To Tallow or Not to Tallow? That is the Question.
Beef tallow for skincare?
Beef Tallow on Your Face?
From TikTok to Instagram, beef tallow has made its way into the skincare conversation—promising everything from clearer skin to "ancestral" radiance. But is slathering rendered animal fat on your face really a good idea?
Let’s take a closer, clinical look.
What is Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow is rendered fat from cows, often promoted as a natural moisturizer due to its fatty acid profile and vitamin content (like A, D, E, and K). It’s solid at room temperature and highly occlusive, meaning it creates a barrier over the skin to help lock in moisture.
The Claims vs. The Concerns
The Claims:
Tallow fans say it’s deeply nourishing, calming to the skin barrier, and “bioavailable” (closely mimicking our skin’s natural oils).
But Here’s the Clinical Reality:
It’s extremely occlusive, which may help dry or compromised skin in certain cases (like on the body or lips)
For acne-prone or oily skin, this can backfire—clogging pores, trapping bacteria, and potentially contributing to milia, comedones, or even fungal acne
It’s comedogenic (likely to clog pores) for many skin types, especially when used on the face
Not suitable for conditions like rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or eczema, where the skin needs breathable, non-irritating ingredients
So… Should You Use It?
Beef tallow may have a place in body care or on severely dry, intact skin with no active breakouts—but I do not recommend it as a go-to facial moisturizer, especially for:
Acne-prone skin
Reactive or sensitive skin
Clients with milia, rosacea, or seborrheic dermatitis
Those using actives like exfoliants, retinoids, or post-procedure care
Your face deserves ingredients that are barrier-supportive, but also breathable and clinically safe. If you're looking for moisture support, there are far better options—like ceramides, squalane, and fatty acids that don’t carry the same pore-clogging risks.
The Glow Bottom Line
Just because something is "natural" doesn’t mean it’s right for your face.
Beef tallow may be trending, but skincare is not one-size-fits-all. Want personalized guidance based on your skin type and current routine? I’ve got you — book a consult or DM me anytime.
Stay glowing,
Diana
Founder, Good Glow Skin Therapy
