This simple, skin-loving homemade tallow soap is easy to make and the best bit, it contains no nasties.

Homemade Tallow Soap

This homemade tallow soap is gentle, moisturising and nourishing, suitable for all skin types. It is a creamy soap that lathers up nicely and really hydrates the skin.

For those with dry skin, you can add a touch of jojoba or argon oil if you wish.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, adding tea tree essential can work wonders. A little activated charcoal could also be added.

Why use Beef Tallow?

The fats that are found in beef tallow are very compatible to those in our skin.

It is rich in vitamins such as A,D,E and K, in antioxidants and other nutrients that all help with penetrating the skin, preventing water loss and is perfect for all ages from babies with diaper rash all the way to those looking for an anti-aging moisturiser.
This raw beef fat that has been rendered to remove impurities, has been used for a very long time in skincare products.

The process of rendering is easy to do. Just gently and slowly heat some finely-chopped suet (also known as raw beef fat) in a slow cooker on low until the cracklings form. Then, strain the mixture and there you have it.

Toxins are usually stored in the fat, so using organic beef fat is the best. If you have your own organic cattle, then that is even better.

Types of Tallow

There are many different types of tallow that come from different animals.

This balm is best made with beef tallow, though I have heard of some people using deer tallow for it as well.

Pig tallow is not the best for this balm.

Depending on what tallow you are using, you may find that some are harder at room temperature than others. If your tallow is hard at room temperature, you want to decrease the amount of beeswax in this recipe or even leave it out altogether. Though, if your tallow is soft, than you may want to add a little more to make sure that your lip balm is at a good consistency.

Tallow Soap Tips

Once melted the tallow can be infused with a dried, medicinal herb such as calendula, or lavender. To do this, leave the tallow in the double boiler over very low heat for about 1 hour to infuse. Then strain out the medicinal herb and continue on with the recipe.
This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled
Be mindful of who will be using the soap when adding essential oils as some people can’t use some oils and some oils can’t be used on young children or pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Some essential oils should not be used on children under 10. Do your research before adding and using any essential oils!
Don’t use on skin with open wounds or cuts.
Mica powder can be added to give your soap some colour.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are potent, and need to be diluted. As this soap is being used on your body, you will need to use essential oils that are gentle enough to be applied to your skin – and use in the correct quantities. Be careful to avoid sensitive areas like your eyes.

Lavender essential oil helps calm and relax the mind and body. It also may help with fighting anxiety and depression.
Other essential oils that could be added to this balm include: Frankincense, peppermint, chamomile, steam-distilled lemon or other citrus essential oils.

Ingredients for Making Tallow Soap

To make 4 ½ bars of soap (if using the same mould), you will need:

½ lb Goat’s Milk Melt and Pour Soap Base (227g)
12 Drops Essential Oils such as Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Bergamot (optional)
1 TBSP Rendered Beef Tallow
Soap Mould

Making Tallow Soap Bars

Cut the soap base into cubes that are around 1 inch in size.

Place into a microwave safe measuring cup. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, remove and stir, then heat for additional 30 second increments, until fully melted, stirring well between each heating session. This can also be done in a double boiler.

Once completely melted, add the tallow and mix through until completely melted.

Let it cool for a few minutes, then add the essential oils, if using and keep stirring.

Pour into the soap mould and let sit until hardened.

Remove from the mould and enjoy!

More Tallow Recipes

Storing Tallow Soap

The finished tallow soap bars should be stored in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh. When stored correctly, they should last up to 12 months.