How to Make Homemade DIY Tallow Balm Recipe (Whipped & Solid Recipe)
If you’re at all into chemical-free, all-natural skincare and body products, then you’ve probably heard of grass-fed beef whipped tallow balm and the many benefits of beef tallow for skin. As a mom, holistic esthetician, and a natural skincare advocate, I’m passionate about using clean, effective ingredients.
In my home, we use tallow as a face cream, body lotion, and treatment for eczema and dry skin, as well as a diaper rash cream for our little ones.
This balm is especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin because it’s packed with skin-loving nutrients and fatty acids that mimic the natural oils our skin produces.
And bonus tip: using tallow from grass-fed cows ensures that your balm is rich in vitamins and stearic acid, which support healthy skin cell membranes and overall skin health.
Pssstt… We have some AMAZING whipped tallow balm in our shop for an easy and effective way to nourish your skin with healthy ingredients. Our highly rated tallow balm has raving 5 star ratings and reviews.
How Do You Whip Tallow for Skin?
To whip tallow for skin, start by melting the tallow using a double boiler over very low heat.
Once it’s fully melted, add your chosen liquid oil, such as olive oil or jojoba oil, and stir well to combine.
You’ll want to allow the mixture to cool slightly, then use a hand mixer to whip the tallow and olive oil together until you achieve a light, fluffy consistency.
Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil during this process can give the balm additional skin benefits and make it smell beautifully.
Can You Put Too Much Tallow On Your Skin?
While tallow is highly beneficial for the skin due to its fatty acids and skin-loving nutrients, it’s possible to apply too much.
A small amount goes a long way with tallow balm. Start with a little bit and gently massage it into your skin.
If you apply too much, you might find it leaves a greasy residue. Adjust the amount based on your skin’s needs and how well it absorbs the balm.
I have dryer skin so I find that I’m able to use quite a bit morning and night. However, my best friend is more on the oiler side so she has better results when she puts a thinner layer on and only once per day.
Does tallow balm clog pores?
Tallow balm is generally non-comedogenic, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores.
The composition of tallow closely resembles the natural skin oils produced by our skin, which makes it an excellent option for most skin types, including those prone to acne.
The stearic acid supports healthy cell membranes and overall skin health. However, as with any skincare product, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test first to ensure it suits your skin without causing any adverse reactions.
How Long Does Whipped Tallow Balm Last?
Whipped tallow balm can last a long time if stored properly. When kept at room temperature in a dark place, it typically has a shelf life of about 6-12 months.
Adding vitamin E can help extend the shelf life by preventing the natural oils from becoming rancid.
Should I refrigerate tallow after opening?
You don’t need to refrigerate your tallow balm, but doing so can help prolong its shelf life, especially in warmer climates.
Storing it in a cool, dark place usually works just fine, but refrigeration can be a good idea if you prefer a firmer consistency or live in a hot area.
Keeping it in a small jar makes it easy to handle and use.
Homemade DIY Tallow Balm Recipe (Whipped & Solid)
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own whipped tallow balm:
- 1 cup of rendered tallow– (Preferably from grass-fed cows, as it’s richer in nutrients).
- 1/4 cup of olive oil– Extra virgin olive oil is a great option due to its purity and nutrient content. I love olive oil for many reasons, but if you prefer, you can substitute olive oil with other natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil, depending on your skin’s needs and your personal preferences.
- 10-20 drops of essential oils (optional): Customize your balm with a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Lavender, rosehip seed oil, and argan oil are popular choices for their skin benefits.
Instructions
Render the Tallow
If you don’t have pre-rendered tallow, you’ll need to render it first.
- Cut beef fat into small pieces and heat it slowly in a small saucepan over very low heat until the fat melts.
- Strain the liquid fat and let it cool.
If you need more in depth instructions on this process, check out my blog post on how to render and purify beef tallow.
Melt and Mix
Using a double boiler, melt the tallow gently. Once it’s liquid, add olive oil and stir well to combine.
For a solid balm using essential oils, stir the essential oils into the liquid mixture before pouring it into the containers. Then mix.
Cool and Whip (for Whipped Balm)
For a whipped tallow balm, pour the liquid balm mixture into a large mixing bowl and allow it to solidify at room temperature. Once solidified, use a hand mixer to whip the tallow and olive oil together until you achieve a light, fluffy consistency.
If using essential oils, add a few drops to the mixture. For a whipped balm, whip again to incorporate the oils evenly.
Cool and Set (for Solid Balm)
For a solid balm, pour the liquid mixture (essential oils included) directly into your containers and let it solidify at room temperature without whipping.
Store Properly
Transfer your whipped tallow balm into small jars.
Store in a dark place to preserve its shelf life and prevent the oils from becoming rancid.
Final Thoughts
Making your own tallow balm at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure they are natural and high-quality. This skincare product is perfect for soothing dry skin, improving skin tone, or simply enjoy the benefits of natural oils.
I know you’ll love it just as much as we do. Let me know in the comments if you have tried this recipe and your experience with it!
-With lots of love, Kacie at THE HONEYROOT
About The Author
Kacie is a wife, homeschool mom of 4 boys (from toddler to teen), holistic esthetician, and a sixth-generation homesteader with a passion for natural and sustainable living, creating a home that educates the mind and nurtures the soul, and reclaiming our independence like our ancestors before us.