Beef tallow—once known mainly for cooking—is now popping up in skincare routines. But should you really put beef fat on your face? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of beef tallow for skin so you can decide if it’s right for you.
PRO | Deeply Moisturizing
Beef tallow is rich in natural fatty acids like oleic acid and palmitic acid, which are similar to the oils our skin naturally produces. That means it absorbs easily and helps lock in moisture—perfect for dry, flaky, or sensitive skin
con | Can Feel Heavy
Tallow is very rich and thick, so it might feel greasy or pore-clogging—especially for those with naturally oily or acne-prone skin. It’s best used in small amounts.
pro | Rich in Nutrients
Grass-fed beef tallow contains skin-loving vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which support skin healing, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy glow.
con | Scent Can Be Off-Putting
Unrefined tallow can have a mild beefy scent, though this is usually masked with essential oils in most skincare products. This is especially enhanced around heat like hot tubs or steamers.
pro | Supports Skin Barrier Repair
Tallow helps nourish and strengthen the skin barrier, making it ideal for people with eczema, psoriasis, or compromised skin from over-exfoliation or harsh products.
con | Quality Matters
Not all tallow is created equal. Only grass-fed, organic, and properly rendered tallow has the skin benefits. Poor-quality or contaminated tallow could do more harm than good.
Like with most things you have to weigh out the benefits and choose what is best for you. Beef tallow might sound odd at first, but for many, it’s a simple, effective, and natural moisturizer. It’s especially helpful for dry, sensitive, or mature skin—but it’s not for everyone. If you're curious, patch test a small area first and see how your skin reacts.
Would you try beef tallow skincare? Let us know your thoughts.
