Is the secret to glowing skin hiding in the butcher shop? Tallow skincare has been making a splash in the natural beauty world, with fans raving about its rich, skin-loving benefits. For some, it’s a moisturising miracle straight from the farm; for others, the idea of putting beef fat on your face feels more “Sunday roast” than skincare routine. So, is this the holy grail of hydration or just another fleeting fad? Let’s have a nosy.
From Farm to Face: The Return of Animal-Based Skincare
Animal fats in beauty products might sound a bit... Victorian. But truth be told, they’ve never fully left the skincare scene. Today, ingredients like tallow, lanolin, and beeswax are enjoying a quiet revival in the world of natural and traditional skincare.
Tallow—also known as rendered beef or lamb fat—is especially beloved in handmade moisturisers and artisan soaps thanks to its uncanny resemblance to our own skin oils (or sebum, for the skincare purists). It’s also rich in essential vitamins your skin will absolutely lap up.
But tallow isn’t the only animal-derived star. Lanolin, sourced from sheep’s wool (think of it as a sheep’s cuddle in cream form), is commonly found in lip balms, face creams, mascaras, and creamy foundations.
These ingredients are undeniably nourishing, but not vegan-friendly—and they often spark conversation around ethical skincare and sustainable ingredient sourcing.
Tallow in the Spotlight: Is It the Best Natural Moisturiser?
If you’ve dipped your toe into the world of natural skincare, chances are you’ve come across the buzz about tallow balm. Some people swear it’s the best thing they’ve ever slathered on their face. Others… not so keen on rubbing what sounds suspiciously like leftover roast onto their cheeks.
So, is tallow a miracle natural moisturiser for dry skin, or just another beauty trend riding the Instagram algorithm?
What is Tallow in Skincare?
Tallow is made by gently heating animal fat (typically beef or lamb) to extract the pure, nutrient-rich oil. Once cooled, it becomes a creamy, balm-like consistency that’s been used for centuries—not just in skincare, but in cooking, candle-making, and even healing salves.
Why does it work so well on skin? Because its composition closely mimics our own natural oils, making it incredibly compatible and deeply hydrating—especially when sourced from grass-fed animals.
The Benefits of Tallow Skincare
If you’re curious about why tallow is gaining fans, here are some of its biggest perks:
1. Deep Hydration for Dry Skin - Tallow is rich in fatty acids that mirror those in human skin, making it ideal for dry, flaky, or sensitive skin types.
2. Packed with Skin-Loving Vitamins - Naturally full of vitamins A, D, E, and K—essential for skin repair, elasticity, and glow.
3. Simple, Whole Ingredients - Most tallow face balms are made without synthetic additives, parabens, or preservatives.
4. Sustainability (When Done Right) - When sourced ethically, tallow makes use of what would otherwise be waste in the meat industry.
The Drawbacks of Tallow in Skincare
1. Let’s keep it real - it’s not for everyone:
2. Not Vegan-Friendly - If you follow a plant-based lifestyle, this one's a no-go.
3. Thick Texture and Meaty Scent - It’s balm-like and rich, which is great for dry skin but may feel too heavy for oily types. The natural scent (even masked) can be a dealbreaker for some.
4. Quality Matters - Look for grass-fed, ethically sourced tallow to get the skin benefits without compromise.
5. May Clog Pores - Those with acne-prone or oily skin should patch test—just to be safe.
6. Environmental Concerns - While tallow can be sustainable when small-scale and local, large-scale livestock farming has its environmental downsides (emissions, water usage, land impact).
7. Limited Availability - Tallow skincare tends to be found online or through artisan makers—and isn’t usually budget-friendly.
So, Is Tallow Skincare for You?
Look, we get it—tallow has a bit of a fan club. But if the thought of rubbing roast dinner on your face gives you pause, you’re not alone. Some skin types might love it, but if you’re more into your skincare being plant-based, featherlight, and 100% animal-free, we’ve got you.
There’s no need to dip into the butcher’s bowl to get that dewy, nourished glow. Our Eternal Face Cream delivers all the rich hydration, glow-boosting goodness, and skin-loving vitamins—without any bovine business. It’s like a hug for your face, straight from the garden. 🌿💚
Final Thoughts on Tallow in Beauty Products
Tallow might not be the next big thing for everyone—but it’s earned its place in the spotlight for fans of traditional skincare and natural moisturising creams. Whether you’re in the tallow camp or sticking to your plant-based favourites, the important thing is finding what works best for your skin.
🛍 Product Mention: Eternal Face Cream by Olive & Joyce
Looking for a deeply hydrating, plant-powered moisturiser with no animal byproducts? Our Eternal Face Cream is packed with botanical goodness and designed to work in harmony with your skin’s natural balance—no cows involved. 🐄💚