Beef Tallow for Skin Care: What Dermatologists Want You to Know
Safety, benefits and risks behind viral skin care trend
Safety, benefits and risks behind viral skin care trend
Beef tallow has gained renewed attention as a skin care ingredient in recent years, driven by growing interest in simpler, more traditional skin care routines.
Tallow is rendered beef fat and it was commonly used for both personal and household care long before modern skin care products existed. Today, it is being rediscovered through social media and wellness communities, where it is often praised for its rich texture and moisturizing feel.
Dermatologists and skin care experts caution, however, that beef tallow is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While it may be tolerated for some skin types, it can trigger irritation or breakouts in others, making it better suited for certain individuals than for widespread use.
“For people with really dry skin and no history of breakouts, a small amount may be tolerated,” says E. Victor Ross, MD, director of laser and cosmetic dermatology at Scripps Clinic Carmel Valley. “However, those with acne-prone skin, oily skin or sensitive skin should be careful as they are more likely to experience pore clogging or breakouts.”
Why tallow is trending in skin care
Beef tallow has surged in popularity as more people look for simpler, “natural” skin care routines. It is widely available, easy to render and stays solid at room temperature, making it practical for balms, creams and salves.
Compared with softer animal fats, tallow also has a firmer texture and tends to stay stable longer when properly prepared.
“Tallow is mostly made of fatty acids found in the skin’s natural barrier,” Dr. Ross says. “That similarity is why some people believe it can help moisturize dry skin.”
It’s also heavily promoted in paleo and ancestral wellness communities, where it’s often framed as a minimalist alternative to modern moisturizers. Many consumers like that tallow-based products can be just one ingredient: beef fat.
Still, dermatologists note that many modern moisturizers deliver similar moisture-sealing benefits, often with added skin-supporting ingredients and more rigorous safety testing.
Safety concerns dermatologists emphasize
While there may be potential benefits, dermatologists urge caution, especially for facial use.
Risk of pore clogging
One of the biggest concerns is pore clogging. Beef tallow is thick and can clog pores for many people, especially those with acne-prone skin. Trapped oil can cause blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts.
Not ideal for all skin types
Skin types vary widely. While beef tallow may feel soothing on very dry skin, it can aggravate acne, rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis. People with oily or combination skin may find tallow too heavy or occlusive, which may increase the risk of clogged pores.
“Tallow can clog pores in some people,” Dr. Ross says. “That makes it a poor choice for those with acne-prone or oily skin.”
Lack of regulation and testing
Unlike mainstream skin care products, many tallow products are made by small brands or individuals. They may not undergo microbial testing, stability testing or dermatologist review.
A board-certified dermatologist would typically caution against applying untested animal fat to facial skin, especially near the eyes.
Risk of contamination
Improperly rendered or stored beef fat can spoil or grow bacteria. Even clean-smelling tallow may not be sterile, which poses risks for broken or sensitive skin.
Ethical and lifestyle concerns
Beef tallow comes from animal fat. It may not align with vegans or plant-based lifestyles, which can be an important factor for some consumers.
Beef tallow vs. modern skincare products
Modern skin care products are often dismissed as “chemical,” but that’s misleading. Dermatologist-developed formulas are designed to be:
- Non-comedogenic or formulated not to clog pores
- pH-balanced
- Preserved against bacteria and mold
- Tested for stability and skin compatibility
Plant-based oils like jojoba, squalane and sunflower seed oil provide similar fatty acids. They also have a lower risk of clogging pores.
Beef tallow may feel luxurious, but it lacks the refinement, testing and customization available in modern skin care.
Who should avoid beef tallow for skin care?
Dermatologists generally advise avoiding beef tallow for skin if you have:
- Acne-prone skin
- Oily or combination skin
- A history of clogged pores or cystic acne
- Sensitive or reactive skin
- Active breakouts or skin infections
- A recent laser or other procedure where the skin is abraded (surface scraped) or left exposed to the elements
Some people with eczema or very dry skin find short-term relief from heavy products like tallow. However, dermatologists urge caution.
“For chronic skin conditions, it’s important to use treatments that are well-studied and recommended by a health care professional,” Dr. Ross says. “Patch testing or applying a small amount to one spot for a day or two is essential to watch for any redness, itching, burning or bumps. If you see any irritation stop using it.”
How to use tallow more safely (if you choose to)
If you’re planning to try beef tallow for your skin, follow these safety tips:
- Use only a small amount — about the size of a pea or less
- Apply to clean, dry skin
- Avoid areas prone to acne
- Do not use on broken or inflamed skin
- Stop using right away if you get breakouts
- Check the ingredient label for purity and sourcing
Many dermatologists recommend using tallow only on body skin, not on the face, since it can be more likely to clog pores on facial skin. If you choose to try it, it’s generally best reserved for dry, rough areas like the hands, elbows, knees or heels.
Play it safe
Beef tallow isn’t harmful, but it’s not a miracle moisturizer either. Most of its popularity comes from wellness trends, not strong science. Some people with very dry skin may feel short-term softness. However, it can also cause issues like clogged pores and breakouts, especially on the face.
That’s why dermatologists typically recommend sticking with proven, science-backed moisturizers instead of DIY animal-fat products, particularly if your goal is to prevent signs of aging, manage acne or support long-term skin health.
“In skin care, natural doesn’t always mean better and trending doesn’t always mean safe,” Dr. Ross says.