lead to hair shedding and thinning. However, direct evidence that supplemental or topical "animal protein (unspecified)" specifically prevents or reverses hair loss in otherwise healthy individuals is limited.

Most scientific support is indirect: ensuring adequate protein intake is necessary for general hair health, and some animal-derived proteins have been incorporated into topical products (like shampoos or conditioners) with the claim of strengthening hair or improving its appearance. However, the ability of these proteins to penetrate the hair shaft or scalp and stimulate new growth is not well established in rigorous clinical trials. Oral collagen supplements—often derived from animal sources—have shown some promise in small studies for improving hair thickness and growth, but the evidence is not robust or specific to all forms of "animal protein."

In summary, while there is a biological rationale and some limited scientific validation for the use of animal protein to support hair health, the direct evidence for treating or reversing hair loss or thinning, especially with unspecified animal proteins, remains weak.

More about animal protein
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Products containing animal protein

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