Bear Oil Shampoo: From Ancestral Past to Modern Vegan Version

Bear oil, also known as bear's grease, has a fascinating history that links two worlds: the European and the Native American. In both, this natural fat was considered for centuries a beauty secret for hair.

Bear oil and its origin in Europe: the first “hair treatment”

In 18th and 19th century Europe, bear oil was a luxury product. It came mainly from Russia and was sold by perfumers and apothecaries in elegant ceramic bottles. It was used as a treatment to prevent hair loss, reduce scalp dryness, and add shine. According to records from the time, it was even believed to stimulate hair growth and strengthen weakened follicles.

The rise of this product coincided with the abandonment of powdered wigs in England, which boosted the fashion for natural and well-groomed hair. However, authentic bear fat was expensive and difficult to obtain, which led many manufacturers to adulterate it with pig or goat fats. Over time, it was replaced by vegetable alternatives such as coconut oil and palm oil.

Use of bear grease among Native North American peoples

In parallel, indigenous peoples of North America already used bear grease long before Europe commercialized it. Tribes such as the Delaware, Huron, Sauk, and Dakota Sioux applied it to add shine, perfume, and protect hair. In some cases, it was mixed with herbs or natural pigments like red ochre, and was part of beauty rituals and cultural expression. It also served to keep hair strong and resistant to harsh weather conditions.

The rebirth of an idea: Vegan Bear Oil Shampoo

Inspired by this historical legacy, at Maxalli we are developing a contemporary reinterpretation: Vegan Bear Oil Shampoo.
It contains no animal fat, but rather a modern blend of castor oil, plant-based emollients, and gentle cleansers free of salt, sulfates, silicones, and parabens. Its rich, creamy texture offers a 2-in-1 effect, cleansing while leaving a nourishing layer that moisturizes hair without weighing it down.

Additionally, we evoke its natural essence with a forest scent, inspired by the landscapes where this ancient remedy was born. This new version retains the original spirit—strong, shiny, and healthy hair—but aligned with current values of sustainability, ethics, and clean formulation.

Maxalli's Bear Oil Shampoo is a fusion of history, science, and nature.
A conscious evolution of an ancient secret.

Had you ever heard about bear oil? Would you try its vegan version? Tell us your opinion in the comments.