Is Beef Tallow Actually Good for Your Skin?
A new TikTok trend involves using beef tallow for skin. But is it worth it?
TikTok's beef tallow skincare trend promises everything from deep hydration to less acne and the healing of skin conditions like eczema. The question remains: is beef tallow good for your skin?
Influencer Nara Smith inspired the craze after sharing her DIY beef tallow moisturizer. Now, with influencers across TikTok hyping it up, we’re left wondering: is beef tallow worth the hype or could it be potentially detrimental to your skin’s health? Let’s find out!
What is Beef Tallow for Skin?
Beef tallow is rendered animal fat from cows, often used in cooking, but now it’s gaining popularity in skincare. Rich in fatty acids like oleic acid and stearic acid, which are known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties, beef tallow might just be the moisturizer your skincare routine’s been missing. While many TikTokers swear by its benefits, the benefits of beef tallow for skin may not apply to all.
Why are People Putting Beef Tallow on Their Skin?
You’re not the only one wondering this. After the all, the idea of slathering beef fat on your face isn’t exactly...pretty. That being said, beef tallow does have its benefits. Thanks to its ultra-hydrating lipids, this animal fat absorbs into the skin to protect and strengthen the skin barrier.
Rich in vitamins A and E, beef tallow skincare products can also help with reducing redness, dryness, irritation, and scarring. Some claim it can also help with breakouts—though that’s highly unlikely due to its comedogenic nature.
TikTok’s beef tallow trend is still going strong. So, what’s so special about beef tallow for skin? We’re going to get into that right now.
Is Beef Tallow Good for Your Skin?
Yes and no—depending on your skin type.
Beef tallow, especially grass-fed beef tallow, closely mimics the oils found in human skin, making it an excellent natural moisturizer. It’s packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help hydrate the skin, bolster skin barrier function, and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For those with sensitive skin, beef tallow skincare is a gentle option that can nourish without causing irritation. However, oily skin types should avoid using beef tallow since it is highly comedogenic, meaning it could clog pores and lead to breakouts.
What's more, not everyone is a big fan of the texture. Consequently, they prefer sticking to traditional moisturizers like serums and creams.
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Benefits of Beef Tallow for Skin
Ahead, we break down all the top beef tallow benefits for skin.
Deeply Hydrates
The fatty acids in grass-fed beef tallow are incredibly moisturizing. For that reason, using beef tallow for dry skin can be a good idea if you’re looking for a natural moisturizer. This animal fat absorbs quickly into the skin and locks in moisture, keeping the skin soft and hydrated throughout the day.
Supports Skin Barrier Function
Due to its rich composition of fatty acids and vitamins, beef tallow helps strengthen and protect the skin barrier, which is crucial for maintaining healthy and radiant skin. It keeps moisture (and skin-loving goodness in) and external irritants out.
Anti-Aging
With its high content of vitamins A, D, and E, beef tallow is known for its anti-aging properties. It helps with reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making it a go-to ingredient for those seeking youthful, elasticity-boosting skincare.
The vitamins and fatty acids in tallow help support collagen production—the essential protein responsible for skin’s structure and elasticity. Used regularly, beef tallow may contribute to a firmer, more youthful complexion.
Heals Skin Conditions
Beef tallow’s natural anti-inflammatory properties can help calm irritation, redness, and psoriasis symptoms. It’s often used in tallow products formulated for sensitive skin to reduce discomfort and promote healing.
How to Use Beef Tallow for Skin
Beef tallow is a versatile and nourishing ingredient that can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine. To use it, start by applying tallow balm or tallow cream to your face and body after cleansing. Its rich fatty acids and vitamins A and E deeply hydrate and protect the skin, making it an excellent choice for dry skin and sensitive skin. For a natural lip balm, beef tallow can be applied to dry, cracked lips to keep them soft and moisturized.
You can also use beef tallow as a face cream or serum to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to its anti-aging properties. It promotes elasticity and a radiant glow.
In addition, beef tallow can be used as a body lotion to hydrate rough skin areas like elbows, knees, and feet. For targeted treatment of skin conditions like psoriasis, applying beef tallow directly to affected areas can help calm inflammation and promote healing. For DIY enthusiasts, it can also be mixed with essential oils to create customized skincare products.
How to Choose Beef Tallow Skincare Products
When looking for tallow products, many prefer unscented versions, like tallow balm or tallow cream, which can be used for a variety of skin concerns. Tallow balm is commonly used as a deeply hydrating treatment, while tallow cream is often applied for its anti-aging benefits. It’s always best to patch test a small amount, especially if you’re concerned about the comedogenic nature of tallow.
For those with more specific skincare needs, such as psoriasis or wrinkles, products like face creams and serums formulated with tallow can help improve elasticity and moisture retention. Many tallow-based lotion products also include other nourishing ingredients like olive oil or jojoba oil, making them ideal for dry skin types.
How to Make Beef Tallow for Skin
Looking to create a rich moisturizer, soothing lip balm, or healing body lotion? Homemade beef tallow is an easy DIY solution to add to your skincare routine. Here’s how to make your own.
1. Get Beef Fat: Purchase grass-fed beef fat (suet) from a butcher or online.
2. Cut the Fat: Chop the fat into small pieces (about 1-2 inches).
3. Render the Fat: Place the fat in a pot or slow cooker over low heat. Let it melt, stirring occasionally, for a few hours.
4. Strain the Tallow: Once melted, strain the liquid tallow through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container.
5. Cool and Store: Let the tallow cool and solidify. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Your homemade beef tallow is now ready to use in your skincare routine!
Side Effects of Beef Tallow for Skin
While beef tallow is generally considered safe for most people, it may not be suitable for everyone. Since it is a rich fat and highly comedogenic, those with oily skin or acne-prone skin may find that it clogs pores and worsens breakouts.
Make sure you test the product on a small patch of skin first to ensure you don’t experience irritation or an allergic reaction. Additionally, people with sensitive skin should be cautious, as the high-fat content may be too heavy for some individuals. If you’re concerned, consult with a dermatologist before adding it to your skincare routine.
Do Dermatologists Recommend Beef Tallow in Skincare?
Dermatologists have mixed opinions on beef tallow for skincare. Some appreciate its rich nutrient profile, particularly its high content of vitamins A and E, which can be beneficial for hydration, anti-aging, and improving skin texture.
Others may caution against its use for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, as it is considered comedogenic (pore-clogging). Before jumping into the beef tallow trend, it's always wise to consult with a dermatologist, especially if you have concerns or specific skin conditions.
Is Beef Tallow for Skin Worth It?
Whether beef tallow is worth it depends on your skin type and personal skincare needs. For those with dry skin, sensitive skin, or conditions like eczema and psoriasis, beef tallow can be a deeply nourishing and healing ingredient. Its ability to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier is a huge benefit.
However, if you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, you may want to skip beef tallow to prevent exacerbating breakouts and shine.
As for us? We think we’ll stick to Truly’s bestselling moisturizers for a daily dose of deliciously lightweight hydration.
Feature photo by cottonbro studio
