- A new TikTok trend has people spreading beef tallow on their skin.
- Purported benefits include added moisture and less acne.
- Experts say it could have the opposite effect if you have oily skin.
- However, it might be helpful for those with very dry skin or eczema.
TikTok has spawned many skin care trends over the years. However, not all of them are beneficial for your skin.
For example, some, like the Morning Shed, advocate for an intensive nighttime beauty regimen involving multiple products, which can actually irritate your skin and do more harm than good.
So, what about the beef tallow trend that’s currently making the rounds?
Other than sounding a bit gross, is it actually good for your skin health? Healthline consulted with two dermatologists to find out.
What is the beef tallow TikTok trend?
Healthline spoke with Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery, who explained what beef tallow is and why people on TikTok are incorporating it into their skin care routine.
According to Kopelman, followers of the trend are promoting the idea of using rendered animal fat, especially beef tallow, directly on the skin as a moisturizer or treatment for skin conditions such as acne.
Rendering is a process in which moisture is removed from raw animal fat through evaporation. The goal of rendering is to make it shelf-stable so it can be used in cooking or as an ingredient in soap, candles, or even skincare products.
“Followers are even visiting butcher shops to source unprocessed tallow,” she explained, “claiming it’s a ‘natural’ and ‘ancestral’ remedy for healthier skin.”
Kopelman added that TikTok videos often highlight its heavy, balm-like consistency as well as its similarity to our skin’s natural oils.
Why people think using beef tallow is good for their skin
“Many advocates of this trend believe that beef tallow is rich in nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for skin health,” said Kopelman.
Additionally, they point to the fact that it closely resembles sebum, our skin’s natural oil. This supports the idea that it will replenish moisture, protect the skin’s barrier function, and reduce inflammation.
Kopelman further notes that the beef tallow trend is tied to the growing popularity of “ancestral” or “primal” wellness practices.
These practices put an emphasis on natural, unprocessed ingredients as well as a return to older methods of self-care.
“Influencers are framing tallow as a safer, more natural alternative to synthetic skin care products, which resonates with many people looking to simplify their routines,” she said.
Are there risks to using beef tallow on your skin?
Dr. Anil Sharma, a dermatologist with Sharma Skin & Hair Surgery, suggests proceeding with caution if you are considering using beef tallow, as it can pose risks.
“While TikTok creators may be recommending [beef] tallow as a ‘natural’ remedy, it’s important to understand that it could cause more harm than good,” he said.
First of all, it’s highly comedogenic, which means it could clog your pores and make your acne even worse.
Sharma added that some studies have found that it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Also, rather than helping your skin barrier, it may actually do the opposite due to its high oleic acid content.
“When this happens, moisture escapes from your skin more easily,” said Sharma, “which can lead to dryness and irritation and an increased likelihood of other substances penetrating deeper into your skin, some of which could cause further irritation.”
Potential benefits of using beef tallow on your skin
Sharma said that using beef tallow on your skin could be beneficial in some specific cases.
“Due to its make-up, beef tallow closely mimics the skin’s natural oils,” said Sharma. “Its natural and lipid-rich composition can make it an effective moisturizer and healing agent for those with eczema-prone or extremely dry skin.”
Tallow’s essential fatty acids and antioxidants can also be helpful with inflammation, he said.
“If you have eczema-prone or extremely dry skin and are curious to try this trend, I recommend starting with a small amount — a penny-sized portion — applied to both elbows and knees after your evening shower.”
If your hands are also dry, you can apply the same amount to them and wear cotton gloves to hold in the moisture.
Sharma said that you can go up to two penny-sized portions if one isn’t enough, but don’t go higher than this since it could lead to clogged pores.
“This should only be done once or twice a week,” he added. “Tallow is extremely oily and isn’t good for everyday use.”
In the morning, gently wash off the tallow before beginning your usual skin care routine.
Takeaway
People on TikTok are advising using beef tallow to care for your skin.
Some of the purported benefits are improved moisture and decreased acne.
Dermatologists say it could have the opposite effect, causing moisture loss and clogged pores.
However, it may be good for those with very dry skin or eczema since it mimics your skin’s natural oil.
If you decide to try out this trend, proceed with caution and use no more than a couple of penny-sized portions.
