In the ever-evolving world of skincare, social media platforms are often the birthplace of viral beauty trends. One of the latest? Slathering beef tallow—the rendered fat of cows—on your face in the name of “ancestral skincare.” While the idea of using animal fat on skin is not new (it dates back centuries), the beef tallow skincare trend as a modern solution for dryness, acne, and even anti-aging has dermatologists raising their eyebrows—and for good reason.
As a board-certified dermatologist, I’ve seen a surge in patients asking whether beef tallow is a safe and effective option for their skin. My short answer: no, it’s not advisable, and in many cases, it may actually make skin conditions worse. Let’s break down what beef tallow is, why people are using it, and why it may not be the skin savior it’s claimed to be. I’ll also offer dermatologist-approved, evidence-based alternatives—like ERLY’s gentle, hypoallergenic skincare line—that deliver real results without the risk.
What Is Beef Tallow Skincare?
Beef tallow is rendered fat, typically from the kidney and abdominal area of a cow. It’s solid at room temperature and often used in cooking or traditional soap-making. Advocates for topical tallow application claim it is “biocompatible” with human skin, meaning its composition is supposedly similar to our own skin’s sebum. This claim is used to justify its use as a moisturizer or treatment for eczema, acne, or sensitive skin.
Many DIY influencers are touting tallow balms—often mixed with essential oils—as miracle cures for skin irritation, dryness, and even rosacea. But just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin.
Why Tallow Isn't a Safe Skincare Solution
1. It’s Not Sterile—and That’s a Problem
Tallow is not produced in sterile environments, especially in homemade or small-batch formulations. Applying an animal by-product that hasn’t been properly purified or tested to broken, inflamed, or acne-prone skin can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
2. It Can Clog Pores
Beef tallow is occlusive—it creates a seal on the skin, which can be beneficial in some contexts. However, it’s also comedogenic for many people, meaning it can trap oil, dirt, and bacteria beneath the skin’s surface and lead to clogged pores and breakouts, especially in acne-prone individuals.
3. No Clinical Evidence
There are no robust, peer-reviewed dermatological studies supporting the efficacy of tallow for treating skin conditions. While anecdotal evidence may sound convincing, science-based skincare should rely on ingredients with proven safety profiles and clinical testing. Tallow simply doesn’t meet that standard.
4. Essential Oils Can Add Risk
Many tallow balms are mixed with essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil. These can be potent allergens or irritants, particularly in sensitive skin types. Combined with an unrefined animal fat base, the risk of irritation or allergic reaction increases significantly.
5. Ethical and Sustainability Concerns
While some promote tallow as a “waste-free” or “sustainable” ingredient, ethical concerns remain for vegan and vegetarian consumers, or those with sensitivities to animal-derived products. There are many plant-based, lab-tested alternatives that don’t raise these concerns.
So What Should You Use Instead?
Rather than using an unregulated, untested, and potentially pore-clogging ingredient like beef tallow, I recommend turning to modern formulations that are backed by science and designed to support the skin barrier without irritation. This is especially important for sensitive skin, eczema-prone individuals, or those managing acne and inflammation.
Enter ERLY, a skincare line designed with the dermatologist’s checklist in mind: gentle, effective, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free. Here are products I frequently recommend in place of the beef tallow skincare trend:
1. ERLY Night Moisturizer with Peptides
Instead of coating your skin in animal fat, nourish it with a clinically sound combination of skin-strengthening peptides and antioxidant-rich vitamin E. This moisturizer supports collagen health and hydration without clogging pores. It contains no fragrance, harsh preservatives, or irritants—making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
Why it works: Peptides signal the skin to repair itself and boost elasticity, while vitamin E provides antioxidant protection and soothes inflammation. The formula is lightweight, yet moisturizing enough to support the skin barrier overnight.
2. ERLY Daily Splash with Triple Hyaluronic Acid
One of the reasons people are turning to beef tallow is the need for deep hydration. ERLY’s Daily Splash does this better, using three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into the skin at multiple layers. Unlike tallow, it hydrates without suffocating your pores.
Why it works: Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the skin and is known for its water-binding ability. This formulation delivers long-lasting hydration and a dewy glow—without the greasy residue.
3. ERLY Daily Soothe Serum with Niacinamide
Many people using tallow are hoping to soothe irritated skin or reduce redness. ERLY Daily Soothe uses niacinamide, a dermatologist-favorite ingredient with robust clinical backing. It helps reduce inflammation, calm redness, refine pores, and even out tone—all without clogging the skin.
Why it works: Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is suitable for all skin types and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier while reducing sensitivity. It’s a much safer, scientifically validated option compared to animal fat.
A Gentle, Balanced Approach Always Wins
Skincare trends like the beef tallow craze reflect a growing interest in simplicity and “natural” solutions, which is understandable. But nature doesn’t always mean safer—or better. Your skin deserves formulations that are tested, science-backed, refined, and designed with both safety and effectiveness in mind.
Instead of experimenting with outdated remedies rooted in anecdote, lean into brands like ERLY that prioritize skin health through evidence-based ingredients. You don’t have to compromise on hydration, barrier support, or radiance to avoid harsh actives or irritants. ERLY was created for exactly that purpose: to make skincare uncomplicated, inclusive, and effective for all ages and skin types.
Final Thoughts
The beef tallow skincare trend is a perfect example of how internet skincare advice can veer off track. While it may sound rustic and appealing in a “back to basics” kind of way, the dermatologic truth is that there are safer, smarter, and more effective ways to nourish your skin.
Don’t gamble with unregulated, comedogenic animal fats. Your skin will thank you for choosing dermatologist-tested, science-driven skincare—and your future self will thank you for supporting your barrier, not suffocating it.
