For something that's been used for centuries, tallow has found itself back in the spotlight.
Once a staple in traditional skincare, it's now making its way into modern routines and for good reason. Rich in nourishing fats and naturally supportive of the skin barrier, tallow has become a favorite for those looking to simplify their skincare with thoughtfully crafted ingredients.
If you're new to tallow, you might be wondering:
How much should I use?
Can I use it on my face?
Is it too heavy?
Is it greasy?
Will it clog my pores? Will it cause breakouts?
The good news is that using tallow is surprisingly simple. A little goes a long way, and with a few small adjustments, it can easily become part of your everyday ritual.
When I first started making tallow in 2024, I quickly realized that many people were using it incorrectly. A little goes a long way, and a few small adjustments can completely change how it feels on your skin. After years of making and using tallow every day, these are the tips I always recommend for getting the most out of your tallow cream.
What is tallow?
Tallow is a traditional fat gently rendered from beef suet - the nutrient-rich fat that surrounds the kidneys. When sourced from pasture-raised, grass-fed cattle and carefully rendered, it creates a smooth, stable ingredient that has been used in skincare for generations.
Unlike many modern moisturizers, traditional tallow balms are water-free, meaning they don't require the same type of preservatives found in conventional creams. Instead, every application delivers concentrated botanical oils and nourishing fats without fillers or added water.
At OCASA, we slowly (dry) render our tallow in small batches before blending it with botanical oils chosen to complement the skin.
Less is more
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying tallow for the first time is using too much. Because our tallow creams are highly concentrated, you only need a pea-sized amount for your face. Warm it between your fingertips until it melts, then gently press it into clean, slightly damp skin. Starting with less allows your skin to absorb the product more comfortably while leaving behind a soft, nourished finish rather than a heavy feeling.
Apply to damp skin
If there's one tip that makes the biggest difference, it's this: Apply tallow after cleansing while your skin is still slightly damp.
Tallow doesn't add water to the skin, but it helps seal in the moisture that's already there. Whether that's after washing your face, misting with a hydrosol, or stepping out of the shower, applying it to damp skin helps create a more comfortable, hydrated finish.
Morning or evening?
The beauty of tallow is its versatility. Many people enjoy using it as their nighttime moisturizer, allowing the rich botanical ingredients to support the skin while they sleep.
Others prefer a lighter layer during the day beneath mineral sunscreen. There's no single right way.
Pay attention to what your skin needs and adjust with the seasons. During colder months, your skin may welcome a little more nourishment, while warmer weather may call for a lighter application.
Where can you use tallow?
While facial moisturizers are the most common use, tallow is wonderfully versatile.
Try applying it to:
- Dry hands
- Rough elbows
- Knees
- Cuticles
- Dry patches
- Chapped lips
- Feet before bed
- Areas exposed to wind or cold weather
Its concentrated texture makes it especially useful anywhere the skin feels dry or in need of extra care.
How long does it take to absorb?
Because every skin type is different, absorption will vary. Dry skin often drinks it in quickly. Combination or oilier skin may need even less product. If your skin feels greasy after application, don't worry, it usually means you simply used more than your skin needed. Try using half as much.
Pair it with a simple routine
One of the things we love most about tallow is how beautifully it fits into a simple skincare ritual.
A routine doesn't have to include ten different products.
Sometimes it looks like:
- A gentle cleanser
- A botanical facial mist
- A small amount of tallow to lock everything in
- Mineral sunscreen in the morning
A different way to think about skincare
Healthy skin isn't built overnight. It's supported by small, consistent rituals repeated over time.
Tallow is simply one tool in that ritual, a traditional ingredient that has stood the test of time because of its ability to nourish and protect the skin.
Whether you're just discovering tallow or returning to it after years away, remember that skincare doesn't have to be complicated.
Start with a small amount. Listen to your skin. Adjust with the seasons. And give yourself permission to slow down.