Beef Fat Skincare: Is it the Real Deal for Glowing Skin?
In the ever-evolving world of skincare trends, one particular product is causing quite a stir – tallow, also known as rendered bovine fat. But is it a skincare hack or hack skincare? According to dermatologists, the jury is still out.
Dr. Zakia Rahman, a clinical professor of dermatology at Stanford University School of Medicine, is not sold on the idea of using tallow as a moisturizer. She believes it could potentially lead to acne flares or skin irritation, casting doubt on its effectiveness as a skincare product.
Despite the skepticism from experts, tallow has gained a loyal following among some skincare enthusiasts. Sascha Green, a 28-year-old resident of Indiana, swears by its benefits, using it to alleviate dry skin, bug bites, rashes, and burns. She even went as far as making her own tallow by rendering fat from meat bought at Costco, showcasing the DIY appeal of this unconventional skincare ingredient.
Another believer in the power of tallow is Rachel Ogden, 48, who claims that it has left her skin feeling “nourished.” Meanwhile, Morgan Helm, 24, attests to a “huge difference” in her complexion after incorporating tallow into her skincare routine. Despite the potential drawbacks, such as smelling a bit “beefy,” for Helm, the results speak for themselves – a glowing face that she is proud of.
The surge in popularity of tallow can be attributed to its presence on social media platforms like TikTok, where creators tout it as nature’s Botox or a retinol alternative. Mary Heffernan, a tallow product maker based in Northern California, has seen her business skyrocket thanks to the exposure on TikTok. In one instance, after promoting tallow on her website, she sold out overnight, raking in $42,000 in sales in just one night.
Experts Weigh In
Despite the glowing testimonials from users, experts remain cautious about the true benefits of tallow. Dr. Mary L. Stevenson, a dermatologic surgeon and associate professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Health, does not recommend tallow to her patients due to the lack of scientific data supporting its efficacy. She emphasizes the importance of choosing skincare products with proven ingredients to avoid potential skin issues like acne.
Dr. Muneeb Shah, a board-certified dermatologist, echoes the sentiment, stating that while tallow may not be harmful, there are plenty of other affordable and effective skincare options available. He advises consumers to opt for products with well-established benefits rather than experimenting with unfamiliar ingredients like tallow.
In conclusion, while tallow may have its proponents, it is essential to approach skincare trends with caution and seek advice from dermatologists before incorporating new products into your routine. Remember, when it comes to skincare, what works for one person may not work for another. So, before you jump on the tallow bandwagon, make sure to do your research and consult with a skincare professional to make an informed decision about what’s best for your skin.