Controversial skincare craze: Beef tallow's claimed benefits versus reality

Controversial skincare craze: Beef tallow's claimed benefits versus reality

Going au naturel with beef tallow for skincare: It's the latest trend some are jumping on, claiming it can make your skin look clearer, all while feeling gloriously moisturized. Sounds like an offer you can't resist? Let's dig in and find out the real deal.

Tallow is derived from slowly rendered animal fat and strained, then hardened into a waxy paste. For centuries, all sorts of animal fats (think swans, goats, and even lions) have been used in cosmetics. Now, in 2025, it's beef tallow grabbing the spotlight on social media platforms like TikTok.

Brands such as Good Ol' Days Tallow Co., Evil Goods!, Betr4you, and HolyCow are showing up in countless videos promoting their products. Even aggregators like @ItsColleensShop extol the virtues of tallow, claiming "If you can't eat your skincare, then you shouldn't be putting it on your face."

Some enthusiasts believe that tallow is a superior, natural skincare choice. But, do these claims hold water? Let's break it down.

The Claim: Tallow is the miracle cure for glowing, youthful skin.

The Evidence: Tallow does have a high lipid content, which can temporarily make the skin look plump and dewy. However, products like shea butter and olive oil also contain lipids that offer the same effect.

"Tallow isn't any different than other plant oils out there," says Marisa Plescia, vice president of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and founder FemChem Beauty.

While great for an immediate pick-me-up, tallow loses some shine compared to commercially-formulated skincare products. They generally contain humectants such as glycerine and hyaluronic acid, which prevent moisture loss and can keep the skin hydrated for longer periods.

The Risks: Even though some claim tallow has cleared their complexion, using beef fat could lead to acne breakouts and clogged pores. Additionally, due to its lipid content, it can cause allergic reactions, similar to how some people react to jewelry containing nickel.

Those with conditions like psoriasis or eczema should proceed with caution, given their compromised skin barriers. Patch tests are recommended to prevent unpleasant reactions.

Then there's the issue of rancid tallow, which stinks and can cause skin irritation. Keep it in the fridge to avoid spoilage.

What's driving the trend: In today's world, where synthetic beauty products seem like a bewildering chemical cocktail, tallow appears as a refreshingly natural alternative. Its popularity is also fueled by a cultural skepticism of synthetic ingredients.

But, before you dive headfirst into the world of tallow skincare, remember that while it might seem a simpler solution, it's not without its risks. And avoid being swayed by claims that tallow is better just because it seems "natural."

According to Jennifer Reich, a sociologist at the University of Colorado Denver, relying on unproven, natural skincare products can lead to uninformed decisions or even dangerous outcomes—like drinking unpasteurized milk or trying unproven medical treatments.

If you want to steer clear of dubious ingredients, consult a dermatologist for personalized skincare advice. They'll help you choose the right products, keeping your skin healthy and shining like never before.

1. The emerging trend of using beef tallow in skincare, such as products from Good Ol' Days Tallow Co., Evil Goods!, Betr4you, HolyCow, and sellers like @ItsColleensShop, is being driven by the preference for natural alternatives in the current world where synthetic beauty products are often perceived as a confusing chemical cocktail.
2. Despite the claims that tallow can be a miracle cure for glowing, youthful skin, its benefits are comparable to those of other plant oils like shea butter and olive oil, suggesting that it's not significantly different or superior in this regard.
3. While tallow can provide a temporary plump and dewy appearance to the skin due to its high lipid content, it may pose certain risks such as acne breakouts, clogged pores, allergic reactions, and skin irritation, particularly for individuals with conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
4. Instead of relying solely on trendy, natural skincare products like tallow, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized skincare advice to ensure the chosen products are safe, effective, and best suited for maintaining healthy, shining skin.

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