Beef Tallow: Why We’re Avoiding the TikTok Trend

Yes, you read that right—beef tallow. This unexpected skincare trend has been doing the rounds on TikTok for the past six months, thanks to Nara Smith, who shared, in a now viral video, that she uses it as a base ingredient in her homemade moisturiser.

So what is beef tallow?

Beef tallow is purified beef fat, obtained by slowly melting and rendering raw fat. Advocates of the meaty ingredient claim it offers several skincare benefits, such as hydration, protection against free radical damage, reduced inflammation, and increased collagen production.

Does it live up to the hype?

Experts remain sceptical on whether beef tallow has any real beauty benefits. While it may provide some benefits, it also carries risks. We spoke with Daniel Isaacs, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder at Medik8, who explained the downsides of introducing beef tallow into your skincare routine.

“Using beef tallow on the skin can carry several risks due to its composition and origin,” Isaacs explains. “While beef tallow does contain fats that may have emollient properties, it is not formulated for skincare and may not be suitable for all skin types.” He notes that individuals with oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin should approach this trend with caution, adding that even those with normal, dry, or dehydrated skin should consider its potential side effects.

Risks of Beef Tallow in Skincare

Clogged Pores and Breakouts

According to Isaacs, beef tallow is occlusive, which means it forms a barrier on the skin. Those with oily or acne-prone skin may see excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells get trapped in their skin, clogging pores and trigger breakouts.

Irritation and Sensitivities

As a natural, animal-derived product, beef tallow may not be refined or purified to the same standards as professional skincare products. “This can lead to irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema,” says Isaacs.

Bacterial Contamination

“If beef tallow is not properly rendered or stored, it can harbour bacteria or other impurities, posing a risk of infection,” Isaacs warns. Unlike professionally formulated skincare products, beef tallow lacks preservatives and sterility checks to ensure safety and stability.

Alternatives

For those seeking the supposed skincare benefits of beef tallow without the risks, Isaacs suggests non-comedogenic options. “Ceramide-based or hyaluronic acid-based moisturisers are excellent alternatives to beef tallow,” he explains. “These ingredients are scientifically proven to support and repair the skin barrier while being gentle, safe, and suitable for all skin types.”

Continue scrolling to discover our favourite beef tallow alternatives.