Introduction to Homemade Beef Tallow Face Cream
Creating your own homemade beef tallow face cream is a return to time-tested skincare wisdom. As someone who’s been crafting natural beauty products for over a decade, I can tell you that beef tallow is one of the most overlooked yet powerful ingredients for achieving healthy, glowing skin. This ancestral beauty secret is making a remarkable comeback, and I’m excited to share my foolproof method for making this luxurious cream.
Before we dive into the process, let’s understand why beef tallow is such a remarkable skincare ingredient:
- Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K
- Rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
- Similar molecular structure to human skin
- Deeply moisturizing without being greasy
- Natural anti-inflammatory properties
Step 1: Sourcing and Rendering Beef Tallow
The foundation of any high-quality homemade beef tallow face cream starts with properly sourced and rendered tallow. This step is crucial for ensuring your final product is pure and effective.
Sourcing Your Tallow
- Choose grass-fed beef fat (suet) from a local butcher
- Look for white, firm fat with minimal meat attached
- Request kidney fat (suet) specifically, as it’s the highest quality
- Ensure the source is organic and hormone-free
Rendering Process
- Cut the suet into small, uniform pieces
- Place in a slow cooker on low heat
- Cook for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally
- Strain through a cheesecloth when completely melted
- Allow to cool and solidify

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, many local farms and online retailers sell pre-rendered, high-quality beef tallow. Just ensure it’s from grass-fed sources and properly filtered.
Step 2: Preparing Additional Ingredients and Equipment
The success of your homemade beef tallow face cream depends on having the right ingredients and tools ready before you begin mixing.
Essential Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
Rendered Beef Tallow | 1/2 cup | Base ingredient |
Jojoba Oil | 2 tablespoons | Softening agent |
Essential Oils | 10-15 drops | Fragrance and benefits |
Vitamin E Oil | 1/2 teaspoon | Preservative |
Required Equipment
- Double boiler or heat-safe glass bowl
- Mixing containers
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Sterilized glass jars for storage
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Thermometer (optional)

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro tip: Sterilize all equipment by boiling or using food-grade sanitizer to prevent contamination and extend shelf life.
Step 3: Mixing and Creating the Final Product
This is where your homemade beef tallow face cream comes to life. The key is maintaining proper temperatures and achieving the right consistency.
- Melt the tallow:
- Use double boiler method
- Heat to about 150°F (65°C)
- Remove from heat once melted
- Add carrier oils:
- Mix in jojoba oil
- Stir gently to combine
- Allow to cool slightly
- Final additions:
- Add essential oils of choice
- Mix in vitamin E oil
- Whip until creamy consistency achieved

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pro tip: For a lighter texture, whip the mixture as it cools. This creates a more luxurious, cloud-like consistency.
Benefits and Storage of Your Homemade Beef Tallow Face Cream
Understanding how to properly store and use your cream will ensure maximum benefits and longevity.
Benefits
- Deep moisturization without clogging pores
- Natural anti-aging properties
- Skin barrier support
- Reduced inflammation
- Cost-effective skincare solution
Storage Guidelines
Storage Method | Expected Shelf Life |
Room Temperature | 1-2 months |
Refrigerated | 3-6 months |
Pro tip: Create smaller batches and store in dark glass containers to maintain freshness and potency.
Conclusion
Making your own homemade beef tallow face cream is a rewarding process that yields a premium skincare product at a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives. By following these three simple steps, you’re creating a natural, nutrient-rich cream that your skin will love. Remember, the key to success lies in quality ingredients and careful preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade beef tallow face cream last?
When properly stored in a cool, dark place, the cream typically lasts 1-2 months at room temperature or 3-6 months when refrigerated.
Can I use store-bought tallow instead?
Yes, but ensure it’s high-quality, grass-fed beef tallow that’s been properly filtered and is food-grade.
Why is beef tallow good for skin?
Beef tallow contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, plus fatty acids that closely match human skin cell structure, making it incredibly nourishing and easily absorbed.
Does beef tallow face cream clog pores?
No, properly rendered beef tallow is non-comedogenic and actually helps balance skin’s natural oils.
Can I add other ingredients to the cream?
Yes, you can customize with different essential oils or add other beneficial ingredients like rosehip oil or frankincense oil.