Let’s cut to it: you’ve seen the TikToks, scrolled Reddit threads, maybe even stood in front of your mirror holding a tin of beef tallow balm wondering—is this going to wreck my skin?
Short answer: Nope.
But let’s break it down.
What Does “Comedogenic” Even Mean?
If a product is comedogenic, it means it’s likely to clog your pores. Clogged pores lead to blackheads, whiteheads, acne. Simple.
So the big question: Is beef tallow one of those offenders?
Where Beef Tallow Lands on the Comedogenic Scale
Beef tallow scores 1-2 on the comedogenic scale. That’s low. For reference:
| Ingredient | Comedogenic Rating |
|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | 4 |
| Olive Oil | 2 |
| Jojoba Oil | 2 |
| Shea Butter | 0-2 |
| Beef Tallow | 1-2 |
That puts it in the same category as jojoba and olive oil—both considered safe for most skin types.
But remember: skin isn’t one-size-fits-all. What clogs my pores might not clog yours.
So, Does Beef Tallow Clog Pores?
- Beef tallow is bioavailable. It mimics the natural oils in your skin.
- It’s full of fatty acids and vitamins (A, D, E, K), which your skin loves.
- Most users say it doesn’t clog pores when used on clean, damp skin.
Check out this Reddit review from someone who tried it for 2 weeks—no clogged pores, just soft skin.
Of course, if you’re layering it on top of makeup, dirt, or sunscreen—yeah, your skin might freak out. Tallow isn’t magic.
Can Beef Tallow Cause Purging?
Yes. Some people experience skin purging when they first use tallow. That means your skin is adjusting, not reacting badly.
Purging happens when:
- Dead skin cells rise faster to the surface
- Your skin starts to detox
If the breakout stays longer than 4–6 weeks, that might be a sensitivity—not purging.
Why Do Some Dermatologists Say No to Tallow?
Derms tend to be cautious with anything DIY or not studied in-depth.
Common concerns:
- It’s animal-derived
- It can vary batch-to-batch
- It doesn’t come with a long list of peer-reviewed papers
But honestly? Scroll through this Reddit thread and you’ll see people loving how their skin looks and feels.
It’s not that derms hate tallow. It’s that they trust what’s tested. Fair enough.
Tallow vs. Other Moisturizers
| Moisturizer | Comedogenic? | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | Yes (4) | Antibacterial, smells great | Clogs pores easily |
| Shea Butter | No (0–2) | Rich in vitamins, anti-inflammatory | Can feel heavy |
| Jojoba Oil | No (2) | Mimics sebum, light | Can oxidize over time |
| Beef Tallow | Low (1–2) | Nutrient-rich, deeply moisturizing | Animal-based, thick texture |
Who Should Avoid Beef Tallow?
- You have oily, acne-prone skin that reacts to rich moisturizers
- You follow a vegan skincare routine
- You prefer water-based or ultra-light textures
How to Use Beef Tallow for Clear Skin
- Start with a clean face — no makeup, no SPF residue
- Apply to damp skin — this helps lock in hydration
- Use a pea-sized amount — a little goes a long way
- Nighttime is best — let your skin soak it in while you sleep
Bonus tip: try it after a gentle exfoliant. Your skin will drink it up.
Final Thoughts: Is Beef Tallow Right for You?
If you:
- Struggle with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Want a single-ingredient moisturizer
- Prefer something natural and whole
Beef tallow could be a game-changer.
Just start slow. Patch test. Keep your routine simple. Use it at night.
And don’t expect miracles in 24 hours. Skin takes time.
Want to try tallow that doesn’t feel like bacon grease? Check out our whipped blend—light, clean, and made to love your skin back.
Your pores might thank you.
Try Toil & Tallow’s Get Whipped Tallow Balm
We made beef tallow make sense for your skincare shelf.
At Toil & Tallow, we whip grass-fed beef tallow with skin-loving oils into a soft, spreadable balm that actually feels luxurious.
No fillers. No fragrance. Just deeply nourishing ingredients your skin will recognize.
Perfect for:
- Dry patches
- Windburn and seasonal skin freakouts
- Eczema flare-ups
- Anyone tired of ingredient lists that sound like chemistry homework
Check out our Get Whipped Tallow Balm—you’ll know within one use why so many people are switching.
Your skin deserves real nourishment. We just made it easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is beef tallow good for acne-prone skin?
It can be. Beef tallow is low on the comedogenic scale and rich in nutrients that support skin barrier health. But patch test first if you’re prone to breakouts.
Can beef tallow clog pores?
Not usually. When used correctly (on clean, damp skin), most users report no pore clogging. It scores 1–2 on the comedogenic scale.
Does beef tallow cause purging?
It might. Some people experience a short purging phase as their skin adjusts to new nutrients and increased cell turnover.
Is beef tallow better than shea butter?
It depends on your skin. Both are deeply moisturizing. Tallow is more similar to human sebum, while shea is plant-based and often lighter.
What is the comedogenic rating of beef tallow?
It’s rated 1–2, which is considered low and suitable for most skin types.
