Beef Tallow-What's in this questionable concoction?

What is Beef Tallow?

Plainly, beef tallow is made from beef fat. It has an oily and thick texture which is rich in triglycerides. It is used in many applications, popularly as a neutral cooking oil. It is also rich in many vitamins including Vitamins A, D, E and K. This intriguing product has sprouted much controversy, but is there truth behind the claims? Let’s investigate!

What is it used for?

Beef tallow has gained popularity as a supposed revolutionary moisturizer. People are buying pure beef tallow claiming it has single handedly changed their skin. Additionally, it is an ingredient in many skincare products. Beef tallow traditionally has been used in soaps, as a neutral cooking oil, along with many more applications. The universality and simplicity of the product sparks intrigue.

What do the studies say? 

I did find a study synthesizing information about beef tallow with regard to using it as a skincare product. The article found that beef tallow is biocompatible, and it contains a lipid matrix that is potentially useful for delivering water soluble ingredients. There are many possible applications for beef tallow, some of them being for drug delivery and medical treatments. There are studies done on beef tallow looking at the moisturizing properties but it seems there is no decisive answer to if it is best used on its own or as an ingredient in products. There is some speculation that it may be useful in oil portions of emulsions (a category in skincare products which allows water and oil products to stay mixed). Additionally, it is important to note that the moisturizing properties of tallow were compared to other oils such as pumpkin seed oil- which had superior moisturizing properties. Therefore, though beef tallow is moisturizing it is not leagues above other products and most likely sits somewhere in the middle. 

In an article by Vogue, a writer used beef tallow as a moisturizer and reported their findings. They saw large breakouts after a few days of using the product. This anecdotal opinion offers more insight into unbiasedly trying out the product without any financial ties. Due to the oiliness and consistency, it is perhaps not the best product to use for those with acne-prone skin. The Vogue article detailed similar information regarding the high Vitamin content, but the idea that it is likely not the miracle product we are looking for. 

Wrap Up:

It seems that much more research needs to be done to discover if beef tallow could be a worthwhile skincare product. It seems to irritate skin that is acne prone, and additionally may deter users due to the smell and oily feel. Beef tallow certainly does not seem to live up to its hype seen in the media. This too good to be true product may be moisturizing, but not without its consequences. Used as a cooking oil, this product has gained rapid popularity and seems to work for many people as a skincare solution. However, it is important to note that much of the science does not back these claims up and more time is needed to determine possible effects. 

As always, if there is a skincare or wellness trend you are interested in please let me know and i’ll happily look into it!