Hot vs. Hype: Beef Tallow

Beef tallow doesn’t live up to the hype. Here’s why.

Beef Tallow is essentially fat rendered from cows. It’s rich in fatty acids, vitamins and has great moisturizing properties. However, it also contains oleic acid which can disrupt the skin’s barrier.  When the skins barrier is compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to irritation and skin sensitivities that could potentially lead to conditions such as eczema & rosacea.

How Beef Tallow interacts with your skin

Now let’s talk pH. Our skin’s natural pH ranges from 4.5 to 5.5. The pH of Beef Tallow is typically between 6.0 to 7.0 or possibly higher. This means it could disrupt the balance of your skin’s acid mantle leaving your skin dehydrated, dry, more susceptible to breakouts, and infection.  

Beef Tallow is considered “comedogenic” meaning it can clog pores and potentially worsen acne especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. When tallow is applied, it creates an occlusive barrier that feels good on the surface but is trapping bacteria, dead skin cells, & any dirt you might have in your pores.  

Beef Tallow is considered “comedogenic” meaning it can clog pores and potentially worsen acne especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. 

Quality is essential, and can make or break your products

Don’t forget about the quality of the Tallow! Poor quality tallow or spoiled fat can contain rancid oils & oxidative by-products which can further irritate your skin. Where was the beef tallow sourced?  If the cows were exposed to hormones or pesticides & not raised at a reputable or grass-fed or organic farm, it could contain contaminants. Those contaminants could make their way into the tallow and potentially absorbed into your body.  

The truth about Beef Tallow beauty trends

We do know that Beef Tallow has been used for centuries & influencers on social media claim it has worked wonders. But here’s the deal.  #1 There is no solid scientific proof that it works as a skincare miracle.  #2 Just because someone claims a product has worked wonders for them, it does not mean that it will have the same effect for you. Skincare is not a one-size-fits-all.  

Do your own research & don’t trust everything you read on the internet. Licensed estheticians are trained professionals who have studied the anatomy and physiology of the skin as well as product chemistry ingredients. Find an esthetician you can trust and book that consultation! 

Don’t fall for the hype! If you want advanced, medically-proven spa services from a trustworthy provider, Exhale Med Spa in Little Rock is here to help. Our experienced team is here to help you glow from head to toe, with non-surgical options for the face, skin, and body that are safe and, most importantly, proven to actually work! Schedule your consultation with one of our expert providers today.