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!

    15 BEST SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONERS FOR DAMAGED HAIR

    Damaged hair is the obsession of many people, causing hair to become tangled, split ends, break and lose its inherent shine. Understanding that, this article will introduce to you 15 “savior” shampoos and conditioners specifically for damaged hair, helping you restore smooth and shiny hair.

    OUR TOP PICKS

    MONDAY HAIRCARE MOISTURE SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER SET

    Monday Haircare Moisture Shampoo + Conditioner Set is a hydrating duo designed to revitalize dry, coarse, and stressed hair. Infused with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, rice protein, shea butter, and vitamin E, this salon-quality formula gently cleanses while deeply conditioning, leaving hair soft, smooth, and manageable. Dermatologically tested and free from harsh chemicals, this set promotes healthy hair growth and thickness, while the recyclable packaging aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

    AVEDA NUTRIPLENISH LIGHT MOISTURE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Aveda Nutriplenish shampoo and conditioner offer a gentle yet effective cleanse for dry hair, soothing the scalp while delivering intense hydration. Packed with nourishing superfoods like pomegranate and coconut oils, as well as mango butter and oat extract, this duo revitalizes dehydrated hair, leaving it noticeably softer and more manageable after just one use. The rich, creamy formulas are a delight to apply, resulting in hair that feels thoroughly clean without being stripped of essential moisture.

    NEXXUS ULTIMATE MOISTURE THERAPPE SHAMPOO AND HUMECTRESS CONDITIONER

    High-quality hair care can be expensive, but Nexxus shampoo and conditioner offer exceptional value. Priced around $30, this duo is a budget-friendly option for reviving damaged hair. Infused with green caviar and elastin protein, they nourish and repair dry, brittle strands. We noticed a visible improvement in hair health and shine with each use.

    AMIKA NORMCORE HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Amika’s Normcore collection is a dream for those seeking healthier hair. Packed with hair-nourishing ingredients like sea buckthorn, shea butter, and coconut acid, the shampoo and conditioner duo delivers intense moisture without weighing hair down. Both products have a rich, creamy texture perfect for taming thick hair, leaving it soft, hydrated, and revitalized.

    DAVINES MOMO SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Dry hair often lacks essential nutrients and moisture. To restore its health and vitality, opt for products rich in vitamins that can thicken and strengthen your hair. Davines Momo Hydrating shampoo and conditioner, featuring Cartucciaru melon packed with vitamins A, C, E, and niacin, offer a solution. These lightweight formulas not only nourish your hair but also enhance shine, softness, and manageability, transforming dry, lifeless locks into healthy, voluminous tresses.

    KÉRASTASE NUTRITIVE HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Craving shiny, soft, and strong hair? Look no further than Kerastase’s Nutritive line. This hydrating shampoo and conditioner duo is packed with niacinamide and plant-based proteins to fortify and shield your hair from damage. They work in harmony to condition and detangle dry hair, leaving it looking and feeling its best.

    LOLAVIE RESTORATIVE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Static and flyaway hair often signals dryness or damage. To restore your hair’s health, consider Lolavie’s Restorative shampoo and conditioner. This Jennifer Aniston-backed product is packed with plant-based powerhouses like vegetable ceramides, vegan keratin, and B vitamins biotin and niacinamide, working together to nourish, strengthen, and revitalize your hair.

    OLAPLEX BOND MAINTENANCE NO.4 SHAMPOO AND NO.5 CONDITIONER

    If you’re dealing with product buildup from daily styling, you need a powerful hair duo that cleanses without compromising moisture. Olaplex’s shampoo and conditioner offer a deep clean without drying out your hair. The shampoo lathers beautifully, leaving your hair feeling incredibly refreshed after just one wash. This cleansing power has been consistent throughout our testing period.

    PUREOLOGY HYDRATE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Pureology’s sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner duo is a game-changer for color-treated hair. Enriched with green tea, sage, and plant-based proteins, this vegan formula deeply hydrates, strengthens, and protects hair color. We noticed immediate improvements in hair thickness and health after the first wash, with even more noticeable bounce and softness after consistent use. Our scalp and strands also felt revitalized thanks to the added moisture.

    REDKEN ALL SOFT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Thin, dry hair can be challenging to manage as many hydrating products tend to weigh it down. To combat this, you need a shampoo and conditioner that deeply nourish without leaving residue. We recommend Redken’s argan oil-infused duo, designed specifically for dry, brittle hair. Their creamy textures distribute easily and effectively hydrate without leaving any greasy feeling post-rinse.

    SHU UEMURA URBAN MOISTURE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Dry hair doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice lightweight hair care. Shu Uemura’s Urban Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner offer a solution with their thinner yet nourishing formulas. Infused with moringa oil and red algae, these products strengthen and protect hair from damage while providing essential hydration. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich ingredients shield your hair from environmental pollutants, leaving it healthier and more vibrant.

    VIRTUE LABS RECOVERY SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Scalp irritation is common with frequent hair product use, especially for those with dry hair. Virtue Labs’ shampoo and conditioner offer a gentle solution. Infused with their patented Alpha Keratin 60ku, the products repair damage while strengthening and thickening hair. Additional ingredients like quinoa, baobab, and grapefruit extract promote hair growth and overall health, all without aggravating the scalp.

    ORIBE GOLD LUST REPAIR & RESTORE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Craving lustrous locks? Oribe’s shampoo and conditioner duo is a game-changer. Infused with argan and cypress oils, plus a fortifying blend of caffeine, biotin, niacinamide, and plant collagen, this pair deeply moisturizes and revitalizes hair. The shampoo strikes the perfect balance for your scalp, preventing that stripped feeling, while the conditioner seals in hydration for silky smoothness. After six weeks, we were showered with compliments on our noticeably healthier hair.

    L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL SERIÉ EXPERT ABSOLUT REPAIR GOLD SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Are you looking for a way to restore your dry, damaged hair? L’Oréal Professionnel Serié Expert Absolut Repair Gold shampoo and conditioner duo could be the answer for you. Formulated with Gold Quinoa and Protein, this shampoo targets broken hair bonds to mend and prevent future breakage. By creating a smoother hair surface, it reduces split ends and frizz, leaving your hair not only healthier but also with a luxurious shine.

    MOROCCANOIL HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

    Are you having trouble with dry, damaged hair after dyeing or chemical treatment? Moroccanoil Moisture Restoring Shampoo and Conditioner may be the solution for you. Containing antioxidant-rich argan oil, it nourishes and strengthens hair. Keratin helps rebuild broken fibers, restoring elasticity and manageability. This shampoo doesn’t stop there – it also adds moisture and shine, making your hair noticeably stronger and healthier.

    WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SHAMPOO OR CONDITIONER FOR DRY HAIR

    Absolutely! Here’s a summary of what to look for in a shampoo or conditioner for dry hair:

    Hydrating ingredients: Look for ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and shea butter which will moisturize and soften your hair, while also preventing breakage.

    Avoid sulfates and harsh ingredients: These ingredients can strip your hair of its natural oils, so opt for sulfate-free and gentler formulas.

    FAQ

    1. What are the signs of damaged hair?

    Damaged hair often appears dry, brittle, frizzy, and prone to breakage. It may also lack shine and be difficult to manage.

    2. How should I use shampoo and conditioner for damaged hair?

    Wash your hair 2-3 times a week, don’t wash your hair too often.

    Massage scalp gently when shampooing.

    Use conditioner after shampooing, focusing on the length and ends of your hair.

    Rinse hair with cool water.

    CONCLUSION

    Above are 15 popular shampoos and conditioners for damaged hair today. Each product has its own advantages and uses, suitable for different hair types and levels of damage. You should choose products that suit your needs and hair condition to achieve the best results. In addition, combining the use of shampoo and conditioner in the same set will help enhance the effectiveness of hair care. With perseverance and proper care, you will quickly regain the soft, smooth, shiny hair of your dreams.