cleanser and moisturizer for men

HOMEMADE TALLOW FACE CREAM: DIY MOISTURIZER RECIPE

This homemade face moisturizer is the purest, most natural skincare product you can make. It’s a nutrient-rich, whipped tallow cream that provides deep hydration, soothing relief, and powerful anti-aging benefits.

What is tallow? What is tallow cream?

Tallow is simply rendered beef fat, with “rendered” meaning the process of cooking down animal fat.

I explain more about tallow in this post and show how to make it step-by-step in my guide on rendering tallow.

On its own, tallow tends to be stiff and difficult to spread on the skin. To create a smoother tallow face and body cream, you mix melted tallow with a liquid oil like olive or jojoba. This results in a cream with the perfect consistency for easy application.

You can keep tallow cream plain, or enhance it with essential oils for added benefits. Including essential oils with anti-aging properties turns the tallow face cream into the ultimate DIY moisturizer.

You can either whip the tallow face cream or leave it as a solid balm. I personally prefer the whipped version—it’s light, fluffy, and so enjoyable to use!

Easy tallow face cream recipe

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  • Melt tallow until liquid.
  • Add liquid oil and stir to combine.
  • Allow mixture to chill in freezer until just barely solidified, not liquid and soft enough to easily whip.
  • Whip with hand mixer until fluffy.
  • Add essential oils and whip to combine.
  • Store in a glass jar.

    Why use tallow on your skin? Is tallow good for skin?

    What are the benefits of tallow? As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, tallow is incredible for our skin. You can read more about its amazing properties in detail here and here.

    In short, 100% grass-fed tallow is so beneficial because it’s highly biocompatible with our skin cells. You can feel the difference as soon as you apply it—your skin seems to instantly recognize and absorb it! Bison tallow offers similar benefits as well.

    Grass-fed tallow makes an excellent face cream due to the rich array of skin-friendly nutrients it contains (source). Here are some of the key nutrients found in grass-fed tallow:

    • Vitamins A, B12, D, E, and K: This unique combination of vitamins, only found together in animal products, deeply nourishes the skin and promotes healthy cell function.
    • Omega-3 (Alpha-linolenic acid) and Omega-6 (Linoleic acid): These essential fatty acids are present in an almost perfect 1:1 ratio. They maintain the structure and barrier function of the skin, support anti-inflammatory responses, and help manage conditions like eczema and rosacea.
    • Stearic and Oleic acids: These fatty acids, found in the outer layer of the skin and sebum, soften, moisturize, and regenerate the skin. Stearic acid repairs and improves skin flexibility and strengthens the skin barrier, while oleic acid aids in nutrient absorption deep into the skin.
    • Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, CLA helps soothe and protect the skin.
    • Palmitoleic acid: A potent antimicrobial that forms one of the building blocks of our skin, but its levels decline with age.
    • Palmitic acid: Enhances skin smoothness, supports the skin’s barrier function, and also decreases with age.

    Is tallow good for your face?

    Absolutely! Here are some of the amazing benefits that 100% grass-fed tallow provides for the skin, especially on the face:

    • Nutrient-rich repair: Tallow is packed with the nutrients our skin needs to repair itself, making it an excellent moisturizer for achieving healthy, radiant skin.
    • Promotes youthful skin: Many of the nutrients in grass-fed tallow replenish substances our skin loses as we age, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.
    • Biocompatibility with skin: Tallow closely mimics the natural oils our skin produces, which makes it highly compatible and easily absorbed by the skin.
    • Intense hydration: Tallow offers deeper, more intense moisture compared to plant-based oils. You’ll notice how soothing and hydrating it is right away, especially for dry skin.
    • Skin protection and repair: Beyond repairing damaged skin, tallow also helps prevent future damage. Its antioxidants and other nutrients keep skin healthy, strong, and resilient.
    • Prevents acne and breakouts: The natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of tallow help prevent acne while calming and soothing skin inflammation.

    How often to use tallow face cream

    If your skin is too dry or too oily, how much tallow face cream to use depends on your skin type and its current needs.

    • For dry or mature skin, using your DIY face cream twice a day is ideal to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
    • For oily skin, it’s best to use the cream once a day, every other day, or even less frequently, depending on how your skin responds.

    It’s important to experiment and find the right balance for your skin. Keep in mind, a little bit of tallow cream goes a long way, so start with a small amount. If you accidentally apply too much, simply use a dry towel to gently remove the excess.

    Will tallow clog pores?

    No, tallow is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores (source). Its compatibility with our skin’s natural sebum allows it to work harmoniously, moisturizing, soothing, and repairing the skin without causing breakouts.

    If you notice any issues with your pores, you’re likely using too much. A little tallow goes a long way, so applying just the right amount will give you all the benefits without any problems.

    Does tallow contain collagen?

    Not exactly, but several antioxidants in tallow do support collagen production and maintenance in the skin, helping to keep it firm and smooth.

    Two key antioxidants found in grass-fed tallow are vitamin E and vitamin A. Vitamin E helps prevent the breakdown of collagen, while vitamin A promotes collagen production in the skin (source). Together, these vitamins contribute to maintaining healthy, youthful skin.

    Which is better: lard or tallow?

    Sometimes people wonder if they can use lard for skin care like they can with tallow. While you can use lard, tallow is a far better option.

    Lard from free-range, naturally raised pork does provide some vitamin D, but that’s about it. In contrast, tallow boasts a wide array of fat-soluble vitamins and an abundance of other beneficial nutrients. Overall, tallow is the clear winner for skincare.

    Also use it as a whipped tallow facial cleanser

    That’s right! This DIY face moisturizer also works wonderfully as an oil cleansing balm. In fact, it’s my absolute favorite product to use when I practice the oil cleansing method.

    You might be wondering: What is oil cleansing? If you’re new to the oil cleansing method and its many benefits, be sure to check out my post on oil cleansing with tallow here—it’s incredible!

    Another fantastic way I love to use tallow is as a deep conditioning treatment for my hair. You can read all about how I incorporate tallow into my hair care routine here.

    conclusion

    In conclusion, 100% grass-fed tallow is a remarkable ingredient for skin and hair care, offering a wealth of nutrients and benefits. Its biocompatibility with our skin makes it an effective moisturizer, while its rich array of vitamins and fatty acids promotes skin repair, hydration, and overall health. Whether used as a face cream, oil cleansing balm, or deep conditioning treatment for hair, tallow stands out as a versatile and powerful natural product. Embracing tallow in your skincare routine can lead to healthier, more radiant skin and revitalized hair. Experiment with the right amounts for your specific skin type, and enjoy the incredible results that come with this primal goodness!

    2024 MAKEUP TRENDS: FROM SUBTLE ELEGANCE TO DARING STATEMENTS

    As we step into 2024, the beauty industry continues to evolve, showcasing makeup trends that highlight creativity and self-expression. This year brings a captivating blend of natural aesthetics and bold styles, allowing for a diverse beauty narrative that celebrates individuality. Let’s explore some of the most striking makeup ideas for the year, each reflecting the season’s spirit and current trends.

    The Timeless Glow

    In the photograph, a hairstyle is displayed with loosely pinned-back locks and a delicate, wispy front quiff. The hair’s soft brown tones radiate natural warmth, perfectly highlighting the illuminated complexion.

    This hairstyle radiates timeless elegance, making it ideal for those desiring a subtle yet sophisticated look. It embodies an effortless grace that suits any occasion and is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces.

    To maintain this style, using a light-hold hairspray along with a nourishing hair serum can enhance its allure while keeping the hair hydrated and lustrous.

    Soft Speckle

    A face adorned with freckles is beautifully highlighted by a subtle enhancement of the eyes. The makeup remains minimal, embodying simple and natural beauty, with a soft brown eye pencil gently defining the eye shape.

    This makeup is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their natural features without resorting to dramatic colors or heavy application. It’s an excellent choice for low-key occasions or an effortless everyday look, especially complementing hazel or brown eyes.

    For care, use a nourishing eye cream to keep the delicate skin around the eyes smooth, and opt for a smudge-proof pencil for lasting, gentle definition.

    The Radiant Rave Spark

    This striking eye makeup is an audacious masterpiece, perfect for a rave or masquerade. A vibrant blend of red and pink glitters forms a bold, mask-like outline around the eyes, beautifully complemented by a shimmering orange lip.

    This daring makeup look is perfect for those bold at heart, ready to make a statement at a costume party or during Easter festivities. It embodies a confident and vibrant personality, appealing to everyone, regardless of face shape.

    To maintain this striking appearance, choose high-quality, long-wearing makeup fixatives. And when the festivities come to an end, a gentle makeup remover is essential for caring for your skin.

    Smoldering Smoke

    This image features a smoky eye with a twist, blending bronzed and gold hues for a sultry yet refined look. The addition of scattered freckles creates a delightful contrast between the bold eye makeup and the natural skin texture.

    This makeup idea is perfect for evening occasions or when you desire a more dramatic look that still maintains an element of natural beauty. It particularly flatters darker eye colors by adding depth and intensity.

    To keep this smoky eye flawless, choose an eyeshadow with excellent pigmentation and blendability, paired with a waterproof eyeliner to ensure the look remains smudge-free.

    Sunset Serenity

    The final look in this series is a romantic and aesthetic makeup style, radiating the warm glow of a sunset. The blend of peach and pink eyeshadow creates a serene and dreamy effect, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a daytime gathering or an evening soiree.

    This makeup is universally flattering, exuding warmth and softness. It pairs beautifully with hazel or brown eyes, as the warm tones enhance their natural richness.

    To ensure longevity, apply a primer underneath the eyeshadow to keep the colors vivid. Pair it with a lip color that complements the warmth of the makeup for a cohesive and enchanting overall look.

    These final three makeup ideas wrap up our exploration of the diverse beauty trends of 2024. Each look offers an opportunity to express individuality and elegance, from the gentle kiss of rosé to the striking impact of golden glamour. Regardless of your choice, each trend highlights the ever-evolving artistry within the world of makeup.

    The Majestic Masquerade

    A stunning towering updo is expertly styled to create a dramatic crown of elegance. Complementing this majestic hairstyle, the eye makeup is embellished with intricate bejeweled lashes that sparkle beautifully against a backdrop of glossy nude lips.

    This look is a true showstopper, perfect for prom, masquerades, or any extravagant event. It particularly enhances angular features, adding softness and a touch of mystery to the face.

    To maintain such an intricate hairstyle and makeup, use a strong-hold hair mousse alongside a gentle facial mist to keep everything in place while ensuring the skin stays hydrated.

    These snapshots of 2024’s makeup ideas are just the beginning. Stay tuned as we delve into more trends that are set to define this year’s beauty scene.

    Gilded Elegance

    The image showcases luxurious eye makeup featuring rich golden eyeshadow, delivering a radiant shimmer reminiscent of the precious metal. The natural freckles add a charming touch to the look, while the lips are coated in a complementary glossy nude, making it perfect for any season.

    This makeup idea is perfect for those who want a touch of opulence in their daily wear or for special occasions like prom or holiday parties. It flatters a variety of eye shapes, particularly enhancing the warmth of blue eyes.

    To maintain this golden gaze, choose a high-quality eyeshadow that resists creasing, and pair it with a hydrating lip gloss to keep the lips looking plump and moisturized throughout the day.

    Golden Glamour

    This image exudes classic glamour with a contemporary twist, showcasing golden eyeshadow that radiates luxury and sophistication. The bold, metallic eyes are beautifully balanced by a nude lip, creating a timeless look perfect for a prom or masquerade ball.

    This makeup look is perfect for those looking to add a touch of aesthetic opulence to their ensemble. It particularly flatters blue or gray eyes, as the golden hues make them stand out magnificently.

    To maintain that glistening allure, opt for a long-wearing, crease-proof metallic eyeshadow paired with a hydrating matte lipstick, allowing the eyes to remain the focal point of the look.

    Ethereal Sparkle

    This image showcases a mesmerizing eye makeup look, featuring delicate sparkles that encircle the eyes, complemented by a glossy coral lip. This enchanting combination is both aesthetic and fun, making it perfect for a prom or seasonal celebration.

    This dreamy style is perfect for those who embrace a touch of fantasy in their makeup. Whimsical and enchanting, it particularly suits individuals with light eyes, as the sparkles enhance their brightness and clarity.

    To maintain this sparkling beauty, opt for a gentle glitter adhesive and a hydrating, long-wearing lip gloss. For removal, a micellar water formulated for sensitive skin is ideal for gently cleansing away the makeup at the end of the day.

    With these diverse and captivating makeup ideas for 2024, we’ve painted a vibrant picture of a year filled with creativity, personality, and beauty in all its forms. Whether you favor a natural look, the drama of a masquerade, or the bold statement of a rave, there’s something for every style and occasion.

    The Sunset Horizon Eye

    This eye makeup look embodies the vibrant hues of a sunset, featuring bold sweeps of orange and purple, expertly winged for a dramatic effect. The interplay between these warm and cool tones creates a fun and aesthetically pleasing allure, setting the stage for exciting makeup exploration in 2024.

    This style is perfect for those who love to experiment and embrace bold colors. It serves as an expression of creativity and passion, making it ideal for occasions where a strong impression is essential. This look particularly accentuates almond and round eye shapes beautifully.

    For lasting wear, apply an eyeshadow primer and setting spray to ensure the colors remain vibrant throughout the day or night. A gentle oil-based cleanser will effectively remove the makeup without irritating the skin.

    Enchanting Earth Tones

    This portrait captures a captivating look that plays with earth tones, enhancing the eyes with soft browns and a touch of shimmer. The glossy rosewood hue on the lips beautifully complements the natural flush of the cheeks, creating a harmonious and elegant appearance perfect for any occasion.

    This style is perfect for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their daily makeup or for a season-inspired event. It beautifully suits individuals with green or brown eyes, as the earthy tones accentuate their natural hues, creating a mesmerizing effect.

    To maintain this enchanting look, it’s best to choose long-wear cream eyeshadows that provide a rich, blendable color while resisting creasing. Pairing it with a lip gloss that offers both color and hydration ensures that your lips remain vibrant and moisturized throughout the day.

    This combination not only enhances natural beauty but also adds a polished touch, making it suitable for any occasion, whether casual or formal.

    Festive Fervor

    The final image presents a face transformed into a festive canvas, adorned with dots and swatches of bright red and orange that evoke the spirit of a masquerade. This vibrant makeup is a celebration of color, offering a fun and fresh take on traditional festive looks.

    This expressive style is ideal for those who love the spotlight and want to make a statement at a rave or themed event. The eye-catching makeup complements any face shape, inviting admiration and wonder.

    To maintain the vibrancy and placement of such vivid makeup, it’s essential to use high-quality, long-lasting face paint and set everything with a good setting spray. For removal, a cleansing balm is ideal, ensuring the skin is left clean and cared for after the celebration.

    As we conclude our exploration of these innovative makeup ideas for 2024, it’s clear that the year encourages a beautiful blend of tradition and bold new styles. Each concept offers an opportunity to celebrate the unique beauty and personality of the individual, demonstrating that makeup is not just a tool for enhancement but a form of personal artistry and expression.

    Radiant in Rosé

    This portrait showcases a delicate and natural makeup look, featuring sheer pink blush and soft eyeshadows that evoke the gentle hues of rosé wine. The youthful, flushed cheeks and a touch of mascara create a simple yet elegant appearance, making it suitable for any occasion.

    This style is ideal for those who appreciate understated beauty, making it perfect for an Easter brunch or any occasion where a natural, blooming appearance is desired. The soft pink tones are particularly flattering for green eyes, enhancing their vibrancy.

    To maintain this fresh look, use a dewy setting spray and a multi-use stain for both lips and cheeks, ensuring a rosy glow lasts throughout the day.

    The Minimalist Frost

    This image presents a simple, natural look that highlights the eyes. The style features a light application of mascara and subtle eyeshadow, beautifully embracing the season’s beauty without being overly dramatic. The hair, in soft silver tones, flows freely, perfectly complementing the cool and understated makeup.

    This minimalist approach is ideal for everyday wear or casual occasions, perfect for those who prefer a simple yet elegant aesthetic. It’s particularly flattering for individuals with pale or cool-toned skin and enhances the natural beauty of all face shapes.

    For upkeep, choose a lightweight moisturizer and a delicate volumizing mascara that won’t weigh down the lashes. Those with silver hair should use color-protecting hair products to maintain the vibrancy of their hue.

    The Whisper of Winter

    In this portrait, the makeup evokes a winter vibe with a delicate touch of peach on the eyes, beautifully complementing the natural freckles and soft pink lips. The hairstyle, a tousled look in a platinum blonde hue, adds a touch of simple elegance to this fresh aesthetic.

    This understated makeup and hair combination is ideal for low-key occasions or a fun day out. It conveys confidence without needing bold statements, making it suitable for those with fine features and all face shapes.

    Maintaining this look requires minimal products: a nourishing lip balm, a tinted moisturizer for a dewy complexion, and a sea salt spray to add texture to the hair. Opt for hair products that enhance natural tones while protecting against winter’s harsh elements.

    With these six captivating makeup ideas for 2024, we explore a spectrum that ranges from simple, natural beauty to bold, artistic expressions. Each look offers a unique way to embody the season’s trendiest styles, whether you’re attending prom, a masquerade, or seeking an everyday aesthetic.

    Bold and Beautiful

    This striking makeup look bursts with color, showcasing bold orange and purple eyeliner that commands attention and embodies the adventurous spirit of makeup in 2024. It’s a fun and experimental style that perfectly suits lively occasions like raves or edgy fashion events, allowing individuals to express their unique personality and creativity.

    This makeup trend is perfect for those who love to make a statement and can easily be tailored to enhance any eye shape. The vivid orange and purple eyeliner can illuminate brown eyes, making them appear more vibrant, while providing a striking contrast that can unexpectedly elevate blue or green eyes.

    To keep these bold colors intact, it’s crucial to use a waterproof eyeliner, ensuring that they stay vivid throughout the day or night. A setting spray designed for longevity will help maintain the look, preventing smudging or fading. For removal, a specialized eye makeup remover is ideal to gently cleanse the delicate skin around the eyes without causing irritation.

    The latest makeup trends for 2024 embrace versatility and creativity, encouraging individuals to express their unique styles. Whether you prefer a natural look or a more artistic approach, there’s a wealth of options to explore, making this year an exciting time for makeup artistry and self-expression.

    Peachy Perfection

    The featured makeup look celebrates the effortless beauty of peach tones. This harmonious blend complements the natural eye color, enhanced by feathery lashes and perfectly groomed brows, embodying an easy, natural style suitable for any season.

    This look is perfect for those seeking a fresh, simple makeup style that complements daytime events or casual occasions. It’s versatile and particularly enhances brown eyes, giving them a warm and inviting appearance.

    To maintain this peachy glow, choose a long-lasting cream eyeshadow, a clear brow gel to set the eyebrows, and a nourishing mascara that conditions the lashes while providing a natural lift.

    conclusion

    In conclusion, the makeup trends of 2024 celebrate a beautiful spectrum of styles that range from understated elegance to bold artistry. Each look offers a unique way to express individuality, whether through soft, natural tones that enhance everyday beauty or striking, colorful designs that make a statement at special events.

    As we move forward into the year, the essence of makeup as a form of self-expression remains at the forefront, encouraging us to embrace our unique beauty and experiment with new techniques. Whether you’re preparing for a casual outing, a festive celebration, or an everyday look, the possibilities are endless, making 2024 an exciting year for beauty enthusiasts everywhere.