Tail and Tallow Creams: We Tested Tradition with Science

Traditional or Scientific?

Suet and tallow, since the time of Ibn Sina, have been used among the public as "natural moisturizers" and "good for wounds." Especially in rural areas, these natural oils, preferred for issues like cracked skin, dryness, and even eczema, have started to find their place in many commercial product forms today.

So, do these oils really benefit the skin? Can every skin type use them? Are there risks?

For you, we have both examined what comes from tradition and evaluated it in light of scientific literature:

What are Suet and Tallow, and What Do They Contain?

Suet (Kuyruk yağı) is an animal fat rich in saturated fat, accumulated in the tail region of a sheep.
Tallow (İç yağı) is a denser fat found around the animal's organs (especially the kidneys), sometimes purified and referred to as "tallow."

These fats are increasingly found in some natural skincare formulations. Common to both are:

• High saturated fatty acid content (especially stearic and palmitic acid)
• Presence of certain components known for their collagen-supporting effects
• Their dense structure which forms a protective barrier for the skin against external factors.

Can It Be Used in a Daily Routine?

Yes, in some cases, when used with the right formulation, it can be beneficial:

• Dry, prone-to-cracking skin (e.g., heel cracks, knee-elbow dryness)
• To support skin barrier repair, especially during winter months
• In sensitive, dehydrated skin after dry eczema or atopic dermatitis (as a supportive measure)
• Can be used as a barrier supporter

However, it should be noted that it is not suitable for all skin types.

What Criteria Should Be Considered?

• Should be prepared in a sterile environment (homemade products carry a risk of microbial contamination)
• Should be cold-pressed, purified, and made odorless for user comfort
• Should be formulated in a balanced way with botanical oils (e.g., jojoba, shea, calendula)

Can Everyone Use It?

Even if all these conditions are met, almost no skin type other than very dry skin will tolerate this cream.

• Dry and sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin, seborrheic eczema-prone skin, oily skin, and any skin treated with retinoic acid derivatives will not tolerate this oil.

Suitability for skin type must be evaluated with dermatological consultation.

Comedogenic Effect

Suet is very rich in saturated fatty acids. While this property makes it a dense, thick barrier-forming agent, it also carries a high comedogenic potential.

• Especially suet, where fatty acids like oleic acid and palmitic acid are present in high proportions, can clog pores and lead to comedone formation in oily and acne-prone skin types.

Due to its comedogenic effect, it is not recommended for acne-prone skin.

Oxidative Stability Issue

Animal-derived ingredients with high saturated fat content are prone to oxidation.
If not properly stabilized, they can trigger free radical formation on the skin.
This can result in irritation, redness, and even barrier disruption in sensitive skin.

Microbial Risks

Suet formulations that are not produced under hygienic conditions carry a risk of microbial contamination.
This can lead to skin infections or allergic reactions.

Homemade formulations are highly risky in this regard.

What Does Modern Literature Say?

Although there aren't many direct clinical studies on suet in modern literature, in some "tallow-based" formulations:

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been observed.
• It has been shown to support the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss.

However, it is emphasized that animal fats have a high comedogenic score, and therefore, long-term and widespread use may be risky.

For this reason, it should be considered for temporary, limited use and suitable skin types.

The effects of animal fats on the skin are still controversial and can pose risks for many skin types. If you:

• Want to support your skin barrier,
• Reduce redness and sensitivity,
• Want to use a non-comedogenic, Malassezia-safe skincare product;

Luishe Tokyo Serum Beta, with its madecassoside, beta-glucan, and centella asiatica content, offers light yet effective care for your skin.

---

References

1. Elias PM. (2005). Stratum corneum defensive functions: an integrated view. J Invest Dermatol. 2005;125(2):183-200. PMID: 16098026
2. Proksch E, Brandner JM, Jensen JM. (2008). The skin: an indispensable barrier. Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(12):1063-72. PMID: 19043850
3. Draelos ZD, DiNardo JC. (2006). A re-evaluation of the comedogenicity concept. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006;54(3):507-12. PMID: 16488301
4. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. (2018). Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(1):70. PMID: 29280987