Tallow: A Traditional Skincare Ingredient Across Cultures

Tallow has been revered for its nourishing and healing properties for centuries. From the ancient Egyptians to indigenous cultures across the globe, tallow was used as a central ingredient in skincare due to its rich fat-soluble vitamins and unique ability to hydrate, repair, and protect the skin. Across diverse cultures, tallow was combined with local herbs and plant oils to amplify its skin benefits, each offering distinct advantages that reflect the natural resources of the region.

Africa: 

In Africa, tallow has long been a valued ingredient in skincare, often blended with locally sourced plant oils like baobab oil, marula oil, and shea butter. These oils were chosen for their exceptional moisturizing, rejuvenating, and healing properties, complementing tallow's rich nutrient profile to create deeply nourishing skincare formulas. The combination of these plant oils with tallow helped to enhance its hydration, boost skin elasticity, and provide additional anti-aging benefits.

Baobab oil, known for its high vitamin C and antioxidant content, was commonly blended with tallow to protect the skin from environmental damage and support the healing process. Marula oil, rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, helped to promote skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Shea butter, a staple in African skincare, was prized for its deep moisturizing and skin-soothing properties, making it a perfect complement to tallow’s rich, emollient texture.

Tallow in African skincare was often used to maintain skin hydration and elasticity, essential for protecting the skin from the harsh sun and dry conditions. These ingredients were especially beneficial in treating and preventing skin conditions caused by extreme climates, such as sunburn, eczema, and dry, cracked skin.

The process of creating tallow-based skincare was traditionally entrusted to herbalists and local healers, often women who held deep knowledge of the land’s plants and their healing properties. These women were responsible for rendering tallow, selecting the best plant oils, and blending them into creams and balms that supported the skin’s health. They often worked with aloe vera, neem, and rosemary, well-known for their calming, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing benefits. These herbs were chosen to enhance the tallow’s natural moisturizing properties, providing additional soothing relief for irritated or damaged skin.

For centuries, the tradition of crafting tallow-based balms was passed down through generations of women who were the custodians of skincare knowledge in their communities. These healers were highly respected and played an important role in the care and wellbeing of their families and villages. The use of tallow in skincare, especially when blended with these potent plant oils, became a trusted remedy for a variety of skin concerns, from protecting the skin against the elements to promoting healing and skin rejuvenation.

Ancient Egypt: 

In Ancient Egypt, tallow was a cornerstone of skincare, revered for its nourishing and protective qualities. The Egyptians, known for their advanced understanding of beauty and skincare, utilized tallow in a variety of ways, blending it with plant oils and herbal extracts to create potent skincare formulas. Tallow was used as a base for creams, balms, and ointments that protected the skin from the harsh desert climate and helped to maintain a youthful appearance.

Egyptians often combined tallow with oils such as almond oil, olive oil, and castor oil to enhance the emollient and hydrating effects of the tallow. Olive oil, rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, was particularly valued for its ability to moisturize the skin and protect against environmental stressors, such as the intense sun. Castor oil, with its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties, was often blended with tallow to promote skin regeneration and reduce irritation. Almond oil, rich in vitamins E and D, was included for its soothing and softening effects, making it a perfect complement to tallow-based formulations.

Tallow’s use in Egyptian skincare was particularly focused on hydrating the skin, soothing sunburns, and preserving skin elasticity. The desert environment, with its dry air and intense sun, required protective skincare to keep the skin healthy and youthful. Egyptian women, especially those in the royal courts, were known to use these nourishing creams daily to maintain their skin's smoothness, glow, and resilience.

The priests and priestesses of Ancient Egypt, who were responsible for overseeing beauty and wellness rituals, were often the makers of these creams and balms. These healers and spiritual leaders, deeply knowledgeable in both medicine and beauty, used tallow in combination with various plant oils and herbal extracts to create skincare treatments that were both practical and spiritual. Frankincense and myrrh, two sacred and aromatic resins, were also frequently added to tallow-based formulations. These powerful herbs, prized for their healing and anti-inflammatory properties, were used to soothe and protect the skin, and they also held spiritual significance, symbolizing purification and renewal.

In addition to its everyday use in skincare, tallow also played a key role in Egyptian embalming practices. The ancient Egyptians believed that preserving the body after death was essential for the soul’s journey into the afterlife. Tallow, along with resins like myrrh and frankincense, was used in the embalming process to help preserve the body. The fat’s ability to prevent dehydration and protect the skin from decay made it a critical part of this sacred practice. As a result, tallow was not only considered a beauty aid but also a vital substance in the spiritual and ceremonial life of ancient Egyptians.

The royalty and elite of Egyptian society were known to have used these luxurious tallow-based creams, but the knowledge of these skincare rituals and ingredients was not restricted to the upper classes. Many families and communities used simpler tallow-based formulas for everyday skincare, handed down through generations. The practice of blending tallow with plant oils and herbs to create nourishing and healing balms became ingrained in Egyptian culture and played a vital role in the longevity and radiance of the skin, even in the harshest of environments.

Greco-Roman: 

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, tallow was a valued substance used for its nourishing, healing, and protective properties. Both the Greeks and Romans recognized the benefits of animal fats, including tallow, for maintaining skin health and preserving youthful appearance. Used in a variety of skincare rituals, tallow was often mixed with other oils, herbs, and resins to create balms, ointments, and creams.

The Greeks, known for their philosophical and scientific approach to health, emphasized the role of fats in skincare. Greek physicians, like Hippocrates, understood the importance of fats and oils for skin hydration and rejuvenation. Tallow, combined with olive oil, was frequently used for moisturizing and soothing the skin. Olive oil was considered the ultimate beauty oil, and when mixed with tallow, it created a rich and effective skincare product that provided deep hydration while helping to protect the skin from the harsh elements.

In addition to olive oil, honey and beeswax were often included in tallow-based skincare treatments. Honey was prized for its antibacterial and soothing properties, while beeswax added a protective barrier to the skin, helping to lock in moisture. Lavender and rose were also used to add fragrance and to promote relaxation and skin healing, particularly in the baths and personal care routines of the wealthy.

Romans, who were heavily influenced by Greek beauty rituals, continued to use tallow as part of their skincare regimens. Roman women, especially those in the upper echelons of society, were known for their elaborate beauty routines. 

Roman writers like Pliny the Elder extensively documented the use of tallow and other animal fats in skincare, emphasizing their importance in Roman beauty rituals. In his Natural History, Pliny praised tallow for its nourishing, healing, and hydrating properties, particularly when combined with plant-based oils and herbs such as olive oil, rose, lavender, myrrh, and thyme. These combinations were key to creating effective skincare formulations.

Tallow’s rich content of vitamins A, D, E, K and B12 made it ideal for supporting skin health, promoting skin cell turnover, and helping to reduce wrinkles. Roman women, especially those of higher social status, used tallow-based creams as part of their anti-aging routines, aiming to maintain youthful, vibrant skin.

Beyond anti-aging, tallow was valued for its healing properties, particularly in treating dry skin, wounds, and sunburn. It also helped protect the skin from harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, tallow’s ability to hold fragrance made it a popular ingredient in Roman perfumery, further showcasing its versatility.

Overall, tallow became a staple in Roman skincare, celebrated for its ability to nourish, heal, and maintain healthy skin while serving as a symbol of personal vitality and status.

Romans often also combined tallow with luxurious oils such as almond oil and castor oil, both of which were valued for their ability to promote smooth and supple skin. 

The role of creating these tallow-based creams was often in the hands of skilled herbalists, physicians, and beauty specialists. In Roman society, women who were trained in beauty rituals or those serving in the imperial courts were responsible for formulating and applying these creams. These beauty experts were deeply knowledgeable in combining animal fats like tallow with plant-based oils and herbs. They used their expertise to cater to the demands of wealthy clients who sought to preserve their beauty and youth, especially by counteracting the effects of aging and harsh environmental factors like the sun.

Tallow in the Greco-Roman world was also used in a more ritualistic sense. The ancient Romans and Greeks believed in the connection between the body and the soul, and their skincare routines often had spiritual undertones. They used tallow-based creams not only for beauty but also to maintain a balance of health and vitality. It was believed that the body’s skin needed to be properly cared for to maintain a connection to the divine and to ensure that one was presenting their best self to the gods and society.

In ancient Rome, tallow and other animal fats were also used in rituals and for preparing the dead for the afterlife, a practice similar to that in ancient Egypt. These fats were used in embalming practices to preserve bodies and to create ceremonial oils for anointing.

Tallow’s use in skincare began to evolve as other plant-based oils gained popularity over time, but the foundational belief that fats were essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin persisted throughout Roman and Greek culture. Even after these ancient civilizations fell, their knowledge and techniques for using tallow and plant oils for beauty and skincare continued to influence skincare practices across Europe and the Mediterranean.

Native American: 

In Native American traditions, tallow was a valued resource for skincare, offering both nourishing and healing properties. For many indigenous cultures across North America tallow played a vital role in the maintenance of skin health, especially for protecting against harsh environmental conditions. It was used both as a skincare treatment and for its spiritual significance, often blended with various natural ingredients such as plant oils, herbs, and tree resins.

The type of tallow used varied depending on the region and the animals available. Common sources included tallow from bison, deer, elk, and sometimes even bear. Bear tallow, in particular, was highly valued due to its rich, nourishing qualities, often being used for its superior healing and moisturizing properties. These animal fats provided not only deep hydration but also helped protect the skin from extreme weather, acting as a natural barrier against wind, sun, and cold temperatures. Tallow was used not only as a moisturizer but also to heal wounds and prevent frostbite, providing a protective layer against the elements, especially in colder climates.

Native American healers, known for their extensive knowledge of plants, animals, and the earth, were the ones responsible for creating these tallow-based skincare treatments. Women, who were often the primary caregivers in their communities, had an intricate understanding of how to combine animal fats with local plants and herbs to create effective creams and balms for skin health. These creams were used to hydrate, protect, and heal the skin, and were also considered essential for maintaining personal vitality and health.

In addition to tallow, these traditional skincare formulas often included a variety of plant-based oils and herbs. For example, cedarwood and pine resins were commonly blended with tallow to offer soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Sweetgrass, known for its calming effects, was often used in combination with tallow to create balms that could heal skin irritations and sunburns. Sage, used for its purifying qualities, was another common ingredient in these blends, particularly in rituals meant to cleanse the body and spirit. Other plants, such as yarrow, lavender, and echinacea, were also often added to enhance the healing and restorative properties of the tallow. Yarrow, with its ability to treat wounds and inflammation, could have been blended with tallow to help reduce irritation. Lavender, known for its calming effects, was added to tallow to soothe the skin while also offering antiseptic benefits. Echinacea, with its immune-boosting properties, could have been used to treat infections and promote healthy skin. Additionally, juniper and red clover were often incorporated into tallow blends for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, further enhancing the healing potential of these natural skincare treatments. Aloe was also added for its soothing and healing qualities, especially for burns and wounds. And comfrey, a plant known for its healing properties, contains a substance called allantoin, which helps promote skin cell regeneration and repair.

In many Native American cultures, these tallow-based creams were more than just a skincare treatment - they were deeply embedded in spiritual rituals. The belief that the skin was the body’s outer protection and a vital part of an individual’s connection to nature and the divine meant that proper skincare was integral to overall well-being. By applying these healing creams, Native Americans sought to maintain balance and harmony with both the natural world and their own health. They believed that using tallow was not only a practical means of skincare but also a spiritual practice. They viewed the respectful use of animal products, including tallow, as a way to honor the animal’s life and gain strength and vitality from its spirit. This connection between the human body, nature, and the spirit world emphasized balance and harmony, with every part of the animal serving a purposeful role.

The role of creating tallow-based balms and creams was often passed down through generations of women in Native American tribes. These women were revered as the knowledge keepers of their communities, understanding how to properly harvest and utilize both animal fats and plant oils. They were skilled in making their tallow creams not only for personal care but also for healing wounds and treating skin conditions like rashes, eczema, and insect bites.

The use of tallow in Native American skincare rituals highlights a deep respect for the natural world and the belief that every part of the animal and plant could be used sustainably for human health. Whether for moisturizing, healing, or spiritual balance, tallow played an essential role in Native American beauty practices, helping to nourish the skin and maintain vitality in the face of the elements.

Nordic and Slavic: 

In the cold climates of Northern Europe, tallow was a vital part of skincare. The Nordic and Slavic peoples understood the importance of animal fats like tallow for their skin’s health. Cow and sheep tallow were commonly used to protect the skin from wind and cold, ensuring that their skin remained hydrated and soft despite the harsh winters. Much like in Native American traditions, bear tallow was also used by some Nordic tribes for its high-fat content and skin-protective qualities.

For centuries, both Nordic and Slavic cultures have relied on tallow as a cornerstone of their skincare rituals. 

In Nordic cultures, the tallow used in skincare was typically rendered from cattle and pigs, with bear tallow also being highly prized due to its rich nutrient profile. Bear fat was known for its deep moisturizing qualities and was particularly sought after for its ability to protect and nourish the skin in harsh, extremely cold climates. The tallow was blended with local plants like juniper, pine, birch, and lingonberry. Juniper was used for its anti-inflammatory properties, pine served as a natural antiseptic, and birch promoted circulation and skin healing. Lingonberry, full of antioxidants, added brightness and rejuvenation to the skin.

The knowledge of how to create these tallow-based creams and balms was often passed down from wise women, healers, and shamans within these cultures. These were individuals with deep connections to the land and its natural resources, often the keepers of centuries-old knowledge. They would craft these skincare remedies in small batches, combining the healing properties of tallow with local herbs and oils. In more remote Nordic villages, women would have been entrusted with the knowledge of how to prepare these treatments, often teaching the next generation of healers and herbalists the art of preserving and utilizing tallow for skin health. These remedies were not only practical but had spiritual significance, connecting people with the earth and its natural cycles.

In Slavic traditions, tallow was typically sourced from beef or pigs, but also from other animals such as sheep, depending on the region. The rendered fat, rich in beneficial fatty acids, was mixed with local herbs like chamomile, nettles, lavender, and rosemary. Chamomile was used for its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin, while nettle helped to treat conditions like eczema and acne. Lavender was known for its relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties, and rosemary was valued for its skin rejuvenating benefits and ability to improve circulation.

Like in the Nordic regions, this knowledge was passed down by healers, midwives, and elders. These were the individuals who not only understood the medicinal benefits of plants and animal fats but were also considered the guardians of cultural and spiritual traditions. In Slavic communities, these people were often seen as the bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds, and their remedies were as much about care for the body as they were about the soul. This knowledge was deeply intertwined with the cycles of nature, harvests, and the rhythms of the earth.

The process of making these tallow-based balms was often a communal activity. Women would gather together, sharing the labor and knowledge of rendering tallow, blending herbs, and preparing these potent skincare solutions. It was a ritual that reinforced community bonds and a shared understanding of the importance of nature in health and wellbeing.

These skincare remedies weren’t just practical solutions to the harsh elements but were a reflection of a profound understanding of nature’s healing powers. Whether it was bear tallow in the Nordic regions or pig and cattle tallow in Slavic traditions, these natural balms nourished, protected, and healed the skin, ensuring radiant and resilient skin in even the harshest climates. The knowledge of these practices, passed down through generations of healers and wise women, remains a testament to the deep connection between humanity and the natural world.

Middle East:

In the Middle East, tallow has been a vital ingredient in skincare for centuries, prized for its nourishing, protective, and healing properties. The region’s dry, sun-drenched climate made the use of animal fats, including tallow, essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. Various cultures, such as the ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Bedouins, relied on tallow to protect their skin from the harsh elements, as well as to promote overall skin health and beauty.

In the Middle East, tallow was primarily derived from animals like goats, sheep, and camels. These fats were rich in nutrients, providing deep hydration and protection against the sun’s damaging rays. Animal fats like tallow were particularly beneficial in desert climates, where the skin was exposed to extreme heat and dryness.

Tallow was often blended with local plant oils and herbs to enhance its effects. Olive oil, a staple in Middle Eastern skincare, was commonly mixed with tallow. Olive oil’s antioxidants and skin-soothing properties complemented the moisturizing benefits of tallow, creating a powerful combination for promoting youthful and healthy skin. Argan oil, another widely used oil in the region, was also added for its deeply nourishing properties, helping to reduce fine lines and maintain skin elasticity.

Herbs played an important role in these skincare formulations as well. Rose water, known for its calming and hydrating qualities, was frequently added to tallow-based creams. It helped soothe irritated skin while providing a refreshing, cooling effect. Saffron, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and brightening effects, was used to even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation. Honey was sometimes included for its antibacterial properties, helping to heal and soothe the skin, especially for treating infections or irritations.

Middle Eastern healers, especially women, were the main creators of these tallow-based skincare products. These knowledgeable herbalists mixed animal fats with plant oils and herbs to create creams, balms, and oils for daily skincare or specific skin ailments. They used these blends not only for their cosmetic benefits but also as part of a holistic approach to health and well-being. Skincare rituals in the Middle East were often seen as an essential part of maintaining balance, vitality, and spiritual connection.

In addition to its beautifying properties, tallow was also used for healing. It was applied to wounds, burns, and irritated skin, providing protection and promoting the skin’s natural healing processes. It was believed that taking care of the skin with natural, nourishing ingredients like tallow was essential for both physical and spiritual well-being.

In summary, tallow has been a cornerstone of Middle Eastern skincare for centuries, often blended with local plant oils and herbs for maximum benefits. Rooted in a tradition of holistic health, the use of tallow was not just about beauty but also about maintaining vitality and spiritual balance. Today, tallow-based products remain important in the region, with modern formulations combining tallow with oils like olive, argan, and rose water for their proven skin benefits.

Australian and Pacific Islands:

In Australia and the Pacific Islands, tallow was a vital component of skincare practices, particularly when blended with local plant oils and herbs. Indigenous communities throughout these regions utilized animal fats, including tallow, for their healing and protective properties. These fats were essential in combating the harsh natural elements, such as the sun, wind, and salty sea air, while also providing nourishment and hydration to the skin.

In Australia, animal fats from kangaroo, emu, and even wombat were commonly used for skincare. Emu oil, in particular, was prized for its ability to reduce inflammation, promote skin regeneration, and treat dry, cracked skin. Tallow from these animals was often combined with native plant oils such as Kakadu plum, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties. These blends provided effective protection and healing for the skin, especially in the harsh Australian climate.

In the Pacific Islands, tallow was used in conjunction with oils from coconuts, tamanu, and pandanus trees. Coconut oil is renowned for its deep moisturizing properties, while tamanu oil, known for its regenerative capabilities, helped to heal and soothe irritated skin. Tallow and these oils were blended to create balms that were applied for sun protection, wound healing, and to soothe conditions such as dry skin or sunburns.

Traditional healers, often the women in the community, were the primary individuals responsible for creating these skincare preparations. They possessed a deep understanding of the plants and animals in their environment, knowledge that was passed down through generations. These healers would expertly combine tallow with plant-based oils and herbs to create natural skincare solutions that promoted skin health and overall well-being.

In many cases, these skincare formulations were not only practical but had spiritual significance. In some Indigenous Australian cultures, the use of emu oil and tallow was believed to connect individuals with their ancestors and the land. Similarly, in the Pacific Islands, the natural world and its elements were often seen as spiritually powerful, and the preparation and use of these tallow-based remedies were deeply integrated with cultural traditions and rituals.

Tallow-based skincare practices continue to influence modern formulations in these regions, with products incorporating emu oil, Kakadu plum, tamanu oil, and coconut oil for their powerful moisturizing and healing properties. Today, these natural ingredients are recognized globally for their effectiveness in treating dry skin, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall skin health, continuing the legacy of Indigenous Australian and Pacific Island skincare traditions.

Asia:

Tallow has been a key element in Asian skincare for centuries, deeply intertwined with the region’s holistic health traditions. In countries like China, Japan, and Korea, tallow was used both for its rich, nourishing properties and its spiritual significance. Animal fats, especially tallow, were valued for their ability to hydrate, protect, and heal the skin, making them essential in skincare routines that focused on preserving skin vitality.

The type of tallow used varied depending on the region and available animals. In China and Korea, tallow sourced from beef or pigs was most commonly used in skincare products. In Japan, beef tallow was the primary animal fat used. Tallow was often used in balms, salves, and creams to protect the skin from harsh environmental conditions, including sun exposure, wind, and cold temperatures.

Skilled practitioners, such as traditional Chinese herbalists and Japanese beauty experts, were responsible for crafting these tallow-based skincare formulations. In China, these treatments were often made by herbalists or women in rural communities, who used animal fats alongside powerful plant oils like ginseng, camellia, and lotus. These oils, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, would be blended with tallow to create a soothing, hydrating, and anti-aging skincare product.

In Japan, women, particularly those from the countryside or imperial courts, were the primary creators of tallow-based skincare products. They would blend tallow with local oils like camellia oil, which was known for its anti-aging properties. Sometimes, additional botanicals like green tea and chrysanthemum were incorporated into these creams, both for their skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Historical evidence of the use of tallow in Asia can also be found in archaeological findings. A notable discovery is the ancient "Moon Milk Balm" found in tombs in China, believed to be a mixture of tallow and other local ingredients. The name "Moon Milk" likely refers to the pale, creamy texture of the balm, which resembled the glow of the moon and was associated with purity and tranquility in Chinese culture. The balm, which is thought to have been used for skincare, demonstrates the long-standing tradition of using tallow to create skincare products for maintaining skin health and beauty. The grave in which this balm was discovered is estimated to be around 2,000 years old, further confirming the historical significance of tallow-based skincare in the region.

While animal fats were deeply integrated into skincare routines, these blends were more than just beauty treatments; they were rooted in traditions that valued the relationship between beauty, health, and the natural world. Tallow-based skincare products were often considered essential for maintaining skin elasticity, youthful appearance, and protection against the elements.

These skincare preparations were passed down through generations, with knowledge often held by skilled women who understood both the healing properties of animal fats and the powerful effects of herbs and plant oils. Their expertise ensured that tallow was used effectively to nourish the skin, prevent damage, and treat conditions such as dryness, sunburn, and skin irritations.

In modern times, tallow’s use in Asia has been overshadowed by synthetic skincare products, but a revival of interest in natural, traditional ingredients is bringing tallow back into skincare formulations. The emphasis is now on the rich, regenerative properties of tallow when combined with plant-based oils, continuing the long-standing tradition of skincare that’s as much about health and vitality as it is about beauty.

 

Why Tallow in Skincare Was Forgotten – And Why It’s Making a Comeback

For much of the 20th century, as synthetic ingredients and mass-produced cosmetics became the norm, traditional skincare practices, including the use of tallow, faded into the background. The rise of petroleum-based products, mineral oils, and chemical-filled lotions began to overshadow the use of natural ingredients like tallow in skincare. This shift started around the 1940s and 1950s, fueled by the increasing demand for convenience, longer shelf lives, and a growing preference for more “modern” formulations in the beauty industry. By the 1960s and 1970s, synthetic ingredients became more common, leading to a dramatic decline in the use of animal fats like tallow. These new, mass-produced alternatives were seen as more efficient and aligned with the era’s focus on technological innovation and industrialization in consumer products.

As the skincare industry increasingly embraced synthetic alternatives, many ancient, time-tested ingredients like tallow were overlooked. Concerns about animal fats, their ethical implications, and changing beauty standards led to a broader adoption of plant-based oils and synthetic chemicals. Over time, these newer ingredients became dominant, leading people to forget the healing power of tallow and other traditional fats.

However, it's important to recognize that when animal fats are sourced from farms that prioritize sustainable and responsible practices, the concerns about ethics are not as straightforward as they may seem. In fact, regenerative farming is focused on caring for the land, improving biodiversity, and ensuring the well-being of the animals. These animals are raised on pastures where they can roam freely, enjoying a natural environment. This is in stark contrast to factory farming, where animals are often confined and treated poorly.

In regenerative farming, animals like cows are part of a healthy farming system, where every aspect of their care is done with respect. The farming practices ensure that the animals are well-treated and are raised in a way that supports their health and natural behaviors. These animals are not treated as commodities but are an integral part of a farming system that also nurtures the environment.

This approach, known as 'nose-to-tail,' means that every part of the animal is used—nothing is wasted. For example, one cow raised on a regenerative farm can provide a family of 4 to 6 people with meat, tallow, and other products for an entire year. This means that a single cow can sustain a family for a long time, and this is a much lower amount of slaughter compared to how many animals are typically raised for food in industrial farming. The animal’s life is respected by making use of all of its parts—from the meat to the fat, bones, and organs. It’s a more responsible way of farming because it focuses on taking care of the land and making sure the animals are treated well, so everything they provide helps support both the people and the environment. This is the way it was done ancestrally, where every part of the animal was used respectfully. The factory farming practices we see today, which involve mass production and waste, are a modern industrial approach that doesn’t prioritize the well-being of the animals or the land.

As more people become aware of these sustainable farming practices, they are realizing that animal fats like tallow, when sourced in this way, are both ethical and beneficial. By choosing responsibly sourced tallow, consumers can support farming that respects animals, promotes environmental sustainability, and produces high-quality ingredients for skincare.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in clean, natural, and sustainable skincare. As people move away from synthetic chemicals and embrace more traditional, eco-friendly options, tallow is being rediscovered for its nourishing, healing properties. Tallow is rich in vitamins, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it an effective ingredient for nourishing and protecting your skin.

At Sunny Farms, we’re proud to bring this ancient, nourishing ingredient back into modern skincare. Tallow has been used for centuries for its skin-healing properties, and we honor its rich history by incorporating it into our products. By focusing on clean, natural ingredients, we create skincare that’s both effective and rooted in tradition.