What is Suet Tallow?

Suet tallow is a type of rendered beef fat that comes from the fatty tissue around the kidneys of cattle. Unlike other fats, suet has a distinct firm texture, is non-greasy, and minimal "fatty" smell. The process of rendering beef suet involves slowly heating the fat to melt & separate it from the fascia (the thin tissues that hold it together) which resulting in the pure, golden substance known as tallow.

Tallow is an ancient fat used for centuries- from cooking to candles to skincare. In recent years, it’s made a resurgence in health-conscious and sustainable lifestyle communities. When it comes to suet, the type of fat you use can vary based on the animal's diet, which brings us to the next point: the difference between grass-fed and grain-fed suet.

 

Why Grass-Fed & Grass-Finished Suet is More Beneficial than Grain-Fed Suet

When considering beef tallow for health or skincare purposes, it’s important to know where the fat comes from. The diet of the cattle can significantly affect the nutritional profile and health benefits of the resulting tallow. There’s a clear distinction between grass-fed, grass-finished, and grain-fed cattle, and this difference can influence the quality of the fat.

Omega-3 to Omega-6 Ratio

One of the most significant advantages of grass-fed beef fat is the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. Grass-fed cattle naturally consume a diet of fresh grass, which leads to higher levels of omega-3s, the healthy fats found in fish and flaxseeds. On the other hand, grain-fed cattle, often raised on corn or soy, have a much higher concentration of omega-6 fatty acids. Excessive omega-6 consumption (which is common in modern diets) can contribute to inflammation and various chronic health issues, so a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio is ideal for overall health.

Grass-fed suet is therefore considered to be a more nutritionally balanced fat that encourages skin health.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

Grass-fed beef fat contains higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fatty acid that has been linked to several health benefits, including fat loss, improved metabolic function, and anti-inflammatory effects. CLA is thought to have anti-cancer properties as well, and consuming grass-fed beef is a great way to incorporate more of this beneficial compound into your diet.

Environmental and Ethical Benefits

Grass-fed cattle are generally raised in more sustainable, ethical conditions compared to grain-fed cattle. They are raised on rotated pasture, which promotes soil health and reduces the environmental impact of farming. Additionally, grass-fed cattle are less likely to be given growth hormones or antibiotics, making them a cleaner source of fat.

 

The Benefits of Using Tallow as Skincare

While beef tallow may seem like a cooking or culinary product at first glance, it has a long history of use in skincare, and modern research is backing up its effectiveness for various skin concerns. Here’s why you might want to incorporate tallow into your skincare routine:

Moisturizing and Hydrating

Tallow is naturally rich in saturated fats, which makes it an excellent moisturizer for the skin. These fats are similar to the oils found in human skin, allowing tallow to penetrate deeply and nourish from within. This helps to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and supple, especially for those with dry or cracked skin.

Contains Essential Fatty Acids

As we mentioned above, tallow from grass-fed cattle is particularly rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fats support the skin’s barrier function, helping it retain moisture and protect against environmental damage. Omega-3s are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated or sensitive skin, reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort.

Supports Skin Health

Because of its ideal fatty acid content, tallow has been traditionally used for soothing various skin conditions. Tallow also help speed up the regeneration of skin cells and promote the formation of new, healthy tissue. This makes tallow an ideal choice for anyone looking to improve their skin barrier and maintain healthy, glowing skin year-round. And because it it bioavailable and readily absorbed by our skin, it is non-comedogenic and great for all skin types.

100% Natural, Minimally Processed, and Non-Toxic

Unlike many commercial skincare products, tallow is completely natural and free from the artificial chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives often found in mainstream skincare. It is a great option for those with sensitive skin, allergies, or anyone looking to reduce their exposure to synthetic substances. Tallow is also biodegradable, making it a more environmentally-friendly alternative to many synthetic skincare ingredients.

Anti-Aging Properties

The high levels of saturated fats in tallow may help slow down the aging process of your skin. It works by keeping skin hydrated, preventing the breakdown of collagen, and fighting oxidative damage that leads to fine lines and wrinkles. This makes tallow a fantastic option for those looking to maintain youthful, glowing skin without relying on harsh chemicals.