Exploring Bison Tallow: A Natural Skin Moisturizer
At Natural Products Expo West 2024, one standout product I discovered was Big Crazy Buffalo‘s bison tallow. Whether it’s due to having eczema or always seeking out natural, additive-free lotions and moisturizers, I’m always eager to try products like this when I come across them.
The one I tried this time had a delightful lemon scent and felt surprisingly refreshing, given it’s made from bison tallow.
However, the fact that it’s not whipped means you can’t scoop it with your fingers and apply it to your body, which is a bit disappointing. You have to rub it between your fingers and then spread it on your skin. But it’s truly effective, being bison tallow.
It moisturizes perfectly, doesn’t leave a greasy feeling after use, and feels great on the skin. Although bison tallow and beef tallow are said to be different, to be honest, I didn’t really feel much difference.
Bison tallow, like other animal fats, can offer benefits for skin health and care. Here are some reasons why bison tallow is considered good for the skin:
Moisturizing Properties: Bison tallow is rich in natural fats, particularly stearic acid and oleic acid, which are highly moisturizing. These fatty acids help to hydrate and nourish the skin, keeping it soft and supple.
Skin Barrier Protection: The fatty acids in bison tallow can help strengthen the skin’s natural barrier function. This barrier helps to retain moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollutants and bacteria.
Vitamins and Antioxidants: Bison tallow contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which can contribute to premature aging.
Non-Comedogenic: Tallow is non-comedogenic, meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores. This makes it suitable for various skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, when used in moderation.
Skin Absorption: The composition of bison tallow is similar to the natural oils produced by our skin. This similarity can allow for better absorption into the skin, providing deeper nourishment.
Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Some users report that tallow can help soothe inflammation and irritation in the skin. This can be especially beneficial for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin conditions.
Historical Use: Tallow has been used for centuries in traditional skincare and has a long history of being a reliable moisturizer and skin protectant.
I was curious and asked if bison were killed specifically for their tallow. I was told that the tallow comes from parts of bison that are already harvested for meat, and the leftover parts would otherwise be discarded. So, utilizing this otherwise wasted part could be environmentally beneficial, don’t you think?