If you’ve spent time on TikTok lately, you’ve probably stumbled upon the latest skincare craze: beef tallow. Yes, you read that right—beef tallow, essentially rendered animal fat, is being touted as a miracle cure for everything from acne to eczema, with some users hailing it as “nature’s answer to Botox.”

Creators on TikTok and Reddit users alike have been raving about its supposed ability to transform skin, giving it a dewy, glowy complexion and soothing irritation. But before you grab the nearest jar of tallow, let’s take a closer look at this viral trend and whether it’s the solution your skin needs.

What is Beef Tallow?

At its core, beef tallow is rendered fat from cows, traditionally used in cooking and, historically, in cosmetics. It’s rich in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, and its consistency and composition are said to mimic the natural oils in human skin.

Nara Smith, a TikTok creator known for her home-cooking content, brought beef tallow into the skincare spotlight as a key ingredient in her DIY moisturisers. Supporters claim it protects the skin barrier, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can help soothe dry or irritated skin. But is it as good as it sounds?

The Importance of Protecting Your Skin Barrier

Your skin barrier is like a shield, protecting your skin from environmental stressors, bacteria, and moisture loss. When your skin barrier is damaged—often from over-exfoliation, harsh products, or lack of hydration—you might experience dryness, redness, sensitivity, or acne.

While beef tallow proponents argue it can repair and nourish the skin barrier, there are important considerations before jumping on this trend.

The Risks of Using Beef Tallow on Your Skin

For those with acne-prone or sensitive skin, applying beef tallow might not be the glowing solution it’s made out to be. Here’s why:

1. Comedogenicity
   Beef tallow is comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores. This is a major red flag for anyone with acne-prone skin, as clogged pores can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and further breakouts.

2. Lack of Testing
   Unlike professionally formulated skincare products, beef tallow hasn’t undergone rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. While TikTok creators might claim miraculous results, anecdotal evidence isn’t the same as scientific proof. Using untested substances on your skin can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or exacerbate existing skin conditions.

Fads vs. Facts: Why You Should Think Twice

Social media platforms like TikTok can be a double-edged sword when it comes to skincare advice. While they make information accessible, they’re also breeding grounds for misinformation. This isn’t the first time a dubious skincare trend has gone viral, and it won’t be the last (anyone remember the toothpaste-on-spots phase?).

It’s crucial to vet the sources of information you’re trusting with your skin health. Look for experts, such as dermatologists or licensed aestheticians, who provide evidence-based advice. And remember, just because something works for one person doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

What’s the Alternative?

You don't need to slather your face in animal fat if you’re searching for a natural and effective solution to acne or dry skin. Our founder, Frank, created our product line with frustrated skincare users in mind. After struggling with acne and disappointing results from conventional products, Frank sought to develop various natural, vegan, and science-backed skincare solutions.

Our Clearing Face Cream is designed to tackle acne and support your skin barrier without the risks associated with TikTok trends. Packed with powerful, skin-friendly ingredients from around the globe, it delivers targeted results without clogging your pores—or making your skincare routine feel like a greasy mess.

Beef tallow may sound like a fun alternative to traditional skincare, but cautiously approaching trends like this is vital. Your skin deserves the best care, which means sticking to proven, safe and effective products.

So, before you raid your kitchen for DIY skincare ingredients, consider reaching for trusted, science-backed alternatives. Your skin will thank you!