Tallow Skincare

Tallow balm and tallow moisturizer from small-batch makers: grass-fed tallow skincare with simple ingredient lists, in a few scents and sizes.

Why people use beef tallow on skin

Tallow is rendered animal fat, and it has been used in balms and soaps for centuries. Its fatty-acid makeup is similar to the oils your skin produces, which is why fans find it absorbs well and leaves dry skin feeling soft without a long ingredient list. The balms here are built on tallow (mostly grass-fed beef, plus bison and lamb options), usually with honey, olive oil, beeswax or essential oils. Read our full guide to beef tallow for skin for the evidence and how to patch test.

Choosing a tallow balm

  • Sensitive skin or face use: start with an unscented balm, such as Balmy Tallow Unscented Tallow Balm, available in 2 oz and 4 oz. Essential oils can irritate reactive skin.
  • Whipped vs. original texture: Grazly Whipped Bison Tallow & Manuka Honey Balm is airy and spreads easily. Grazly Original Tallow & Manuka Honey Balm is denser and heavier, for very dry patches.
  • Scented balms: Balmy Tallow's Eucalyptus Rose, Golden Grove (sandalwood, orange and vanilla) and Lemon Lavender (made with lamb tallow). Each comes in 2 oz and 4 oz.
  • Wagyu tallow: Balmy Tallow's Vanilla Wagyu Tallow Balm is our most luxurious option, made with Wagyu beef tallow and manuka honey.
  • Lips: Peppermint Tallow Lip Balm, made with tallow, beeswax and raw honey.
  • Underarms: Citrus Vanilla Tallow Deodorant, aluminum-free. Find more in natural deodorant.
  • Evenings: tallow balms with magnesium, such as the Magnesium Bedtime Balm and the Grazly Dead Sea Magnesium & Tallow Balm, live in our magnesium collection.

How to use tallow balm

  • A little goes a long way. Warm a pea-sized amount between your fingertips until it melts.
  • Press into slightly damp skin after cleansing, morning or night.
  • Patch test on your inner arm for 24 hours before using on your face, especially if you are prone to clogged pores.
  • Store away from heat. Tallow softens in warm rooms, which is normal.

Shop by brand

Balmy Tallow and Grazly.

Questions

Is beef tallow good for your skin?

Many people with dry skin like it because its fats are similar to the skin's own oils, and it works as a rich moisturizer. Research on tallow specifically is limited, so patch test first and see how your skin responds.

Does tallow balm clog pores?

It can for some people, particularly those with oily or acne-prone skin. Start with a small amount, try it on a small area first, and use it at night if you are unsure.

What is the difference between whipped and regular tallow balm?

Whipped tallow balm has air whipped into it, so it is lighter and spreads more easily. Regular or original balm is denser and feels heavier and more occlusive.

What is wagyu tallow?

It is tallow rendered from Wagyu cattle. It is used the same way as other tallow balms and is positioned as a premium option.

Can I use tallow balm on my face every day?

Many people do, as a moisturizer after cleansing. Use a thin layer, choose unscented if your skin is sensitive, and stop if you notice irritation or breakouts.

Does tallow balm smell like beef?

Well-rendered tallow has very little scent. Unscented balms may smell faintly fatty, and the scented balms are perfumed with essential oils.