Why People Are Turning to Beef Tallow for Skincare: An Ancient Fat Making a Comeback

In a world obsessed with modern beauty serums, chemical peels, and ever-evolving skincare trends, a surprising ancient remedy is making a strong comeback: beef tallow.

Yes, you read that right. This traditional fat, rendered from the suet of cows, is finding its way into modern skincare routines and for good reason.

Let’s break down why beef tallow is gaining popularity in the natural skincare world, and why some are swearing by it over more conventional products.

What Is Beef Tallow?

Beef tallow is a form of rendered fat derived from beef suet, typically from grass-fed cows. It's been used for centuries in cooking, candle-making, soap-making, and yes - skincare. While it might sound odd in today’s beauty landscape, using animal fat on the skin is nothing new. In fact, traditional societies around the world have used animal fats for skin health long before moisturizers came in plastic tubes.

Why Use Beef Tallow for Skincare?

It’s Rich in Skin-Friendly Nutrients

Beef tallow is packed with fat-soluble vitamins that are crucial for skin health, including:

• Vitamin A – promotes skin cell turnover and helps prevent breakouts

• Vitamin D – plays a role in skin barrier function and immune defense

• Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from damage

• Vitamin K – supports wound healing and may reduce dark circles

These nutrients are naturally occurring in grass-fed tallow and are highly bioavailable, meaning your skin can absorb and use them easily.

It’s Similar to Human Skin Oil (Sebum)

Tallow’s fatty acid profile closely resembles the sebum naturally produced by our skin. This makes it:

• Non-comedogenic for most people (i.e., doesn’t clog pores)

• Highly moisturizing without feeling greasy

• Easily absorbed, leaving skin soft and nourished

This “like-likes-like” principle is a key reason why people with sensitive, dry, or irritated skin often find tallow soothing and non-irritating.

It’s Free from Harsh Chemicals

Most commercial moisturizers contain:

• Synthetic fragrances

• Preservatives

• Emulsifiers

• Petroleum-based ingredients

Tallow-based skincare, especially when handmade like ours, contains minimal ingredients so for those with allergies, eczema, or sensitive skin, this simplicity can be a game-changer.

It Supports a Natural, Ancestral Approach to Skincare

As people move away from synthetic products and return to whole, natural ingredients in their diets, it makes sense they’re doing the same for their skin. The “ancestral skincare” movement embraces the idea that our skin evolved with certain natural substances - animal fats included - and often thrives when we strip back modern chemical-laden routines.

It’s Sustainable (When Sourced Responsibly)

Our tallow is sourced from grass-fed cows, where tallow is often a byproduct of the meat industry which means it helps reduce waste. Instead of throwing away perfectly useful fat, it’s repurposed for skincare. This appeals to eco-conscious consumers who want to minimize their environmental impact and use every part of the animal.

Who Can Benefit from Tallow Skincare?

Tallow is especially popular among people with:

• Dry or flaky skin

• Eczema or psoriasis

• Sensitive skin prone to reactions

• Acne-prone skin (surprisingly!)

• A desire to simplify their skincare routine

Of course, as with any product, patch testing is a good idea especially for those with allergies or sensitivities.

Is It for Everyone?

Not necessarily. People following a vegan lifestyle will likely avoid animal-based products, and that’s completely valid. But for others who value natural, nutrient-dense skincare and ethical sourcing, tallow offers a compelling option.

Have you tried tallow for skincare? Let us know your experience by sharing your thoughts with us via our social media!