Breaking Down the Buzz: What You Really Need to Know About Skincare Trends Like Beef Tallow

by Ida Chorney

The skincare world is always evolving—and sometimes exploding—with buzzy new trends. One of the most talked-about (and controversial) lately? Beef tallow skincare. If you’ve been wondering whether this natural, animal-based ingredient is the miracle your skin’s been waiting for—or just another overhyped fad—you’re not alone.

As an esthetician and skincare educator, I’m here to break it all down for you with facts, science, and a sprinkle of real talk. Let's take a closer look at what tallow is, why it’s trending, and whether it belongs in your skincare routine.

What Is Tallow, Anyway?

Tallow is rendered beef fat, often sourced from grass-fed cows. It’s been used for centuries in traditional skincare remedies because of its high content of fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E, and K, and its similarity to the structure of human sebum (your skin’s natural oils).

The logic? Tallow is thought to nourish the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and help with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

But here’s the thing: just because something is natural doesn’t automatically mean it’s right for your skin type or concerns.

Is Tallow Good for Your Skin?

Like most skincare topics, the answer depends on your individual skin needs, lifestyle, and product formulation.

Pros:

  • Naturally rich in nutrients that support skin barrier repair
  • May help very dry, cracked, or compromised skin
  • Emollient texture that mimics skin’s natural oils

Cons:

  • Comedogenic for some: Can clog pores and trigger breakouts in acne-prone or oily skin
  • Animal-derived: Not suitable for vegan skincare routines
  • Often lacks the stability, pH balance, and clinical testing of professional skincare products

Want the Real Tea? 🎧

If you're curious about tallow—or just want to hear professional estheticians weigh in on the trend—you have to listen to this episode:

🎧 "The Devil Wears Beef Tallow" by ASCP Esty Talk Podcast

Hosted by Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP), this episode is packed with insight, science, and candid conversation. It’s a must-listen if you're serious about skincare knowledge.

👉 Start listening here:
 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | ASCP Esty Talk

Ida’s Pro Insight: What I Recommend Instead

While I’m all for a back-to-basics approach, I prioritize ingredients that are clinically tested, safe for sensitive skin, and sustainably sourced.

✨ If you’re dealing with:

  • Pigmentation
  • Redness or irritation
  • Congestion or acne
  • Fine lines or dullness

… then you’ll want to explore professional-grade products like Sorella’s Facial in a Bottle (a plant-based retinol alternative), or Pure Fiji’s nourishing serums and oils—formulated with your skin’s long-term health in mind.

Glow Girl Guidance

Skincare trends come and go. But your skin deserves knowledge-based care, not a trending TikTok ingredient with no evidence behind it. Focus on barrier repair, hydration, sun protection, and active ingredients that work for you—and if you’re unsure, book a consultation with your trusted esthetician (hi, that’s me 💁🏼♀️).

Got more questions about tallow or another skincare trend? Slide into my DMs or schedule a skin consultation—I’m always happy to break it down for you.

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