What Is Tallow?
Tallow is rendered beef fat. A traditional, time-tested ingredient that humans have used for centuries to nourish and protect skin. At Hearth & Hide, ours is sourced directly from grass-fed cattle from Cloudy Peaks Station located in the Mackenzie Country, as part of a full-circle supply chain we're proud of.
Why Does It Work So Well?
Tallow's fatty acid profile closely mirrors that of human skin. It's rich in oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. The same building blocks your skin is made of. This biocompatibility means your skin recognises it, absorbs it readily, and doesn't have to fight it.
- Oleic acid – deeply moisturising and skin-softening
- Palmitic acid – supports the skin barrier
- Stearic acid – helps restore and protect
- Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E & K – naturally present and bioavailable
How Does It Compare?
Many modern moisturisers rely on plant-derived oils or petroleum-based ingredients. While some plant oils are beneficial, they often lack the full fatty acid spectrum that tallow provides. Petroleum-based products (like mineral oil or petrolatum) sit on top of the skin rather than working with it.
Tallow works with your skin biology (not against it).
Is It Ethical?
We believe in using the whole animal. Our tallow is a by-product of the meat industry. Using it means less waste and more respect for the animal. It's a return to the kind of resourcefulness that defined land-based living for generations.
Will It Smell or Feel Greasy?
Our tallow is carefully rendered and blended. The tallow carries a light natural scent, complemented by carefully selected essential oils
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tallow suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes. Because tallow is so biologically similar to human sebum (oil), it's often well-tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin types.
Is it suitable for the face?
Absolutely. Many of our customers use our tallow balm as a daily facial moisturiser.
Where does your tallow come from?
Our tallow is sourced from grass-fed cattle from Cloudy Peaks Station in Mackenzie Country region of New Zealand's South Island. The same land that inspires everything we make.