Benefits of tallow for skin

Tallow has gained popularity in skincare recently, particularly in natural and traditional remedies. In an age of trendy superfoods and exotic oils, this traditional fat has been quietly making a comeback.

While it might sound unconventional, tallow is making waves in the beauty industry for its remarkable skin-nourishing properties. Forget about synthetic moisturisers and complex formulations – sometimes, the best beauty solutions are the simplest and most natural.

From deep moisturising to anti-aging properties, this ancestral beauty aid is proving that what's old is new again. We’ll explain below why we are obsessed with tallow and think it’s the next big thing in natural skin care.

What is beef tallow?

Beef tallow is a rendered form of beef fat. It's made by slowly heating fatty portions of beef until the fat melts, then straining out any solid bits.

As it cools, this purified fat solidifies into a silky-smooth, butter-like substance. The rendering process creates a shelf-stable product with various uses, including cooking, soap-making and candle production.

It can also be whipped, which makes it easier to apply to skin.

Why we love tallow for skincare

Tallow forms a semi-occlusive layer on the skin. This barrier helps to lock in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors like pollution and harsh weather. It's particularly useful in cold or windy conditions where the skin is prone to drying out.

Tallow is rich in oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, which are excellent emollients. These fatty acids help to replenish the skin's lipid barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping skin supple.

This can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin.

Is tallow similar to sebum?

Our human skin oil (sebum) and tallow are both made up of around 55% saturated fats (human skin is 57.5% triglycerides and fatty acids, 26% wax esters and 12% squalene, a lipid).

This similarity means that tallow is more readily absorbed by the skin, potentially making it more effective than some plant-based oils. It may help regulate the skin's natural oil production, beneficial for both dry and oily skin types.

Is tallow anti-inflammatory?

Some studies suggest that the fatty acids in tallow, particularly conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), have anti-inflammatory properties. This could help soothe skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or general redness and irritation.

Tallow contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin A can help with cell turnover and may improve the appearance of fine lines. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that can protect against free radical damage. Vitamins D and K contribute to overall skin health and may help with issues like dark circles.

Benefits of tallow for aging skin

The combination of fatty acids and vitamins in tallow may help support collagen production and skin elasticity. This could potentially reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.

1. Suitable for sensitive skin: Being a single-ingredient, natural product, tallow is less likely to contain irritants or allergens found in some commercial skincare products. This makes it a potential option for those with sensitive skin or allergies to common skincare ingredients.
2. Versatility: Tallow can be used on its own as a moisturiser or incorporated into various skincare products. It's often used in balms, soaps, lotions, and even as a base for homemade cosmetics. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for those interested in natural or DIY skincare.
3. Sustainability: Using tallow in skincare can be seen as a way to reduce waste from meat production. This rendered beef fat, once a staple in kitchens across the UK, fell out of favour due to misguided health concerns. By utilising this by-product, it potentially offers a more sustainable alternative to some plant-based oils that require dedicated land and resources to produce.

Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist, told the Huffington Post, “As you age, the skin produces less of certain lipids, which can lead to volume loss, skin dullness and laxity accentuating the signs of aging. Topical lipids (or fats) can support the deeper skin structures as they hydrate the skin and improve skin barrier function.”

Benefits of tallow for eczema

Tallow may offer several benefits for people with eczema. Here's how it could potentially help:

1. Moisturising properties: Tallow's rich fatty acid content can deeply hydrate the skin, which is crucial for managing eczema's dryness and itchiness.
2. Barrier function: It can help strengthen the skin's natural barrier, potentially reducing irritation and preventing moisture loss.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: The fatty acids in tallow, particularly conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), may help reduce inflammation associated with eczema flare-ups.
4. Gentle on sensitive skin: Being a natural, single-ingredient product, tallow is less likely to contain irritants that could trigger eczema symptoms.
5. Vitamin content: The fat-soluble vitamins in tallow, especially vitamin A and E, may support skin healing and protect against oxidative stress.
6. Similarity to skin lipids: Tallow's composition resembles human sebum, potentially making it more compatible with our skin's natural oils.
7. Soothing properties: Many users report that tallow helps calm itchy, irritated skin associated with eczema.
8. Long-lasting moisture: Tallow tends to stay on the skin longer than some lighter moisturisers, providing extended hydration.
9. Potential antimicrobial properties: Some studies suggest tallow may have mild antimicrobial effects, which could be beneficial as eczema-prone skin is more susceptible to infections.

Best tallow for skin

When choosing the best tallow for skin use, consider the following factors:

1. Source: Grass-fed and organic beef tallow is often considered superior due to its higher nutrient content and lower risk of contaminants.
2. Purity: Look for tallow that's been rendered and filtered to remove impurities.
3. Processing: Cold-processed or low-heat rendered tallow may retain more nutrients.
4. Additives: Some prefer pure tallow, while others may choose products with added ingredients like essential oils.
5. Texture: Whipped tallow may be easier to apply than solid tallow.

It's worth noting that while many people report positive results from using tallow in skincare, scientific research specifically on tallow's skincare benefits is limited. As with any new skincare product, it's advisable to patch test first and consult a dermatologist if you have any skin concerns.