Beef Tallow for Skin: Is it Good or Bad?

Beef tallow is the latest skincare trend gaining traction on Tik Tok, where enthusiasts are hailing it as a natural solution for various skin concerns. From claims of deep hydration to soothing irritated skin, beef tallow has sparked curiosity and debate. The question is - is it truly effective? And more importantly, is it safe?

While DIY skincare fans praise its benefits, dermatologists remain divided on whether this animal-derived ingredient belongs in your skincare routine. In this post, we’ll explore what beef tallow is, break down beef tallow ingredients and examine whether it’s truly safe, according to skincare professionals. 

What is beef tallow?

Beef tallow is a rendered form of fat derived from cows. It sounds scary, we know... Tallow is a whiteish substance that is solid at room temperature. Beef tallow is used for cooking at high temperatures such as roasting or deep frying, it also has a rich history in traditional applications such as soap-making, candle production and even some skincare products.

It recently gained popularity after it popped on the the Netflix TV series, The Perfect Couple. 

What dermatologists say?

Benefits of beef tallow for skin

The purported benefits of beef tallow for the skin include

• Combatting acne - The vitamins and fats in tallow are said to mimic the skin’s natural oils, helping to repair and protect the skin's barrier from external aggressors. This could potentially lead to softer, more resilient skin over time.
• Enhancing hydration - Tallow is rich in cholesterol and fatty acids, which help strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture. This makes it particularly appealing for people with dry or sensitive skin.
• Improving skin barrier function - According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, beef tallow contains cholesterol and fatty vitamins, which may support skin barrier function. Enthusiasts also suggest it can improve skin elasticity and clarity.
• Anti-ageing effects - Some enthusiasts claim that the vitamins found in tallow, such as A, D, and E, can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While there is limited scientific evidence, these nutrients are known for their role in skin health.

Risk & side effects

Although beef tallow is an organic ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and conditions and it comes with potential downsides.

• Comedogenic nature: Dr. Liu highlights that beef tallow is highly comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores and lead to breakouts, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. 
• Lack of regulation: DIY tallow products may not meet quality standards, and is not approved by ACCC or FDA which may lead to allergic reactions.
• Limited research: There are many claims about Beef Tallow for skin but insufficient scientific evidence to back most of the claims. Until more research is conducted, dermatologists advise using these ingredients cautiously mentions Campbell a skin expert.

Additionally, questions about beef tallow side effects remain up in the air. Potential issues, such as clogged pores or irritation for sensitive skin types, suggest that caution should be exercised before incorporating it into your daily routine!

Alternatives to beef tallow for face

For those seeking alternatives to beef tallow, dermatologists recommend proven ingredients that offer similar benefits without the potential downsides. 

Here are a few alternatives from esmi Skin Minerals:

• The Nourishing Moisturiser infused with shea butter provides intense hydration, promoting a supple and smooth complexion. This luxurious moisture-boosting cream will leave your skin feeling intensely nourished, smooth, and soft. Infused with 24k gold flakes to help increase skin's elasticity and boost circulation for strong, healthy, glowing skin. 
• The Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol is a great alternative that simulates collagen production. It is a lightweight oil-based serum that is a rich and potent source of antioxidants that will protect your skin against environmental damage.
  

In the end, using Beef Tallow skincare or approved products is a choice you can make. As always, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or chat to our Skin Service team when exploring new skincare trends!

To explore similar skincare topics, check out an older blog: Makeup That Is Good For Your Skin.