Posted by Kerrieanne
Quick answer
For many people, yes. Tallow is a rich, water-free fat that forms a soft layer on the skin and helps hold in moisture, which dry winter skin needs. Use a small amount on slightly damp skin after washing. Research on tallow itself is limited, so patch test first, and see a dermatologist for cracked or painful skin.
By January in Wisconsin, the questions at my market table change. People stop asking about scents and start showing me their knuckles. And more and more often, they ask about tallow. Is it really good for dry skin, or is it just a trend?
The short answer
For a lot of people, yes. Tallow is a rich, water-free fat. When you smooth a thin layer onto your skin, it helps hold in the moisture that's already there, which is exactly what dry winter skin is short on. Dermatologists generally recommend thicker, richer moisturizers in dry weather for the same reason.
What I won't tell you is that tallow is magic. The research on tallow itself is limited. What I can tell you is how it feels and how to use it well.
Why skin gets so dry in winter
Cold outdoor air and heated indoor air both hold very little moisture. Hot showers and frequent handwashing strip away more. The result is skin that feels tight, rough or flaky, especially on hands, elbows, shins and the face.
The everyday fixes are simple: shorter, warm (not hot) showers, a gentle cleanser, and a moisturizer applied right after you wash, while skin is still slightly damp.
What makes tallow different from lotion
It's water-free. Most lotions are mostly water. Tallow is all fat, so a little goes a long way and it doesn't evaporate.
It's rich. It forms a soft layer that helps slow moisture loss, similar to how other balms and butters work.
It's simple. A good tallow balm has a short ingredient list. Ours is grass-fed beef tallow, sunflower oil, jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus fragrance in the scented versions.
Plain tallow can feel heavy and waxy. That's why we whip ours: whipping adds air, so it spreads easily and sinks in without feeling greasy.
How to use tallow on dry winter skin
Wash with a gentle soap and lukewarm water.
Pat dry, leaving skin slightly damp.
Warm a pea-sized amount between your fingers and press it into dry spots: hands, knuckles, elbows, heels, or your face at night.
Use more on very dry areas, less on your face. If you feel shiny, you used too much.
Many of my customers keep a jar on the nightstand and use it on hands and cuticles right before bed.
Who it's a good fit for, and who should be careful
Good fit: dry or normal skin, rough hands and heels, people who want a short ingredient list.
Choose unscented: if your skin is sensitive, pick Beauty Bare, which has no added fragrance.
Patch test first: if you're new to tallow or your skin breaks out easily, try it on a small area for a few days before using it on your face.
Not vegan: tallow comes from beef fat. Ollie Skincare is Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free.
See a doctor: for skin that's cracked, bleeding, painful or not improving.
Our Whipped Tallow
Whipped Tallow is our best seller this fall: a 4.5 oz jar for $20, whipped fresh in small batches here in Wisconsin. It comes in Beauty Bare (unscented), Blue Radiance, Rosemary Sage, Cashmere and Eclipse. It's also part of the Winter Skin Rescue Gift Set, if you're shopping for someone whose hands are always dry by January.
Want more on tallow? Read The Truth About Tallow: What I Learned Once I Finally Tried It or Tallow vs Plant-Based Moisturizers.
FAQ
Can I use tallow on my face?
Yes, in a small amount. Patch test first if you're new to it or your skin breaks out easily.
Is it greasy?
Whipped tallow is lighter than plain tallow. Use a small amount on slightly damp skin and it sinks in without a heavy feel.
Tallow or lotion in winter?
If lotion isn't keeping up, try tallow on damp skin. Some people use lotion during the day and tallow at night.
How long does it stay fresh?
Up to 12 months, stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.
This post is general information, not medical advice.
Kerrieanne
