Tallow vs. Conventional Skincare (Which Is Better?)

I used conventional moisturizer for my whole life up until about 3 years ago when I switched to tallow. My acne is gone, my skin is glowing, and I feel healthier.

In this guide, we’ll break down what’s inside conventional moisturizers, compare them with tallow balm, and explain which might work better for your skin. 

What’s Really in Conventional Moisturizer?

A typical conventional moisturizer often contains a mix of synthetic and natural ingredients.

Here are the 6 most common components you’ll find:

1. Water (Aqua)
   Water makes up 60-70% of most lotions. While hydrating, water-based formulas need preservatives to keep them from spoiling.
2. Emulsifiers and Thickeners
   To achieve a creamy texture, moisturizers rely on emulsifiers like cetyl alcohol or stearic acid. 
3. Preservatives
   Since water-based products are prone to bacteria and mold, chemical preservatives like parabens, phenoxyethanol, and formaldehyde-releasing agents are commonly used to extend shelf life. However, concerns about their effects on the skin and body are growing.
4. Fragrance and Synthetic Perfumes
   Fragrances can cause allergic reactions in sensitive skin. Conventional moisturizers often include synthetic fragrances to mask the smell of other chemicals.
5. Petroleum-Derived Ingredients
   Ingredients like mineral oil, petrolatum, and paraffin wax create a barrier on the skin, but they don’t nourish it deeply. Many are by-products of the oil industry and lack the bioavailable nutrients found in natural fats.
6. Silicones (Dimethicone)
   Silicones provide a smooth, silky feel by coating the skin. However, they often create a barrier that traps dirt and prevents natural moisture from escaping.

What Is Tallow Balm Made Of?

Unlike conventional moisturizers, tallow balm is made from rendered animal fat (usually beef or sheep tallow).

It mimics the natural fats found in human skin, making it deeply nourishing and compatible with the body’s biology. Here's what’s typically inside:

1. Grass-Fed Tallow
   Tallow from grass-fed animals is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with fatty acids like oleic acid and palmitic acid. These fats provide intense hydration and help repair the skin barrier naturally.
2. Minimal, Whole Ingredients
   Many tallow balms are free of preservatives, artificial fragrances, and chemicals. Instead, they may include beeswax and olive oil.
3. No Water, No Fillers
   Tallow balm is typically water-free, which means it doesn’t require preservatives or emulsifiers. This makes it more concentrated, with fewer chances of causing irritation.

I personally ONLY use the highest quality beef tallow and olive oil. That's it.

Tallow Balm vs. Conventional Moisturizer: Key Differences

4 Benefits of Tallow Balm for Skin Health

1. Bioavailable Nutrients
   Unlike conventional lotions that sit on the surface of the skin, tallow balm penetrates deeply due to its compatibility with human sebum. The bioavailable fats are easily absorbed, offering long-lasting nourishment.
2. Non-Toxic and Minimal Ingredients
   Tallow balms often contain fewer than five ingredients, making them ideal for those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Conventional moisturizers, on the other hand, may contain 20+ ingredients, many of which are synthetic.
3. Repairs Dry, Damaged Skin
   The fatty acids in tallow balm, including stearic and oleic acids, promote cell regeneration and repair. For conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and cracked skin, tallow balm often provides relief where conventional moisturizers fall short.
4. No Synthetic Chemicals
   Conventional moisturizers typically rely on stabilizers, thickeners, and fragrances. Tallow balm is free of these, reducing the risk of irritation, breakouts, or hormone disruption.

When Should You Use Tallow Balm Instead of Conventional Moisturizers?

• For Dry, Cracked Skin: Tallow balm locks in moisture and repairs damage more effectively.
• If You Have Sensitive Skin: With no synthetic irritants, tallow balm is gentler on the skin.
• To Avoid Chemicals: Those seeking a natural alternative free of synthetic ingredients will appreciate the purity of tallow balm.
• Long-Lasting Moisture: For long-lasting hydration that doesn’t require constant reapplication, tallow balm is ideal.

Potential Downsides of Conventional Moisturizers

Conventional moisturizers aren’t necessarily bad for everyone, but some users may experience:

• Breakouts: Petroleum and silicones can clog pores.
• Irritation: Preservatives and fragrances may trigger allergic reactions.
• Short-Term Hydration: Water-based formulas often evaporate, leaving skin dry again within hours.

Why Tallow Balm Is Gaining Popularity

The clean beauty movement has increased awareness about harmful chemicals in mainstream products.

As people seek out simpler, more natural alternatives, tallow balm stands out due to its ancestral, nutrient-dense formula. Many users report softer, smoother skin after switching, with fewer concerns about toxins or synthetic additives.

So, Which Is Right for You?

If you prefer lightweight, quick-absorbing products and don’t mind synthetic ingredients, a conventional moisturizer may work.

However, for long-term skin health, deep hydration, and a natural approach, tallow balm offers significant advantages. Its simplicity, nutrient profile, and ability to nourish from within make it a worthy contender in any skincare routine.

For locally sourced, high-quality tallow balm, check out Tallow and Wild’s products and experience the difference for yourself.

Sources

1. National Institutes of Health
2. Environmental Working Group (EWG)
3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health