TikTok’s Wild New Skincare Trend: Beef Tallow as a Beauty Hack?

TikTok has seen its fair share of bizarre trends, but the latest one is turning heads—and stomachs. Users are ditching traditional skincare products for an unusual alternative straight from the kitchen: beef tallow. Yes, people are applying animal fat to their faces in the name of radiant, hydrated skin. But is this viral beauty hack a game-changer or a recipe for disaster?

What Is Beef Tallow, and Why Are People Using It?

Beef tallow, a rendered fat from cows, has been traditionally used for cooking and soap-making. However, TikTok users are claiming it’s a skincare miracle, boasting benefits like:

• Natural hydration
• A radiant glow
• Intense nourishment for dry skin

Videos under hashtags like #beeftallow are flooding TikTok, with users showing off their beef fat beauty routines and swearing by its transformative properties. Many enthusiasts argue that tallow contains fatty acids similar to those found in luxury skincare products, making it a budget-friendly alternative to expensive creams.

What Do Experts Say?

While TikTokers rave about the trend, dermatologists are far less enthusiastic. Lesley Reynolds, co-founder of Harley Street Skin Clinic, cautions against using beef tallow on the skin:

“Beef tallow is heavy and unrefined, which means it can clog pores, trap bacteria, and cause breakouts. For people with sensitive or acne-prone skin, it can lead to serious irritation.”

Experts also highlight the hygiene risks of applying a raw animal byproduct to the skin. Without proper refinement, beef tallow can carry impurities that irritate or contaminate the skin.

Why Vegans and Clean Beauty Enthusiasts Are Outraged

The rise of beef tallow as a skincare product has sparked backlash from vegans and clean beauty advocates. In a world increasingly focused on cruelty-free and plant-based beauty, the idea of using animal fat feels like a step backward.

One vegan beauty blogger wrote:

“It’s disappointing to see people embrace a trend that not only raises ethical concerns but also undermines the progress made in sustainable beauty.”

Tried-and-True Alternatives

For those seeking natural hydration without the risks, dermatologists recommend safer alternatives like:

• Shea butter
• Jojoba oil
• Ceramides

These products are scientifically proven to nourish the skin without clogging pores or causing irritation.

The Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?

While TikTok has a history of turning strange ideas into viral sensations, beef tallow as skincare might not be the smartest choice. Between the potential for clogged pores and ethical concerns, experts suggest sticking to trusted, plant-based options.

Unless you’re eager to smell like a steakhouse and risk a breakout, it’s best to leave the beef tallow in the kitchen.

@gracemayofficial Giving beef tallow a shot in my skincare routine… if I break out in a few days, we’ll know why! 😂 Have you guys tried it before? Share your experience with me in the comments 😀 #fyp #viral #relatable #acne #hormonalacne #acnetreatment #beeftallow #clearskin ♬ original sound – Grace 🌿🫧