Tail and Tallow Creams: We Tested Tradition with Science

Traditional or scientific?

Since the time of Ibn Sina, lard and tallow have been popularly used as "natural moisturizers" and "healing wounds." These natural oils, especially preferred in rural areas for skin problems like cracks, dryness, and even eczema, have now found their way into many commercial products.

So, are these oils really good for the skin? Can they be used by all skin types? Are there any risks?

We have examined both what comes from tradition and evaluated it in the light of scientific literature:

What is Tail and Suet Fat and What Does It Contain?

Tallow is an animal fat with a high saturated fat content that accumulates in the tail part of the sheep.
Kidney fat is a more concentrated fat, sometimes purified and called "tallow" , that is found around the organs of the animal (especially the kidneys).

These oils are increasingly appearing in some natural skin care formulas. They both have something in common:

• Contains high saturated fatty acids (especially stearic and palmitic acids )

• It carries some ingredients known for their collagen-supporting effects.

• With its dense structure, it creates a protective barrier against external factors.
  

Can It Be Used In Daily Routine?

Yes, it can be beneficial in some cases when used with the right formulation:

• Dry , crack-prone skin (e.g. cracked heels, dry knees and elbows)

• Supporting the repair of the skin barrier, especially in winter months

• Dry eczema or sensitive, dehydrated skin after atopic dermatitis (as a supplement)

• Can be used as a barrier supporter

However, it should be noted that it is not suitable for all skin types.

What Criteria Should Be Considered?

Some important points to consider with such products:

• Must be prepared in a sterile environment (homemade products carry the risk of microbial contamination)

• It must be cold pressed , purified and odorless for ease of use.

• It should be formulated with balancing plant oils (such as jojoba, shea, calendula)

Can Everyone Use It?

Even if all these conditions are met, almost no skin will be able to tolerate this cream except for very dry skin .

• Dry and sensitive skin, rosacea skin , oily eczema skin , oily skin and any skin that has been treated with retinoic acid derivatives cannot tolerate this oil.

Suitability for skin type must be evaluated with dermatological consultation.

Comedogenic Effect

Tail fat is rich in saturated fatty acids, which makes it a dense, thick barrier-forming substance , but also has a high comedogenic potential .

• Tail fat, which contains high amounts of fatty acids such as oleic acid and palmitic acid , can clog pores and cause comedone formation in oily and acne-prone skin types .

Due to its comedogenic effect, it is not recommended for acne-prone skin.

Oxidative Stability Problem

Animal-derived, high-saturated fat ingredients are prone to oxidation .
If not properly stabilized, it can trigger the formation of free radicals on the skin.
This can result in irritation , redness , and even barrier disruption on sensitive skin.

Microbial Risks

Forms of tail fat that are not produced under hygienic conditions carry the risk of microbial contamination .
This can lead to skin infection or allergic reactions .

Homemade formulas are high risk in this regard.

What Does Modern Literature Say?

Although there are not many direct clinical studies on tail fat in the modern literature, some “ tallow-based ” formulations:

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been observed

• It has been shown to support the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss.

However, it is emphasized that animal fats have a high comedogenic score and may be risky in long-term and large-area use .

Therefore, it should be evaluated for temporary, limited use and suitable skin types.

The effects of animal fats on the skin are still controversial and can pose a risk for many skin types. If:

• Supporting your skin barrier,

• Reducing redness and sensitivity,

• If you want to use a non-comedogenic, Malassezia-safe care product;

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