At MedCart Australia, we're seeing a growing demand for natural skincare ingredients. One ingredient with a long tradition—and growing popularity today—is tallow. From beef tallow moisturiser to tallow balm and tallow and honey balm, this simple fat is being used again in face and body care.
In this article, we explore what tallow is, how it's used in skincare, and what to look for when choosing a tallow-based product.
What Is Tallow?
- Tallow is a type of fat that comes from animals—mainly cows or sheep.
- It’s made by a process called rendering, where raw fat is slowly melted and filtered into a clean, creamy substance.
- Tallow is solid at room temperature.
- Used for centuries in cooking, candles, soaps, and balms.
- Has a long shelf life when stored properly.
Reference: Meat & Livestock Australia, “Rendering and Use of Animal Fats in Australia,” 2023
What Is Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow is tallow made specifically from cows. In Australia, it’s often sourced from cattle raised on pastures—also known as grass-fed tallow. This form of tallow is usually used in:
- Skincare products
- Cooking oils
- Soap and candles
- Traditional ointments
Reference: CSIRO, “Fatty Acids and Lipid Profiles in Australian Beef Products,” 2022
What Is Tallow in Skincare?
When used in skincare, tallow is usually rendered beef fat, processed by slowly melting it down and straining out the solids.
Common types of skincare products made with tallow:
- Beef tallow moisturiser
- Tallow balm and tallow and honey balm
- Tallow soap
- Tallow zinc sunscreen
- Tallow shampoo
Reference: Meat & Livestock Australia, “Rendering and Use of Animal Fats in Australia,” 2023
Why Use Tallow in Skincare?
- Locks in moisture with a rich, waxy texture
- Free from artificial thickeners or stabilisers
- Great for cold climates and oil-based skincare routines
- Often blended with beeswax, essential oils, or honey
Reference: National Centre for Farmer Health, “Natural Skincare in Rural Australia,” 2021
Tallow in Skincare: Then vs Now
Tallow Before (Traditional Use)
- Used in handmade soap and balms for burns, cuts, rashes
- Popular in rural and Indigenous communities
Reference: “Australian Pioneer Remedies and Traditions”, National Museum of Australia, 2021
Tallow Today (Modern Use)
- Refined and often scented with essential oils
- Blended into tallow and honey balm, sunscreen, moisturisers
- Chosen for being natural, gentle, and non-toxic
Reference: “Natural Skin Barrier Restoration” – Australian Journal of Dermatology, 2023
So, What’s the Difference?
| Aspect | Tallow Before | Tallow Today |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Gritty | Smooth, creamy |
| Scent | Strong animal scent | Mild, masked |
| Use | Soap, balms, ointments | Moisturisers, baby care, sunscreens |
| Processing | Simple home rendering | Commercial-grade |
| Consumer | Rural/low-income | Wellness-conscious |
How Tallow Is Made
- Rendering – slowly melting raw fat
- Straining – removing solids
- Cooling – solidifies into a creamy texture
Reference: Food Standards Australia New Zealand, “Rendered Animal Fats,” 2022
Natural Tallow vs. Commercial Tallow
| Feature | Natural Tallow | Commercial Tallow |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Grass-fed beef | Industrial by-products |
| Processing | Minimal | Heavily processed |
| Use | Skincare | Industrial |
| Additives | None or limited | May contain preservatives |
Common Questions About Tallow
- Is tallow a moisturiser? Yes, it's often used in balms and creams.
- What is tallow in soap? Acts as the fat source in soap making.
- Can I put tallow balm on my face? Yes, patch-test first if unsure.
- How do I apply beef tallow moisturiser? Warm between fingers and apply to clean skin.
- How do I make beef tallow balm? Melt, strain, and mix with essential oils/beeswax.
Is Tallow Healthier Than Oil?
Both are fats used for different purposes. Tallow is solid and provides a barrier on the skin. Choose based on your skin type and preferences.
Reference: National Health and Medical Research Council, “Australian Dietary Guidelines,” 2021
Why Was Beef Tallow Banned?
Some restrictions in the 1990s due to BSE, but it was not banned in Australia. It is still permitted under safety standards.
Reference: Department of Agriculture, “BSE and Rendered Animal Products,” 2021
Tallow in Soap and Shampoo
Look for gentle formulations with minimal synthetic additives.
What Are the Disadvantages of Tallow Balm?
- Not vegan
- Can feel heavy
- Noticeable scent if unscented
Choosing the Right Tallow Product
- ✅ Clear labels (e.g. grass-fed)
- ✅ Minimal ingredients
- ✅ Made in Australia
- ✅ No synthetic dyes or fragrances
At MedCart Australia, we offer a growing selection of tallow balm, beef tallow moisturiser, and other personal care items from trusted Australian retailers.
Where to Buy Tallow Skincare?
Find high-quality tallow balm, beef tallow moisturiser, and more from trusted Australian brands in MedCart Australia.
Browse Tallow Skincare on MedCart
Disclaimer
This blog is intended for general information only and does not offer health advice. For personal skincare or dietary advice, please consult a qualified medical professional.
