By: Travis Hutton

Let’s face it—skincare can feel like a guessing game. One week it’s all about marula oil, the next it’s oat this, algae that, and before you know it, your bathroom shelf looks like a farmer’s market. And somewhere among all the trend-chasing, tallow quietly steps in like, “Hey, I’ve been here all along.”

Yes, tallow. The old-school, rendered animal fat your grandma probably used without giving it a second thought. These days, it’s getting a fresh look—and not just from the natural skincare crowd. It turns out, our ancestors might’ve been onto something. And companies like Rendered Gold are bringing it back with care, transparency, and a lot of intention.

So how does tallow really compare to plant oils? Let’s take a closer (and more balanced) look.

First Things First: What Even Is Tallow?

Tallow is simply fat from cows, usually the hard, nutrient-rich kind found around the kidneys, called suet. It gets gently melted down and filtered to create a creamy, shelf-stable balm. Doesn’t exactly sound like skincare gold, right? But here’s the thing—it might be more beneficial than expected.

Tallow from grass-fed cows contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with anti-inflammatory fatty acids. It’s remarkably similar to the natural oils our skin produces, which means it can potentially absorb well, support the skin, and help avoid clogged pores.

This is what Rendered Gold is all about. They source high-quality, grass-fed suet and render it slowly, using traditional methods. They prioritize pure, skin-loving ingredients without cutting corners.

Now, Let’s Talk Plant Oils

Plant oils definitely have their place. From jojoba and argan to rosehip and squalane, there’s a lot to appreciate. They’re lightweight, often smell wonderful, and can offer antioxidants and hydration without feeling heavy.

But here’s the thing: not all plant oils are created equal. Some are incredibly delicate and may be prone to oxidation, especially if they’re stored improperly or exposed to too much light or heat. Once this happens, they might become irritating.

Ever slathered on a “nourishing” oil and felt greasy but still dry? Or broke out and had no idea why? It’s possible that your oil could have gone rancid or might not be ideal for your skin at that time.

Tallow vs. Plant Oils: How They Absorb

This is an important factor. Because tallow’s structure is so similar to your skin’s own sebum, it may absorb quickly and deeply. It doesn’t just sit there—it might help your skin function more effectively. It’s like giving your skin the raw materials it needs to repair, protect, and thrive.

Some plant oils absorb nicely too (looking at you, jojoba and squalane), but others can linger on the surface or leave a film. It really depends on your skin type and how the oil interacts with it.

That’s why many people with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin find relief with tallow. It can help heal from the inside out, rather than just coating the surface.

What About Nutrients?

Tallow, especially from grass-fed cows, is rich in:

• Vitamin A – often associated with skin cell turnover and potential healing benefits

• Vitamin D – may support skin immunity

• Vitamin E – thought to protect against environmental damage

• Vitamin K – may contribute to tone and healing

• Omega-3s & CLA – potentially calm inflammation

And they’re all naturally occurring, not added in later.

Plant oils offer their own nutrients—vitamin E is common, and some are high in linoleic acid, which can be beneficial for oily skin types. But the full spectrum of skin-building vitamins you get in tallow? That’s less commonly found in a single plant-based option.

A Word on Sustainability

This might surprise you, but tallow could actually be a sustainable choice. When it’s done right, it uses a part of the animal that would otherwise go to waste. At Rendered Gold, for example, the fat they use is a byproduct from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows. That means no additional animals are raised or harvested just for skincare.

Some plant oils, on the other hand, raise concerns about sustainability. Issues like deforestation, over-farming, and excessive water usage have been reported. So while “plant-based” sounds good, it’s worth considering the full context.

It’s not about one being “better” than the other universally. It’s about how things are sourced, processed, and used. And Rendered Gold puts a lot of effort into ensuring their process is clean, transparent, and respectful of both skin and planet.

So… Which One Should You Use?

Honestly? It depends on your skin, your lifestyle, and your preferences.

Tallow might be a good option if you:

• Struggle with dry, flaky, or sensitive skin

• Want something that could offer nourishment and healing

• Prefer products that are simple, natural, and time-tested

• Want to avoid synthetic ingredients and preservatives

Plant oils could be a better fit if you:

• Have oily or acne-prone skin that prefers lighter textures

• Follow a vegan lifestyle

• Enjoy switching up your routine with different oils

Some people even blend the two—light oils during the day, tallow at night. There’s no strict rule. It’s all about what works for your skin.

Final Thoughts

Skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You don’t need a dozen products with names you can’t pronounce. Sometimes the most effective solutions are the ones that have been around forever.

Tallow isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a return to something real. And companies like Rendered Gold are helping people rediscover just how simple, nourishing, and potentially skin-friendly it can be. Their small-batch, slow-rendered tallow balms are rooted in quality and tradition.

Want to take a peek behind the scenes? You can find them on Instagram (@renderedgold) and Facebook to see how the magic happens.

Because sometimes, the best thing you can put on your skin… is something it already understands.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical or skincare advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, individual experiences may vary. Please consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before making any changes to your skincare routine, especially if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.