5 Benefits of Tallow for Eczema
Eczema is a relatively common skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that can be difficult to manage. While there are many treatments available for eczema, some people have found relief by using tallow as a natural remedy. Let’s discuss 5 ways tallow can benefit eczema and explore why bison tallow is most likely a superior option to beef tallow specifically for this purpose.
1) Tallow is Moisturizing
One of the main benefits of using tallow for eczema is that it is an excellent moisturizer. Tallow is pure fat, which helps to hydrate and nourish dry, flaky skin. The fatty acids in tallow also help to restore the skin's natural barrier, which can be damaged in people with eczema. Tallow is rich in stearic and oleic acids, which both protect the epidermal outer layer and sebum. Both of these fatty acids moisturize and soften skin. You can read more about some of the health benefits of specific fatty acids in bison tallow here.
2) tallow is anti-inflammatory
Inflammation is a key component of eczema (as well as many other chronic conditions), and tallow has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Tallow contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to reduce inflammation. Tallow also contains numerous fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamins A, D, K, and E. CLA can help to reduce redness and irritation associated with eczema, and the vitamins certainly don’t hurt either. You can read more about some of the health benefits of specific fatty acids in bison tallow here.
3) tallow is hypoallergenic & non-comedogenic
Many people with eczema have sensitive skin and may be allergic or otherwise react to common skincare products. Tallow is hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. It is very similar in composition to the oils on human skin, and so makes an ideal choice for a natural skincare product. Because it is so similar to our own endogenously produced oils, tallow is also considered very low on the comedogenic scale. In other words, it’s unlikely to clog pores or create new skin problems entirely—an all-too-common occurrence for those with sensitive skin. This makes tallow a fantastic option for people with eczema seeking natural relief.
4) Bison tallow is likely better than beef for eczema
While beef tallow is an increasingly-popular choice for skincare today, bison tallow may be a better option, and especially for people with eczema. Bison tallow contains higher amounts of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) compared to beef tallow, and also has a significantly higher omega 3:6 ratio compared to beef tallow. Both of these are factors which may make bison more effective at reducing inflammation and controlling flares. Additionally, grass-fed bison will have the highest concentrations of CLA, Omega 3 fatty acids, and other healthful compounds like beta-carotene (this is why grass-fed bison tallow has such a rich, yellow-orange color) and vitamins. Nutrient-dense tallow is not only nutrient-dense on your dinner plate, but on your skin too!
5) Tallow is ethical, regenerative, & sustainable
Tallow, especially that sourced from grass-fed bison, is regenerative, ethical, and beyond-sustainable. Is there a better choice for skincare in these respects? It is counter-intuitive, but in order to get more bison in the world and on the Great Plains, we need to create an economic demand for them. By using bison tallow (and especially the 100% grass-fed stuff), one is supporting bison’s comeback on their historical native ranges. Not only are bison sustainable, they are regenerative—they’re actually responsible for the excellent quality of soil in the Great Plains! Bison have lived and defecated in North America for roughly 200,000 years, contributing to the nutrient and carbon content of the soil. It is no different when we have bison today, as they are carbon-sequestering machines, and are improving our soil for future generations of food production. We source our tallow from the happiest, most athletic bison on Earth (read about some of our certifications and what sets our bison apart here).
Key takeaways
Tallow can moisturize and protect the dry, flaky skin of eczema
Anti-inflammatory components and fatty acids in tallow can significantly reduce symptoms of eczema
Tallow is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, making it an ideal natural option for those with eczema and sensitive skin
Bison tallow is likely a better choice than beef tallow for those with skin conditions like eczema for myriad reasons, but mostly because it has higher concentrations of all the “Good stuff” and lower amounts of toxins
Tallow, and especially our 100% grass-fed & regeneratively-ranched bison tallow, is not only sustainable, but actually improves the environment and soil quality over time. Is there a more ethical option?
In conclusion, tallow is a natural remedy that is beneficial for some (but, of course not all) people with eczema. It is moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, hypoallergenic, and comedogenic. Bison tallow may be superior to beef tallow due to its higher CLA content, omega 3 fatty acids, and higher concentrations of nutrients and minerals. Using tallow as a skincare ingredient is also a sustainable and ethical choice. If you are looking for a natural remedy to manage eczema, consider trying grass-fed bison tallow.
