Does Tallow Cure Eczema? Tallow Soap and Balm for Eczema

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and rough. It weakens the skin’s barrier, a layer that is essential for keeping moisture in and protecting the body from outside elements like bacteria, pollutants, and allergens.

Eczema is a type of dermatitis, i.e., a group of conditions that cause skin inflammation. The common symptoms of eczema include:

• Dry skin,
• Itchy skin,
• Skin rash,
• Bumps on your skin,
• Thick, leathery patches of skin,
• Flaky, scaly, or crusty skin, and
• Swelling.

Several factors can cause eczema, such as:

• Immune System: If you have an allergic immune system, it overreacts to tiny irritants or allergens in your environment. It treats these substances, like dust or pollen, as harmful invaders like bacteria or viruses. This overreaction causes inflammation and leads to eczema symptoms on your skin [1].
• Genes: You're more likely to have eczema if your family has a history of eczema, asthma, or allergies [2].
• Environment: Many environmental factors can irritate your skin, such as smoke, air pollution, harsh soaps, and certain fabrics like wool. Low humidity can dry out your skin, while heat and high humidity can increase sweating, making itching worse [3].
• Emotional Triggers: Your mental health can impact your skin's health. High levels of stress, anxiety, or depression can lead to more frequent eczema flare-ups [4].

Although there's no certain cure for eczema, there are many ways to manage the symptoms. One of the best ways is to keep your skin moisturized. Using natural moisturizers like tallow can be very effective. But what exactly is tallow, and how does it help with eczema?

Learn More: The Effects of Tallow for Skin: Is It Good? Benefits and Side Effects

What Is Tallow?

Tallow is a type of fat that comes from around the organs of cows, mainly their kidneys and loins. The raw fat, known as suet, is coarse and grainy. To make tallow, they slowly melt suet and strain out the rough bits, leaving a smooth, solid product.

Tallow remains solid at room temperature and can be stored in the fridge for 12-18 months or up to two years in the freezer. It’s not only used for cooking but is also popular for making candles, soaps, and skincare products.

Here’s a table showing the nutritional composition of tallow [5]:

Tallow is a versatile ingredient used in cooking and skincare products. Its moisturizing properties make it especially helpful for managing eczema.

Learn More: 8 Best Beef Tallow Brands for the Carnivore Diet

How Does Tallow Help with Eczema?

Does tallow cure eczema? No, as there is no certain cure for eczema, but tallow relieves eczema symptoms, repairs the damaged skin barrier, and protects the skin without exposing it to the harsh ingredients in most commercial products. Here are some of the effects of tallow for eczema:

• Moisturizing Effects
• Balancing Fatty Acid Levels
• Repairing Skin Barrier
• Being Gentle on Your Skin
• Providing Nutrients and Absorption

Tallow Can Moisturize Your Skin

Tallow is a natural source of fat that can soothe skin irritation, repair the damaged skin barrier, and protect your skin without exposing it to the harsh chemicals of commercial products.

It’s one of the best natural moisturizers because it helps keep the skin hydrated, reduces itchiness, and allows the body to heal [6].

Tallow's texture prevents it from easily rubbing off and forming a protective layer that locks in moisture and shields the skin from pollutants.

Also, tallow is rich in stearic acid, which helps prevent water loss and protect the skin. Its molecular structure is similar to that of human sebum, the natural oils in our skin, making tallow more absorbable and effective than many commercial skincare products [7].

Tallow Can Balance Your Skin’s Fatty Acid Levels

Tallow helps relieve dry and flaky skin by restoring balance to the skin’s fatty acid levels. People with eczema often consume too many unsaturated fats and not enough saturated fats, which causes redness, irritation, and dryness.

Tallow is high in saturated fats, such as stearic and palmitic acids, which can help restore this balance [8].

Tallow Can Repair the Skin Barrier

The skin barrier, or epidermis, is the first line of defense against pollutants and allergens. Eczema weakens this barrier and makes the skin more vulnerable to irritants.

Tallow helps repair the skin barrier by forming a protective layer over dry and damaged areas. It allows the skin to heal and renew its natural defenses [9].

Tallow Is Gentle on Your Skin

Tallow is gentle on the skin, unlike many commercial eczema treatments that contain unnatural ingredients like chemicals and preservatives.

Some commercial eczema products, like lotion, are formulated as an emulsion of water and oil to promote fast absorption. However, because water and oil won't stay together naturally, these products must include preservatives to stabilize the emulsion.

Many people find that these artificial ingredients can worsen their symptoms. In contrast, tallow balm is completely natural, chemical-free, and less likely to cause adverse reactions.

Tallow Is Nutrient-Rich and Absorbable

Tallow balm is packed with essential vitamins and fatty acids that nourish the skin. It contains vitamins D, E, A, B1, and K2, which help protect against premature aging and support healthy skin cell function [10].

The fatty acids in tallow, such as stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids, form a protective barrier that helps the skin retain moisture [11].

Unlike many other chemical products, tallow balm is highly absorbable on the skin’s surface, which helps these nutrients nourish and repair the skin effectively.

Despite its benefits, tallow might not be suitable for everyone, as it can cause side effects in sensitive individuals.

Learn More: Lard vs. Tallow: How To Use These Fat Sources?

Potential Side Effects of Using Tallow for Eczema

While tallow can be beneficial for managing eczema, it's important to be aware of these potential side effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Some people might be allergic to tallow, which can lead to redness, itching, or swelling on the skin. To avoid this, try a small patch test on a small area of your skin before using tallow widely. It helps check if you have any allergic reactions to it.
• Skin Sensitivity: If you have very sensitive skin, tallow might irritate it and make it feel uncomfortable or inflamed. It’s important to monitor how your skin reacts when you first use tallow. If you notice any irritation, stop using it right away.
• Acne: Though it doesn’t happen often, tallow’s high fat content can sometimes clog pores, which might lead to acne or breakouts in some people. If you start seeing pimples or bumps, it’s better to stop using tallow and consider other options.

Based on these benefits and side effects, is it worth using tallow over other treatments?

Learn More: Suet vs. Tallow: How Do These Dietary Fat Resources Differ?

Tallow vs. Conventional Treatments to Cure Eczema

Some of the most common treatments for eczema include steroid creams and moisturizers. Steroid creams help reduce inflammation and are effective in calming flare-ups quickly. Comparing these treatments with tallow, we can find many differences in their:

• Ingredients
• Effectiveness
• Side Effects
• Long-Term Use

Ingredients

• Tallow: Tallow contains natural fats, including saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, resembling the skin’s natural oils. It is free from synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives.
• Steroids: Steroid creams contain synthetic corticosteroids that reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune response. These ingredients effectively control flare-ups but can lead to side effects with prolonged use.
• Moisturizers: Many commercial moisturizers contain water, oils, and additives, such as preservatives, fragrances, and emulsifiers. While these ingredients help with hydration, they can sometimes irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions.

Effectiveness

• Tallow: Tallow is a natural, animal-derived fat that provides deep moisturization and helps repair the skin barrier. It effectively reduces dryness and itching over time by locking in moisture and creating a protective layer. However, you need to apply it several times to see noticeable improvement.
• Steroids: Steroid creams are designed to reduce inflammation and redness quickly. They work by suppressing the immune system’s overreactive response. Steroids are highly effective for immediate relief and can quickly reduce symptoms during a flare-up, but they are not intended for long-term use due to potential side effects.
• Moisturizers: Regular use of moisturizers helps keep the skin hydrated and prevents the drying effects of eczema. While moisturizers are essential for managing dryness and maintaining skin health, they may not address the underlying inflammation as effectively as steroids.

Side Effects

• Tallow: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as redness, itching, or swelling. Tallow can also feel greasy and may not absorb quickly, which might be uncomfortable for some users.
• Steroids: Steroid creams can cause thinning skin, increased susceptibility to infections, and potential side effects like stretch marks or systemic absorption issues.
• Moisturizers: Depending on the formulation, moisturizers can cause irritation or allergic reactions, mainly if they contain fragrances, preservatives, or other potential irritants. Overusing certain moisturizers may also result in clogged pores or exacerbate acne in some individuals.

Long-Term Use

• Tallow: It is suitable for long-term use due to its natural and gentle composition. It helps maintain skin health and can be used consistently without the risk of side effects.
• Steroids: Steroids are not ideal for long-term use because of potential side effects like skin thinning and increased infection risk. They are usually recommended for short-term use to manage flare-ups.
• Moisturizers: They are safe for long-term use and essential for daily eczema management. Choosing the right moisturizer is important to avoid irritation and maintain skin hydration effectively.

To easily compare these three treatments, you can take a look at the following table summarizing their differences.

Although more research is needed on the long-term effects of tallow on eczema, several studies already highlight its benefits.

Learn More: Is Beef Tallow Healthier Than Vegetable Oil?

Scientific Studies on Tallow’s Benefits for Eczema

Here are some of the research studies exploring the effects of tallow on eczema.

A 2022 study explored the moisturizing effects of animal fats, including tallow, on the skin. The research found that natural moisturizers, compared to chemical products, help better maintain and restore skin flexibility by blocking moisture evaporation and inducing uniform exfoliation of old dead skin cells to maintain a smooth skin surface [12].

A 2017 comparative study by Malgorzata Kowalska and Mariola Mendrycka proves the impact of tallow on skin issues like eczema.

This study analyzed the effects of a topical emulsion containing tallow as the main ingredient. All 78 participants reported that the emulsion's moisturizing properties helped their skin [13].

Another 2017 review study published in Clinical Medicine & Research demonstrated that stearic acid could reduce skin inflammation, a key factor in managing eczema. These studies treated skin inflammation or eczema participants with stearic acid products, such as tallow.

Researchers measured the reduction in redness, swelling, and irritation over time compared to a control group. The results showed that by calming the inflammatory response, tallow may help alleviate the redness, swelling, and irritation associated with eczema flare-ups [14].

Also, a 2012 study by Marie Lodén published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology highlighted the importance of fatty acids in preserving the integrity of the skin barrier.

In this study, 50 children with atopic dermatitis were treated with a ceramide-rich mixture, including natural tallow, twice daily for 8 weeks.

The results showed a 40% reduction in water loss from the skin and better skin barrier function. The children had less redness and itching and showed overall improvement in their eczema symptoms [15].

So, as different studies show, tallow is effective in treating eczema, but it's important to use it correctly. Here are some tips to help you get the best results.

Learn More: Tallow Soap Benefits and Ingredients + How to Make

How to Use Tallow for Eczema?

Tallow can effectively soothe and moisturize skin, but it’s important to tailor its use to your needs. For the best results, always consult a doctor to determine the exact frequency and duration of use that’s right for you.

To use tallow:

• Start with clean, dry skin.
• Apply small tallow balm or cream directly to the affected areas.
• Gently massage it in until fully absorbed.
• Focus on areas with dryness, redness, or irritation.

For the best results, apply tallow 1-2 times daily, ideally after bathing when your skin is slightly damp.

Consistent daily use can improve your skin barrier, but consult your dermatologist to ensure you use it appropriately for your condition.

Although you can buy tallow, if you need a more cost-effective way, you can easily make tallow at home. This allows you to control the quality of the ingredients, save money, and avoid any unnecessary additives.

Learn More: The Benefits of Oil Cleansing for Skin: DIY Oil Cleanse at Home

Tallow Balm Recipe for Eczema

Here’s a simple recipe to make tallow balm for eczema that provides 1 cup of tallow balm.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of grass-fed beef tallow
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 10-15 drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the tallow in a boiler or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Heat gently until the tallow is fully melted.
2. Remove it from the heat, stir in the olive oil, and mix well.
3. Add the optional essential oils and stir well.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin. Let it cool at room temperature until it becomes solid. You can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
5. Start using it when the balm is set. You can apply a small amount to the affected areas of your skin as needed.

You can also use tallow soap for eczema, and it's easy to make these soaps at home with simple ingredients and instructions.

Learn More: Tallow Lip Balm Recipe: Simple and Tinted

How to Make Tallow Soap for Eczema Treatment?

You can make 7 standard-sized bars of tallow soap using the following ingredients and instructions.

Ingredients

• 16 oz. tallow
• 2 oz. lye (sodium hydroxide)
• 2 oz. coconut oil
• 6 oz. distilled water

Instructions

1. Add the lye slowly to the distilled water (never the other way around) in a heat-resistant container.
2. Stir gently until the lye dissolves. The mixture will heat up quickly, so set it aside to cool down.
3. Melt the tallow in a stainless steel pot or slow cooker over low heat.
4. Add coconut oil to the melted tallow and stir to mix well.
5. Let the lye solution and the oils cool to around 100-110°F (38-43°C), then slowly pour the lye mixture into the melted tallow and oils.
6. Use a stick blender to blend the mixture until it reaches a trace. When the mixture thickens, you can see trails on the surface when you drizzle the soap batter.
7. Pour the soap mixture into your mold, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Cover the mold with a towel or plastic wrap, and let the soap sit undisturbed for 24-48 hours.
9. Let it harden, then remove the soap from the mold and cut it into bars.
10. Allow the bars to cure in a cool, dry place for 4-6 weeks. This process helps the soap harden and ensures the lye is fully neutralized.

Learn More: Simple Tallow Soap Recipe: 7 Recipes to Try at Home

Conclusion

Does tallow cure eczema? No, but it can help relieve eczema symptoms if you're not allergic to it. The best tallow for eczema is beef tallow, as it’s richer in nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for skin health.

Before applying tallow, consult a doctor and do a patch test to ensure you're not allergic to tallow and to determine the right amount and frequency to use.