A middle-aged lady applying tallow to her face depicting the best tallow for skin

Best Tallow For Skin: Your Essential Guide (2025)

Using tallow for your skin may seem bizarre initially, but it’s what granny or great-granny would’ve used before plant-based skin products came about – she would’ve known what the best tallow for skin was. It’s the O.G. in skincare.

But why did we move away from using animal-based fats? And, was the move justified?

There are so many lotions and potions out there promising to solve our skin woes, endorsed by a celeb as the next best thing… it makes me cringe.

I see it with my wife all the time… “Popsey” – yes, that’s what she calls me… don’t ask – “I saw this stuff on Insta called Magic Moisturizer – it contains the essence of the Kaki Fruit. Taylor Swift says it’s the best she’s ever used and now wouldn’t use anything else. I must try it!”.

A few too many pennies later, she’s the proud owner of some overpriced gunk that’s really no different from any other stuff she has in her collection other than the branding – Let’s face it, the skincare world is more about marketing and branding than it is about the product itself.

Then, the dreaded breakouts and dry patches return at some point, and we start all over again. It’s a never-ending loop of revelation followed by disappointment.

All the while, I’m quietly using the same old tallow soap and tallow balm that I’ve used for years. Living life with no skin problems. The slight suggestion that she give it a go is scoffed at with a snipe of “You’re a guy; it’s different for you. You don’t understand”.

However, I do think the tide is turning. More and more women as well as men are returning to the original magic potion… tallow based skincare.

Why? Perhaps because it has only 3 to 4 ingredients, not a list as long as your arm as these modern products do. Plus, the properties of tallow fat are very similar to ours, meaning they work in harmony with our skin.

That’s why I wanted to bring you this roundup of the ‘Best Tallow for Skin.’

If you’re interested in other uses for beef tallow, I’ve listed over 65, some of which may surprise you.

What Are The Best Tallow for Skin Products

My life philosophy is about going back to basics. What would we have eaten, used, or done before this crazy modern world of human-made crap?

We forget this stuff wasn’t around 100 years ago, so what did we do back then? How the hell did we survive?

Probably just fine, I reckon. I’m not saying we need to go back to loin clothes and grunting at each other, but I think we’ve gone way off-piste regarding skincare. We apply all sorts of unnatural chemicals directly onto our skin.

If you’re here reading this, perhaps this has already crossed your mind. Or perhaps you’re in despair after trying so many products, and you’re ready to go back to straightforward, simple non-toxic skincare products such as tallow balms and creams.

Let’s dig in…

1. Best for Variety: Vintage Tradition – Tallow Balm

Vintage Tradition – Tallow Balm

Vintage Tradition specializes in natural tallow balm skincare products, emphasizing purity and traditional methods. They highlight their commitment to using 100% grass-fed cow tallow and organic ingredients, offering products like tallow balm, face serum, deodorant, lip balm, and soap.

Vintage Tradition prides itself on being the original creator of the term “Tallow Balm” for skin care, showcasing a product range designed for whole-body care, free from chemicals and GMOs. Their products are crafted with a focus on traditional nourishing and healing skincare practices.

Cost

Option 1:

  • Price per tub: $22.95
  • Size of tub: 2oz
  • Price per oz: $11.46

 Option 2:

  • Price per tub: $80.35
  • Size of tub: 9oz
  • Price per oz: $8.93

Shipping

  • Available Internationally
  • US shipping varies – USPS & UPS rates
  • International shipping varies – UPS rates

Fragrance Options

The following are priced at $28.95 for 2 oz & $99.95 for 9oz

Key Benefits

  • 100% grass-fed tallow
  • Certified organic cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
  • Therapeutic-grade pure essential oils
  • Glass jars
  • Chemical-free
  • GMO-free
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 10% discount on orders over $250 and 20% for $500
  • Rewards points for discounts
  • Small batch production
  • No chemicals

my take

Vintage Tradition

4.5/5

Vintage Tradition has led the way since 2010 so they know what they’re talking about. They offer an impressive range of tallow balms and other products, all of which come with a load of solid reviews.

If you’re looking for variety and a reliable, well-established tallow balm skincare provider, Vintage Tradition is for you.

Pros:
  • Well established company
  • Lots of fragrance options
  • Contains olive oil for therapeutic qualities
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Plastic lids can break

2. Best for Value: The Lady May – Whipped Tallow Skin Cream

The Lady May – Whipped Tallow Skin Cream

“The Lady May” is a versatile establishment in Historic Downtown Ocean Springs, blending culinary and skincare interests. Known for its restaurant serving quality food, it also ventures into skincare, offering products like whipped tallow cream.

Their approach reflects a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, combining culinary expertise with a passion for natural, nourishing skincare.

This unique blend of interests showcases their dedication to providing diverse, quality products both in their store and online, resonating with a broad customer base.

Cost

Option 1:

  • Price per jar: $19.00
  • Size of jar: 9oz
  • Price per oz: $2.11

Option 2:

  • Price per jar: $23.00
  • Size of jar: 16oz
  • Price per oz: $1.44

Option 3:

  • Price per jar: $26.00
  • Size of jar: 24oz
  • Price per oz: $1.08

Shipping

  • UPS rates
  • Free collection from the store in Downtown Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Fragrance Options

Unscented only

Key Benefits

  • 100% grass-fed cattle
  • Contains only tallow
  • Whipped, making it softer and fluffier
  • Small batch produced
  • Wet rendered for no odor
  • No additives

my take

The Lady May

5/5

The Lady May restaurant is well known for its amazing food and service, with raving reviews on Tripadvisor.

They started selling tallow as a cooking fat initially, then went on to provide high-quality tallow-based skincare products, and they’ve gone down a storm.

They’ve plenty of other options, too, such as Vanilla Bean Whipped Tallow, Tallow Skin Cream, Tallow Body Butter, and Tallow Balm.

So, if you’re looking for good, honest tallow skin cream, give them a go. Or even better, if you’re nearby, why not pop in, have a bite, and grab some on the way out?

Pros:
  • Fluffy and light
  • Odor-free
  • Glass jar – no plastics

Cons:

  • None

3. Best for Simplicity: Magic Tallow – Whipped Tallow Cream

Magic Tallow – Whipped Tallow Cream

Magic Tallow specializes in all-natural skincare products, specifically their 100% Grass-Fed Whipped Tallow Cream. Their tallow is sustainably sourced from local regenerative farms in Canada and is free from chemicals, GMOs, and other additives.

They blend this high-quality tallow with organic jojoba oil to create a nourishing skin cream. Magic Tallow emphasizes the traditional use of tallow in skincare, backed by its anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Suitable for all skin types, their products are crafted with simplicity and effectiveness in mind.

Cost

  • Price per jar: $30.00 (Blue Tansy $35.00)
  • Size of jar: 2 oz
  • Price per oz: $15.00

Shipping

Free U.S. shipping

Fragrance Options

  • Bare (unscented)
  • Sweet Mint
  • Vanilla Ylang Ylang
  • Blue Tansy

Key Benefits

  • 100% grass-fed
  • Sourced from Canadian regenerative farms
  • Contains organic Jojoba Oil
  • 100% pure, undiluted essential oils
  • No preservatives

my take

Magic Tallow

4/5

I love the simplicity of Magic Tallow. They have one product in 4 flavors, and that’s it.

They add Jojoba oil for an added silky feel. If you opt for one with a scent, try the Blue Tansy. As one review states, “The blue tansy smells divine.”

If you’re looking for a silky, high-quality tallow cream for all skin types, I recommend Magic Tallow.

Pros:
  • Free shipping
  • 4 fragrance options

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Plastic jars

4. Best with Beeswax: Krowa – Body Balm

Krowa – Body Balm

Krowa Beauty specializes in high-quality, natural skin care products featuring grass-fed tallow. Their offerings, made in small batches, are designed to be non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and free from gluten, soy, GMOs, and synthetic additives.

Emphasizing sustainability, Krowa sources its ingredients responsibly and uses pasture-raised practices. Their products aim to deliver hydration, improve skin elasticity, reduce inflammation, and rejuvenate with vitamins A, D, K, and E.

The brand’s commitment to purity and ethical standards is reflected in its skincare line, catering to various skin types and concerns.

Cost

  • Price per tub: $40.00
  • Size of tub: 6oz
  • Price per oz: $6.67

Shipping

Free-shipping

Fragrance Options

One option – Ho wood, vetiver, Himalayan cedarwood, rosemary, patchouli & blue tansy.

Key Benefits

  • 100% grass-fed tallow
  • Contains organic beeswax
  • It contains pure essential oils
  • Paraben, filler, and additive free
  • No synthetic chemicals or fragrances
  • Sustainably sourced ingredients
  • No filler oils
  • Small batch production
  • Money-back guarantee

my take

Krowa

4.5/5

What a great story where Barbara, AKA The Liver Queen, solves a problem the health care system couldn’t of her kids struggling with severe allergies.

Out of that, she created a small range of tallow-based skincare products for us all to enjoy. As well as the Body Balm, there’s Morning Face Balm and Night Face Balm.

Pros:
  • Free shipping
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • The earthy fragrance may not suit all

5. Best for Organic: Sun & Moo – The Simple One Tallow Balm

Sun & Moo – The Simple One Tallow Balm

Sun & Moo is a company that specializes in organic, small-batch beauty products, focusing on nourishing both the skin and soul. Their product range includes organic tallow-based skincare and hair care items.

They emphasize using organic ingredients and formulate their products to be suitable for all skin types. Proudly made in the USA by a family-owned company, their products are safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Sun & Moo’s offerings are popular, as evidenced by over 1000 5-star reviews, showcasing their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Cost

  • Price per tub: $34.00
  • Size of tub: 2oz
  • Price per oz: $17.00

Availability and shipping

  • Worldwide shipping

Fragrance options

  • Unscented

Key benefits

  • Just two ingredients
  • Organic 100% grass-fed tallow
  • Organic cold-pressed Jojoba oil
  • Rewards program for discounts
  • Family-owned company

my take

Sun & Moo

4.5/5

Sun & Moo has done a sterling job at providing completely organic products. So if going organic is a priority of you, then Sun & Moo is for you.

They have other interesting tallow-based skincare products also such as Age Reversing Tallow Balm, The Beautiful One, and The Healer among others.

Pros:
  • Lots of intriguing options
  • Glass jars

Cons:

  • Pricey

What is Beef Tallow?

Beef tallow is a traditional animal fat form widely used in cooking and skincare. It is specifically made from the fat of cows, offering a rich and versatile ingredient.

Origin and Extraction

Tallow comes from the fat of grass-fed cows. This fat, particularly the hard fat found around the loins and kidneys, is known as suet. Suet is rendered or slowly melted down to separate the fat from impurities. The result is a pure, stable rendered fat known as tallow.

Characteristics of Beef Tallow

Tallow is solid at room temperature and has a creamy texture. Its color ranges from white to pale yellow, depending on the diet of the cows and the rendering process. Renowned for its long shelf life, tallow can be stored for extended periods without refrigeration, thanks to its high content of saturated fats.

Nutritional Profile

Beef tallow is rich in saturated and monounsaturated fats. It contains vitamins like E and D, known for their skin-nourishing properties. The fatty acid profile of tallow is particularly beneficial, with significant amounts of stearic acid and oleic acid, which are known for their moisturizing and soothing effects on the skin.

I’ve written more about the tallow and how it can optimize your health. Take a look.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Tallow For Skin?

Tallow for skin is not just a traditional remedy but a science-backed game changer. It’s packed with vitamins like vitamin D and E, which help protect against free radical damage.

Essential fatty acids like conjugated linoleic acid and oleic acid deeply nourish the skin. Regular use of tallow can improve skin texture, offer relief from dryness, and maintain a healthy skin barrier, making it an excellent choice for aging skin or those with sensitive skin.

Let’s look at some of the benefits:

Harmony with Human Skin

Tallow’s composition is uniquely harmonious with human skin. The fatty acid profile of tallow closely mirrors that of the fats (sebum) naturally produced by our skin.

This similarity means that the skin readily absorbs and utilizes tallow, enhancing its ability to maintain hydration, elasticity, and integrity.

This harmonious relationship aids in keeping the skin soft, supple, and healthy, making tallow an ideal ingredient in skincare for most people, especially those with dry or aging skin.

Non-Comedogenic Properties

A standout feature of tallow cream is its non-comedogenic nature. Being non-comedogenic means it’s formulated in a way that it does not clog pores. This is crucial for maintaining clear skin, particularly for individuals prone to acne or oily skin.

Tallow’s unique molecular structure lets it nourish and moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy or greasy residue. This property makes tallow creams a suitable option even for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, offering hydration without the risk of exacerbating common skin concerns.

Vitamins for Skin Health

Tallow is naturally rich in vitamins essential for skin health, such as Vitamin E, Vitamin D, and conjugated linoleic acid.

Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging.

Vitamin D plays a critical role in skin tone and health, helping in the repair and rejuvenation of the skin. Conjugated linoleic acid, another key component, has anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in reducing redness and irritation.

These vitamins, combined with the fatty acids in tallow, contribute to its effectiveness in nourishing and maintaining the skin’s overall health and appearance.

Enhanced Skin Elasticity and Hydration

Tallow is not just a natural moisturizer; it’s a natural skin conditioner. The saturated fats and fatty acids in tallow, such as stearic and palmitic acids, are instrumental in improving skin elasticity.

These components help retain moisture, producing more hydrated, plumper, and youthful-looking skin. Regular use of tallow can lead to visibly softer and smoother skin, which is particularly beneficial for those with dry or aging skin.

Healing and Soothing Properties

Tallow contains natural healing properties, making it beneficial for repairing and soothing damaged or irritated skin. The anti-inflammatory fatty acids and vitamins in tallow aid in calming skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and minor rashes.

Its healing effects are also beneficial in reducing the appearance of scars and promoting the regeneration of healthy skin cells.

Natural Protection Barrier

One of the standout benefits of tallow is its ability to create a natural protective barrier on the skin. This barrier moisturizes and protects against environmental stressors such as wind, cold, and pollution.

This protective layer helps to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance and integrity, preventing dryness and irritation.

Compatibility with Sensitive Skin

Tallow is known for its compatibility with sensitive skin. Its gentle, natural composition makes it less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritations, which are common with synthetic ingredients in many other skincare products.

This makes tallow-based products a safe choice for individuals with sensitive skin or those who prefer to use hypoallergenic skincare.

How To Make Tallow Cream: The Basics

A piece of raw beef suet
A piece of raw grass-fed beef suet

If you’re up for a challenge and have the time, then why not make your own tallow for skin? It’s pretty easy to knock up tallow and add any other ingredients you want.

I’ve written a whole post about how to make beef tallow if you want to find out more.

Rendering Suet into Tallow

  1. Start with Suet: Obtain high-quality suet from grass-fed cows for the best quality tallow.
  2. Chop the Suet: Cut the suet into small pieces to speed up the melting process.
  3. Slow Cook: Place the chopped suet in a slow cooker on low heat. Let it melt slowly, which can take several hours. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
  4. Strain the Liquid: Once melted, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth to remove impurities.
  5. Cool Down: Let the strained liquid cool and solidify. This is your rendered tallow.

You can buy a pre-rendered grass-fed tallow if the above seems too much of a faff.

Making Basic Tallow Cream

  1. Melt Tallow: Gently melt the rendered tallow in a double boiler to avoid overheating.
  2. Cool to Solidify: Pour the melted tallow into a container. Let it cool and solidify at room temperature. You now have a basic tallow cream.

Enhancing Tallow Cream with Additional Ingredients

  1. Add Oils: To the melted tallow, add a few drops of jojoba oil, extra virgin olive oil, or any carrier oil you choose. These oils add extra moisturizing properties and make the cream easier to apply.
  2. Include Essential Oils: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils like lavender or tea tree for fragrance and additional benefits.
  3. Beeswax for Consistency: Add a small amount of beeswax to the melted tallow mixture for a firmer texture. It helps in stabilizing the cream, especially in warmer temperatures.
  4. Raw Honey for Hydration: Stir in a teaspoon of raw honey for its hydrating and antibacterial properties.

Creating Whipped Tallow Cream

  1. Chill the Cream: Before whipping, chill the tallow cream mixture in the refrigerator until it’s cool but not completely solid.
  2. Whip It Up: Use an electric mixer to whip the cooled cream. Beat it until it becomes light and fluffy, resembling whipped cream.
  3. Store Properly: Store the whipped tallow cream in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain its whipped consistency.

Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In Tallow Skincare Products

Navigating the world of tallow skincare products can be daunting.

First, prioritize grass-fed tallow for its superior quality. Check the label for natural ingredients – the fewer, the better.

Avoid products with artificial fragrances or preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. Look for balms and lotions that are described as non-comedogenic to ensure they won’t clog pores.

And lastly, consider the product’s shelf life; a longer shelf life often indicates a more natural, less processed product.

Conclusion

Let’s face it: the ultimate skincare product is tallow. It’s harmonious for human skin, helping to maintain optimal skin health.

It moisturizes and nourishes the skin, closely mimicking natural sebum. It’s rich in vitamins and fatty acids, offering hydration and protection, especially for dry and sensitive skin. And it’s suitable for any skin type.

I hope you’re now convinced to try using tallow for skin and ditch the highly processed modern-day skincare products. If you’ve been struggling with skin issues, this may be the answer you’ve been looking for.

That’s it… have a great day!

FAQs

Do dermatologists recommend tallow?

Many dermatologists are open to tallow as a natural moisturizing option, especially for those with extremely dry skin or conditions like eczema. Always consult your dermatologist before trying new skincare.

Is bison tallow better than beef tallow for skin?

Bison and beef tallow have similar benefits for skin, though some find bison has a “cleaner” scent. Try both to see which your skin responds to best.

What are the negative effects of tallow?

If you have an allergy to bovine products, tallow could cause irritation or breakouts. Start slowly and spot-test before fully integrating it into your skincare routine.

Is tallow good or bad for the skin?

Tallow is generally excellent for the skin when sourced ethically and minimally processed. It hydrates deeply while reducing inflammation and signs of aging. Those with very oily skin may still find it too rich.

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