A softer evening: tallow, acne and fine lines

When skin feels dry, it is natural to look for something that leaves it feeling softer. Tallow is rendered animal fat used in some balms and moisturisers. Its appeal is a rich, emollient feel: a small amount spreads over the skin and leaves an oily layer.

That feel is different from proof of a medical benefit. A 2024 scoping review found important gaps in human research on topical tallow. We cannot promise that it repairs every skin barrier, treats eczema or suits every face. Your skin’s response and the complete formula matter. [1]

Our unscented tallow is non-whipped, with a denser balm-like texture. Our whipped tallow has air worked into it for a softer, more scoopable feel, with vanilla, tea tree oil or lavender options. Whipped describes the texture; unscented describes the scent choice. They are two different characteristics.

An airy texture can make application feel lighter, but the product is still fat-based. Whipping does not prove that it will clog fewer pores or work better for acne. Scent preferences are personal too: a tea tree option is not a tested acne medicine, and scented ingredients can be unwelcome on some sensitive skin.

Check the full current ingredient label before choosing. Unscented may appeal if you prefer no added scent, but it is not a guarantee against irritation. In a warm home, whipped texture can also change; follow the storage instructions on your jar.

Acne-prone skin can still feel dry, particularly during acne treatment. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that a suitable moisturiser can help with that dryness and improve tolerance of some acne medicines. It recommends looking for products labelled oil-free or non-comedogenic, meaning unlikely to block pores. [2]

We have not established that our tallow products are non-comedogenic, and strong human evidence that tallow clears acne is lacking. Some people may enjoy the texture; others may notice more congestion or breakouts. A comfortable feeling after application is not the same as treating acne. [1]

If you are acne-prone, a tested non-comedogenic moisturiser is a more evidence-based starting point. If you choose to try tallow, introduce it cautiously and stop if irritation or new breakouts appear. Persistent, painful or scarring acne deserves advice from a dermatologist.

Dryness can make fine lines look more noticeable. Moisturising helps skin retain water, which can soften the appearance of some fine lines. This is a general moisturiser effect described by the American Academy of Dermatology; it is not a finding from a trial of our tallow. [3]

If tallow suits your skin, you may like its softer-looking, moisturised finish. That is different from reversing wrinkles, replacing lost collagen or preventing ageing. Those outcomes have not been demonstrated for our products, and topical tallow research remains limited. [1]

For everyday care, daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher has a much clearer role in protecting skin from the sun’s ageing effects. Tallow is not sunscreen. Keep sun protection in the morning, even if your favourite balm belongs to your evening routine. [3]

If you decide to try tallow, make it a gentle introduction. There is no need to layer several new products at once or spread on a thick coat. Follow your jar’s directions, and give yourself time to notice how your skin feels.

• Read the ingredient label and test a small area before wider use. A patch test cannot rule out every delayed irritation or breakout.
• Cleanse gently, then use a small amount with clean hands, warming the denser balm between your fingertips if needed.
• Keep it away from your eyes and stop if it causes stinging, redness, itching or breakouts.
• Close the jar and store as directed. Use your usual sun protection during the day.