FAQs

Why does the balm's consistency change with temperature?

Our balm is made from natural ingredients that respond to changes in temperature. At cooler temperatures, it may feel firmer and thicker, while in warmer conditions, it becomes softer and easier to apply. This is completely normal.

Why beef tallow?

Tallow, rendered from beef suet—the hard fat surrounding the kidneys and loins of cattle—has been used in skincare for centuries. It is highly beneficial for our skin because it provides a rich source of essential nutrients that the skin needs. Tallow is also considered noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn't clog pores. Due to its compatibility with our skin's natural sebum, tallow works effectively to moisturize, soothe, and repair the skin without causing pore blockage. It contains bioavailable vitamins A, B12, D, E, and K, as well as fatty acids that help soften, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin.

Where do you source your tallow?

We source beef suet from a few local farms in Latvia - all pasture raised.

Then we carefully render suet to remove impurities, producing pure tallow that’s perfect for both skin care and cooking.

How long will one jar last me?

We recommend using our products daily, or at least five days a week, to see skin improvements and experience the full benefits. A 2 oz jar typically lasts between one to two months, depending on the amount used and frequency of application. Fortunately, a little goes a long way. We suggest starting with an amount about half the size of a penny and working it into your skin. If you use the right amount, tallow balm won't feel greasy on your skin. It may take some practice to find the ideal amount that works best for you!

Is tallow suitable for oily skin?

Yes, absolutely! When your skin is stripped of its natural oils through excessive cleansing or washing, it often compensates by producing extra oil. A pure and effective moisturizer like tallow balm can help restore your skin's moisture balance, so it doesn't need to overproduce oil. By providing essential hydration, tallow balm keeps your skin balanced, happy, and healthy.

Does it smell?

You may notice a "beefy" smell when purchasing tallow from the grocery store. At Made Without, we process our tallow in a way that eliminates most, if not all, of the unpleasant odor, resulting in an odorless and pristine white product. We also add essential oils to some of our products, which contribute to a pleasant scent. We do not use any synthetic fragrances - we insist on using natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin. The essential oils are not added just for their aroma—they also provide additional benefits.

Is tallow good for acne-prone skin?

Yes, tallow can be highly beneficial for acne-prone skin! Grass-fed tallow is rich in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as skin-repairing nutrients that help nourish and support healthy skin. Its natural compatibility with our skin's sebum allows it to moisturize without clogging pores, potentially improving acne conditions.

However, it's important to recognize that skin health often reflects gut health. Acne is a form of inflammation that can be influenced by internal factors like diet and lifestyle. While tallow provides excellent external support, addressing gut health can lead to more significant and lasting improvements in your skin. Incorporating a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices can help manage inflammation from the inside out.

Is this product vegan?

No, our products are not considered vegan due to the use of tallow, which is derived from animal fat. Tallow contains bioavailable vitamin A (retinol), a form of vitamin A that is only available from animal sources and not found in vegan products. While vegetables like carrots provide beta-carotene—a precursor to vitamin A—they do not supply retinol directly. Retinol is highly beneficial for skin health, offering anti-aging properties, acne relief, and overall skin rejuvenation.

We are committed to responsible sourcing and utilize all parts of the animal to reduce waste. Our ingredients are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and effectiveness in our products.

Shipping

Orders are processed within 24-72 hours. Shipping times may vary. Please note that orders placed on Friday will be shipped the following week.