Move over everyday face cream — there’s a decidedly unexpected ingredient making its way into skincare routines: beef tallow. Yes, the rendered fat traditionally used in cooking is having a moment in the beauty world, where fans are embracing it as a rich moisturizer.

One product to know? Hearth & Homestead Whipped Beef Tallow, a fluffy balm designed to moisturize skin from head to toe.

What is beef tallow, anyway?

Beef tallow is rendered fat from cattle that has long been used in cooking, soap-making and traditional skincare. In moisturizers, its appeal lies in its rich, oil-based texture, which can help soften dry skin and support the skin’s moisture barrier.

Unlike lightweight lotions, tallow balms have a thicker, buttery consistency. Whipping the formula gives it a fluffier texture that feels more like a traditional body butter than a solid balm. It’s a decidedly old-school ingredient getting a fresh spin — and it might just pique the curiosity of anyone looking to simplify their skincare routine.

Hearth & Homestead puts its own spin on the trend with its Herb-Infused (Unscented) Whipped Tallow Balm. According to the brand, the formula combines grass-fed, grass-finished beef tallow with olive oil infused with calendula and rose. So, you’ll receive a multipurpose balm intended for the face and body.

It’s a product to consider if you’re curious about trying tallow-based skincare without committing to a complicated new routine, given that it’s on sale for $27 right now. Its unscented version also offers a break from heavily fragranced products, although it retains a natural, buttery aroma.

Is Beef Tallow Moisturizer worth trying?

The appeal is easy to understand: a rich balm, a short ingredient list and a different approach to everyday moisturizing. But there’s a catch. While beef tallow may help soften dry skin, there’s limited scientific research showing that it offers benefits beyond those of conventional moisturizers. Dermatologists also caution that its heavy texture may contribute to clogged pores and breakouts, particularly for acne-prone skin.

If you’re curious about trying Hearth & Homestead’s balm, start with a small amount on a limited area of skin and watch for irritation. And remember, no matter how appealing a skincare trend sounds, a product that works for one person may not work for everyone.

The bottom line? Whipped beef tallow is an intriguing twist on traditional moisturizing, and Hearth & Homestead offers a simple-ingredient option for shoppers curious about the trend. Just keep your skin type in mind, temper expectations and remember that sometimes the best skincare routine is the one that works for you.

What are the key ingredients in Hearth & Homestead Whipped Tallow Balm?

It contains 100% grass-fed beef suet tallow, organic extra virgin olive oil, calendula, rose and natural scents like vanilla. It is free from synthetic fragrances, seed oils and dyes.

What are the main skincare benefits of beef tallow?

Rich in vitamins A, D, E and K, tallow mirrors natural skin oils to deeply hydrate, restore the skin barrier and soothe dry patches.

How should I apply whipped tallow balm?

Warm a pea-sized amount between your fingertips and gently massage it onto slightly damp skin. A small amount provides long-lasting moisture.

Will this tallow balm clog pores or feel greasy?

Tallow is non-comedogenic because it closely matches natural skin sebum. Using too much can leave a heavy feel, so start with a tiny amount.

Does beef tallow balm smell like animal fat?

No, a low-heat rendering process eliminates beefy odors. Scented options feature a light natural aroma, while unscented versions have a faint, neutral smell.

Is whipped tallow balm suitable for sensitive skin and babies?

Yes, it is a gentle, head-to-toe moisturizer safe for all ages. The unscented version is recommended for ultra-sensitive or reactive skin.

How should I store tallow balm and how long does it last?

Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct heat and sunlight. Unopened, properly stored jars typically last 12 to 18 months.

This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best sheet masks on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos for all hair types and budgets. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.