10. Suet in Skincare — You Asked, We Answered

Curious about suet but still on the fence? Here are the most common questions we get—and straight-up answers to help you feel confident about what’s going on your skin.

Isn’t suet just beef fat?
Kind of, but not exactly. Suet is a specific type of fat found around the kidneys of cows. It’s denser, cleaner, and richer in nutrients than regular beef fat or muscle fat. Once rendered, it becomes tallow—a smooth, shelf-stable balm base that’s deeply nourishing and bioavailable.

Will it make my skin greasy?
Nope. High-quality tallow absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. It mimics the structure of your skin’s natural oils, so it soaks in instead of sitting on top.

Is it safe for acne-prone or sensitive skin?
Yes—for most people, it’s incredibly soothing. Tallow contains anti-inflammatory compounds like CLA and nourishing fats like stearic and oleic acid that help calm irritation and support the skin barrier. Many people with acne, eczema, or rosacea see major improvements when switching to tallow-based products.

What about the smell?
Raw suet has a beefy scent—but not our balm. We render and filter the suet four times using a low and slow method to remove impurities and neutralize the smell. What you’re left with is a clean, subtle base that blends beautifully with essential oils or natural fragrances.

Is it ethical to use animal fat?
Our suet is sourced from organic, grass-fed Irish farms where animals are raised with care. Suet is a byproduct—nothing is harmed just to make skincare. In fact, using it is a way to reduce waste and honor the whole animal. It’s a respectful, sustainable choice when done right.

How long does it last?
Tallow is naturally shelf-stable thanks to its saturated fat content. Stored in a cool, dry place, it can last up to a year or more without going rancid—no preservatives needed.

Does it work better than plant oils?
For many people, yes. While everyone’s skin is different, tallow tends to absorb more deeply and nourish more thoroughly than most plant-based oils alone. That’s why we combine it with oils like olive and jojoba—to give your skin the best of both worlds.

Still have questions? Reach out anytime. Or check out our full FAQ page for more questions and answers about tallow, ingredients, and how to get the most out of your Bee Balm.

Read next: How to Incorporate Suet-Based Products Into Your Routine