Social media has a way of drumming up ingredients that have been around for ages and bringing them back into the spotlight. The latest
skin care trend to go viral online?
Beef tallow. It’s been around for thousands of years, but some people are just discovering it — and applying it to their faces. While it’s long been used in cooking, particularly in deep frying, the fatty substance is sometimes used topically as a moisturizer.
You may have seen social media posts claiming that beef tallow is the miracle solution to all of your skin problems. It’s touted for its benefits for
dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis, but beef tallow may not be for everyone. Read on for a look into the possible skin benefits of beef tallow and when it’s not suitable for your skin type or lifestyle.
What is beef tallow?
Tallow is rendered fat from ruminant animals, typically cows. This means that leftover fat from cows doesn’t go to waste — it’s purified into a usable substance. It’s also sometimes known as “beef drippings.”
Beef tallow has a whitish appearance and hard, solid texture. Though it’s commonly compared to lard (aka rendered fat from pigs), it’s not as soft and has a slightly more savory taste.
Traditionally, beef tallow was reserved for use in the kitchen and around the home. High in
saturated fat, it’s perfect for frying and roasting, though it’s not the most heart-healthy choice. It can even be used to make candles and soaps and
season cast-iron pans. Now, some people also keep a jar of beef tallow with the rest of their skin care products. Here’s why.
Why beef tallow is trending
Beef tallow has blown up on social media, especially TikTok. Some people who have incorporated it into their skin care routines have found that beef tallow works wonders for their skin. They claim it increases skin moisture,
soothes eczema flare-ups and more. It’s also a natural source of vitamins that nourish the skin. With so much hype around beef tallow, it can seem like a miracle cure for common skin frustrations.
However, with hype comes criticism. The other side of the coin is that beef tallow may be too rich for some skin types. If your skin is oily or
acne-prone, the greasy nature of beef tallow may exacerbate your issues. Let’s dive into the advantages and disadvantages of beef tallow, so you can make an informed choice.
4 skin benefits of beef tallow
There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence supporting the popularity of beef tallow, but what does the research say? A 2024 review gathered data from 19 studies and found the following possible
skin benefits of beef tallow, though more research is ultimately needed.
1. Moisturizes dry skin
The main appeal to using beef tallow topically is that it’s very moisturizing and may seal in hydration. A type of solid fat, it’s no surprise that beef tallow provides fatty acids to the skin, namely oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Skin naturally contains fatty acids, which serve the important function of retaining moisture. So, applying beef tallow may help lock in moisture in dry, dehydrated skin.
2. May help with skin conditions and wounds
Is beef tallow suitable for
sensitive skin? Research suggests so. It has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it a good choice for those dealing with a skin condition or wounded skin. Specifically, beef tallow has been shown to alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis (aka eczema) and psoriasis. When used in soap, beef tallow may also help with wound healing.
3. Provides vitamins
Beef tallow has traditionally been used in food, so we know a great deal about its nutritional makeup. It provides a handful of vitamins — including vitamins A, D, K, E and B12 — which, when applied topically, may contribute to its skin benefits. For example, vitamin A is a known antioxidant with anti-aging benefits, and vitamin E is highly moisturizing. Research suggests these vitamins may help nourish the skin.
4. Has anti-inflammatory properties
A little inflammation helps your skin fend off infections or injuries, but too much inflammation can be problematic. Skin inflammation can show up in skin irritation, wounds, and certain skin conditions, but beef tallow has been shown to fight it off. This makes it useful for soothing eczema and psoriasis and healing wounds, but the anti-inflammatory properties of beef tallow may also help alleviate symptoms like itching and blisters.
Who shouldn’t apply beef tallow
While beef tallow may yield a positive difference in some people’s skin, it’s not a miracle cure. It’s important to have realistic expectations when using any new skin care product, and better yet, it’s a good idea to check with a dermatologist for personalized advice. Here’s who this trend isn’t for.
Since it’s somewhat greasy, beef tallow may clog pores. Those with acne should look for non-comedogenic moisturizers, which are free from pore-clogging ingredients. Similarly, people with oily skin may find beef tallow too rich. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer may be a better choice.
There are also ethical and environmental concerns of beef tallow. It’s an animal-based ingredient, so vegans and vegetarians may feel uncomfortable using it. And though it’s natural, beef tallow isn’t reef-safe, so environmentalists may not approve either.
How to use beef tallow for skin care
If you’ve decided to give it a try, here are the best practices of using beef tallow for skin:
Consult a dermatologist: The research on beef tallow for certain skin conditions is promising, but if you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, you shouldn’t try to manage it on your own. A dermatologist can help you tailor your skin care routine to your unique needs.
Perform a patch test: Beef tallow isn’t commonly associated with side effects or allergic reactions, but performing a patch test is a good rule of thumb.
Apply to clean dry: The fatty acids in beef tallow lock in moisture, but it could also trap dirt, debris, and irritants. Cleanse your face before using it as a moisturizer.
Warm it in your hands: Beef tallow is solid at room temperature, but your natural body heat will help it melt. Rub a small amount in your hands so it’s easier to apply.
Use it near the end of your routine: Thicker skin care products should be applied last, so apply beef tallow after toners and serums but before facial oils and sunscreen.
Packaged in a large glass jar, the
Epic Rendered Beef Tallow contains only one simple ingredient: 100% beef tallow.
