Is it worth the sizzle?
In the ever-evolving world of skincare trends, the latest craze sizzling on social media is… beef fat. Yes, you read that right. From TikTokers to beauty influencers, people are slathering tallow—rendered beef fat—on their faces in the quest for glowing, hydrated skin. But is this meaty moisturizer a skincare savior or a greasy gimmick?
What’s the Beef with Tallow?
Tallow, long used in traditional skincare, is making a modern comeback. Enthusiasts claim it’s rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as essential fatty acids, making it a natural way to nourish and repair the skin barrier. Some even argue that because tallow’s fatty acid profile is similar to that of human sebum, it’s better absorbed than synthetic creams.
DIY fans are whipping up tallow-based balms at home, blending the fat with essential oils to reduce its unmistakable steakhouse aroma. Brands are also catching on, releasing “luxury” tallow creams for face and body.
The Benefits: Carnivore Glow or Just Hype?
Fans of the trend swear tallow leaves their skin soft, hydrated, and even radiant. It’s also hailed as a miracle for dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin, with some users reporting that it works better than traditional moisturizers.
“It’s all-natural, free of additives, and incredibly nourishing,” claims one TikTok user. “My skin has never looked so dewy!”
But What Do Dermatologists Say?
While tallow might seem promising, dermatologists are less convinced. Dr. Clara Mendes, a board-certified dermatologist, explains:
“Tallow can act as an occlusive, which helps lock in moisture, and it’s unlikely to cause irritation for most people. However, it’s very rich and can clog pores in acne-prone skin. There’s no magic ingredient in beef fat that you can’t find in more targeted skincare products.”
Another concern? Hygiene. “Unless it’s properly rendered and stored, tallow could harbor bacteria, leading to potential skin infections,” warns Dr. Mendes.
“I give it a thumbs down from the scientific and dermatologic perspective,” said Dr. Zakia Rahman, a clinical professor of dermatology at the Stanford University School of Medicine. “It could potentially cause acne flares or cause irritation.”
Who Should Try It?
If you have dry or compromised skin and love natural, old-school remedies, tallow might be worth a shot. Just ensure you’re sourcing high-quality, grass-fed beef fat and rendering it safely—or opt for a professionally made tallow balm.
However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, proceed with caution. You might want to stick to non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or squalane instead.
The Final Verdict
While beef fat might sound bizarre, it’s not entirely unfounded as a skincare ingredient. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re curious, consider consulting a dermatologist before diving into the trend.
Until then, maybe save the tallow for cooking up your favorite steak dinner—and leave your face out of it.
Would you try the beef fat beauty trend, or is this one fad you’d rather skip? Let us know!