CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s being praised as a healthier alternative to vegetable oils and a natural skincare remedy — but is beef tallow really worth the hype?
The fat comes from boiled beef, and it’s being promoted online as a healthier alternative to vegetable oils. Some influencers also claim it works as a natural moisturizer and acne treatment.
Nutrition experts, however, say tallow is a saturated fat that can raise cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease. Seed oils, despite their bad reputation online, are considered healthier because they contain unsaturated fats.
As for skincare, dermatologists say tallow can trap moisture, but it may also clog pores and cause acne.
There’s no strong evidence that it’s better than other products like Vaseline or coconut oil.
Experts agree that moderation is key. While tallow isn’t necessarily harmful, using it in excess — whether in food or on your skin — may do more harm than good.
