About Our Products (The Science)
We have handcrafted the perfect moisturiser using the finest, natural, organic ingredients.
If you can't eat it, why would you put it on your skin?
Purity
The purity of our ingredients is simply unmatched by any competitor:
- Beef Tallow: certified organic, grass fed, low-heat processed beef tallow from a regenerative farm in the English countryside
- Manuka Honey: raw, unfiltered, pesticide-free, extremely high MGO and UMF Manuka honey from New Zealand
- Royal Jelly: certified organic, low-heat processed, royal jelly extracted in a sterile atmosphere in the absence of oxygen, shipped in an isothermal box
- Olive Oil: certified organic, first cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil from Greece
- Jojoba Oil: certified organic, virgin, cold-pressed, 100% pure jojoba oil
No parabens, no preservatives, no junk, no words you can’t pronounce. Just pure, natural, real ingredients that are environmentally friendly and evolutionarily-consistent with what your skin craves.
Quality
We provide the highest quality of natural, pure tallow skincare products. All products are hand made, with hand-rendered organic grass-fed tallow, the finest quality manuka honey (this potent elixir is infused with the healing magic of 1000 MGO, 22+ UMF Manuka honey - the highest MGO and UMF found in any tallow moisturiser) and combined with 100% pure organic oils.
The Science
1) Tallow
Tallow is naturally rich in healthy fatty acids and vitamins that are essential for maintaining skin health and preserving natural moisture.
Tallow's fatty acids:
- Saturated fatty acids:
- Palmitic acid (26%): Forms a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and acting as an antimicrobial skin protectant.
- Stearic acid (14%): Helps maintain skin moisture, promotes repair, calms inflammation, and cleanses the skin.
- Myristic acid (3%): Moistens the skin and aids in the absorption of key vitamins and nutrients.
- Monounsaturated fatty acids:
- Oleic acid (47%): Moistens and softens the skin, locking in natural moisture.
- Palmitoleic acid (3%): Enhances skin barrier function, increasing elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids:
- Conjugated Linoleic acid (3%): Acts as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, maintaining a healthy skin microbiome and reducing the risk of skin conditions such as dermatitis and acne.
- Linolenic acid (1%): Conditions the skin, restores its vitality, and reduces inflammation, acne, and scarring.
Tallow's fatty acids provide a range of benefits, including hydration, protection, inflammation reduction, skin restoration, and help nourish and support your skin's health and natural moisture balance.
Tallow's Fat-soluble Bioavailable Vitamins:
Tallow is naturally rich in fat-soluble bioavailable vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12 and essential nutrients like choline and selenium - all key ingredients to skin health.
- Vitamin A: Reduces pigmentation and balances oil production.
- Vitamin B12: Promotes collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and signs of ageing.
- Vitamin D: Stimulates the expression of your natural antimicrobial peptides, which help protect against infections and maintain skin health and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, defending against environmental stressors.
- Vitamin E: is a natural antioxidant that soothes UV damage, supports collagen production, and improves blood flow for youthful and firm skin.
- Vitamin K: Improves blood circulation, increases skin oxygenation and protects against free radicals from UV damage.
- Choline: Restores elasticity and suppleness to sun-damaged skin.
- Selenium: Combats free radicals and inflammation caused by UV damage, stress, poor diet, and lack of minerals by fighting inflammatory cytokines, and may even prevent skin cancer.
Tallow's Growth Factors
- Epidermal growth factor (EGF): plays a role in skin cell proliferation and wound healing.
- Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β):
- TGF-β stimulates fibroblast activity, promoting collagen and elastin production. These proteins provide skin with its structure, elasticity, and youthful appearance as it can help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and improve skin firmness, leading to a more youthful appearance.
- TGF-β also plays a role in wound healing and inflammation control.
- TGF-β exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and irritation associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- TGF-β supports the production of essential skin barrier components, enhancing overall skin health and protection against environmental factors.
- Keratinocyte Growth Factor (KGF):
- KGF stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, the main cell type in the outermost layer of the skin.
- KGF helps maintain skin barrier function, promotes wound healing, and can reduce the appearance of scars.
- KGF supports the production of essential skin barrier components, enhancing overall skin health and protection against environmental factors.
- The proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts promoted by KGF speeds up wound healing and scar reduction.
- Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1):
- IGF-1 stimulates cell proliferation and collagen synthesis, contributing to skin repair and regeneration. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and protects against oxidative damage.
- Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF):
- This family of growth factors plays various roles in skin health, including stimulating collagen production, promoting angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) for improved nutrient delivery, and enhancing wound healing.
Tallow's Similarity to Human Sebum:
- Tallow's lipid profile closely resembles human sebum (your skin's natural oily substance produced by your sebaceous glands). This similarity means your skin actually understands what is being put on it so it is easily absorbed! Tallow works along side your sebaceous glands, replenishing and balancing your skin's natural lipid barrier, and maintaining your skin's health and moisture balance. Tallow is also non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn't clog your pores! All of this makes tallow an excellent choice for natural skincare routines for any skin type.
2) Royal Jelly
Delving deeper into the science behind royal jelly's potential skin benefits, we can explore specific molecular mechanisms and research findings:
Moisturisation and Hydration:
- Humectants: Royal jelly is rich in amino acids like proline and hydroxyproline. These act as humectants, attracting and retaining moisture from the environment, leading to improved skin hydration and a plumper appearance.
- Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): Royal jelly stimulates the production of GAGs, natural molecules in the skin that bind water and contribute to skin hydration and elasticity.
Collagen Production:
- 10-hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA): This fatty acid found in royal jelly can activate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production. Increased collagen synthesis results in firmer, thicker skin and diminished wrinkles.
- Royalactin: Another protein in royal jelly has shown potential to activate collagen synthesis through specific signalling pathways in skin cells.
Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing Properties:
- Decanal: This fatty acid has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing redness and swelling associated with skin conditions like eczema and acne.
- Apilysin: A peptide in royal jelly exhibits anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties through its interaction with immune cells. These peptides can disrupt the membranes of bacteria and fungi, inhibiting their growth and preventing infections.
Antimicrobial Properties:
- Lysozyme: This enzyme in royal jelly possesses antibacterial and antiviral activity, protecting the skin from harmful microorganisms and aiding in scar healing.
Overall Skin Health:
- Vitamin B complex: Royal jelly is a good source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6, all essential for various skin functions like cell regeneration, barrier function, and antioxidant protection.
- Minerals: Zinc, copper, and manganese present in royal jelly contribute to cell repair, enzyme activity, and antioxidant defence, promoting overall skin health.
3) Manuka Honey
This tallow skin balm isn't just another moisturiser; it's a potent elixir infused with the healing magic of 1000 MGO, 22+ UMF Manuka honey. This rare and powerful honey is a natural powerhouse renowned for its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Here's why its presence elevates this balm to an unparalleled level of skin love:
The Might of Methylglyoxal (MGO)
MGO, or Methylglyoxal, is the key compound behind Manuka honey's antibacterial prowess. At a potent 1000 MGO, this balm goes beyond superficial hydration to combat skin irritations, blemishes, and dryness caused by harmful bacteria. Imagine it as a tiny army of natural defenders shielding your skin from unwanted invaders.
The UMF Advantage
UMF, or Unique Manuka Factor, takes quality assessment a step further. It's not just about MGO; it's a holistic measure encompassing non-peroxide activity and leptosperin content, both of which contribute to Manuka honey's anti-inflammatory and wound-healing benefits. A 22+ UMF rating signifies exceptional quality, ensuring you're experiencing the full spectrum of this precious honey's healing potential.
Antimicrobial Powerhouse:
- Honey-derived Unique Antimicrobial Compounds (HDUAPs): These specialised antibacterial and anti-fungal compounds, like Manuka honey's signature UMF (Unique Manuka Factor), work by disrupting bacterial cell membranes and inhibiting their growth. This combats acne-causing bacteria and aids wound healing.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Naturally generated hydrogen peroxide in Manuka honey contributes to its antimicrobial activity, further protecting the skin from harmful microorganisms.
Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing:
- Propolis: This resinous bee product in honey possesses anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing redness and irritation associated with conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Flavonoids and phenolic acids: These antioxidants counteract free radical damage, reducing inflammation and promoting overall skin health.
Hydration and Wound Healing:
- Humectant properties: Manuka honey's sugars like fructose and glucose act as humectants, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, leading to improved hydration and a plumper appearance.
- Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) stimulation: Manuka honey can promote the production of GAGs, natural molecules that bind water and contribute to skin hydration and wound healing.
Cellular Regeneration and Anti-Aging:
- Leptosperin: This signature bioactive compound in Manuka honey can stimulate collagen production in skin cells, potentially reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.
- Antioxidant protection: Manuka honey's wealth of antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolics combats free radical damage, protecting skin cells from oxidative stress and promoting a youthful appearance.
Beyond the Individual Compounds:
- Synergistic Effects: The magic of Manuka honey lies in the synergistic interplay of its various components. Each element amplifies the benefits of others, creating a potent blend for skin health.
- Anti-biofilm Activity: Manuka honey can disrupt bacterial biofilms, organised communities of bacteria that are difficult to eradicate with conventional antibiotics. This can be beneficial for treating chronic skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
4) Olive Oil
Antioxidant Powerhouse:
- High Phenolic Content: EVOO boasts a diverse array of phenolic compounds, potent antioxidants like hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal. These scavenge free radicals, protect skin cells from oxidative damage, and contribute to a youthful appearance.
- Vitamin E: This naturally occurring vitamin in EVOO is another potent antioxidant, further shielding the skin from environmental stressors and preventing premature ageing.
Moisturising and Barrier Function:
- Oleic Acid: This monounsaturated fatty acid constitutes a major portion of EVOO and readily absorbs into the skin. It provides excellent emollience, locking in moisture and leaving the skin soft and supple.
- Squalene: This naturally occurring lipid in EVOO mimics the skin's sebum, enhancing barrier function and protecting against moisture loss.
Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing:
- Oleocanthal: This phenolic compound found in EVOO exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing redness and irritation associated with conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Oleic Acid: Studies suggest oleic acid possesses anti-inflammatory effects, further contributing to skin's overall health and comfort.
Beyond the Individual Components:
- Synergistic Effects: The magic of EVOO lies in the synergistic interplay of its various components. Antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins work together, amplifying each other's benefits and creating a potent blend for healthy skin.
5) Jojoba Oil
Mimicking Human Sebum:
- Liquid Wax Ester Composition: Unlike most plant oils, jojoba oil consists mainly of wax esters, strikingly similar to our skin's natural sebum. This similarity allows it to seamlessly integrate with the skin, without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
- Balancing Sebum Production: Jojoba oil can trick the skin into thinking it's producing enough sebum, potentially regulating sebum production for both oily and dry skin types. This helps maintain a healthy oil balance and prevents blemishes in oily skin, while promoting hydration in dry skin.
Moisturising and Suppleness:
- Humectant Properties: Jojoba oil contains small amounts of humectants like glycerol, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin's outer layer. This keeps the skin hydrated and plump, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Emollient Effects: The wax esters in jojoba oil act as emollients, forming a protective film on the skin's surface that prevents moisture loss and enhances suppleness.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Benefits:
- Fatty Acid Profile: Jojoba oil's unique fatty acid composition, dominated by eicosenoic acid, demonstrates mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. This can help inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria and potentially manage fungal skin conditions.
Anti-Inflammatory and Wound Healing:
- Vitamin E: Jojoba oil is a good source of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that combats free radical damage and reduces inflammation. This can alleviate redness and irritation associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Wound Healing Properties: Studies suggest jojoba oil may promote wound healing by stimulating collagen production and cell proliferation. Its antibacterial properties further contribute to a healthy healing environment.
Beyond the Individual Components:
- Synergistic Effects: The interplay of jojoba oil's unique composition - wax esters, humectants, fatty acids, and vitamin E - creates a synergistic effect, amplifying its overall benefits for the skin.
- Non-Comedogenic and Hypoallergenic: Jojoba oil's non-comedogenic nature makes it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic qualities further minimise the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
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Scientific Papers Supporting these Claims:
1. Royal Jelly:
- 10-Hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic Acid Stimulates Collagen Synthesis and Suppresses Melanin Production in Human Dermal Fibroblasts: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31820078/
- Apilysin from Royal Jelly Inhibits the Inflammatory Response and Promotes Wound Healing in Human Keratinocytes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6626366/
2. Manuka Honey:
- The Unique Antibacterial Properties of Manuka Honey: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5424551/
- Non-Peroxide Antibacterial Activity of Manuka Honey Against Staphylococcus aureus Forms Biofilms: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3322633/
3. Beef Tallow:
- Ceramide Composition of Beef Tallow and its Potential Skin Benefits: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32266282/
- Conjugated Linoleic Acid in Beef Tallow and its Anti-inflammatory Properties: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19846417/
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO):
- Oleocanthal and Oleic Acid: Anti-inflammatory Effects and Potential for Skin Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3689195/
- Squalene: A Multifunctional Lipid with Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7911491/
5. Jojoba Oil:
- Wax Ester Composition of Jojoba Oil and its Sebum Mimicry Properties: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16461689/
- Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Jojoba Oil: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5571488/
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Ethical Considerations
Organic tallow can have environmental benefits and be considered a sustainable choice for skincare and other uses. Here are some reasons why organic tallow can be beneficial for the environment and contribute to a healthier planet:
- Planet Friendly:
- Renewable: Tallow is a natural and renewable resource, and its utilisation helps reduce the demand for synthetic or petroleum-based alternatives. This can contribute to a more sustainable and balanced use of resources.
- Biodegradable: Our organic tallow is biodegradable, which means it breaks down naturally and does not accumulate in the environment like other synthetic skincare products. When tallow-based products eventually reach the end of their life cycle, they can degrade over time without leaving behind harmful residues or polluting the ecosystem.
- Reduces Chemical Usage: Organic farming practices prohibit the use of synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). By choosing organic tallow, you support the avoidance of these chemicals in livestock production, which can have positive impacts on soil and water quality, biodiversity, and human health.
- Low Carbon Footprint (Local and Sustainable Production): Tallow has a lower carbon footprint compared to some alternative ingredients commonly used in skincare products. Our tallow is sourced from local organic and regenerative farming practices, and thus contributes to a more sustainable and carbon-neutral approach. Using local tallow also contributes to sustainable agriculture and promote a more localised, resilient food system.
- Regenerative Agriculture: Organic tallow can be sourced from animals raised in regenerative agricultural systems. These systems prioritise soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem restoration. By supporting regenerative farming practices, the use of organic tallow contributes to healthier soils, increased carbon sequestration, and improved overall ecosystem resilience.
- Animal Welfare Considerations: Organic farming standards typically include requirements for humane animal treatment, access to pasture, and natural feeding practices. By choosing organic tallow, you support ethical and responsible animal husbandry practices, ensuring that the animals are treated with care and respect.
- Utilisation of By-Product: Our organic tallow is derived from the fat of cows, which have been raised in organic, sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Our tallow is organic, high quality, grass-fed, pasture-raised, ethically and humanely sourced. By using tallow, we make use of a by-product that would otherwise go to waste. Instead of being discarded, the fat is repurposed and transformed into a valuable resource, reducing waste in the agricultural industry.
- Local Economic Support, Transparency and Traceability: By purchasing organic tallow from local farmers or small-scale producers, you contribute to the growth of local economies. Supporting local businesses and producers helps foster community development, resilience, and self-sufficiency. Opting for organic tallow allows for greater transparency and traceability in the supply chain. By choosing products from trusted sources and brands that prioritise organic certifications, you can have more confidence in the quality, integrity, and sustainability of the tallow used in the products you purchase.
- Peace Of Mind: Organic tallow is a healthier alternative to certain synthetic ingredients commonly found in skincare products. It is free from potentially harmful additives, chemicals, and artificial fragrances, reducing the risk of skin irritation or adverse reactions. Choosing organic tallow-based skincare products can promote healthier skin while minimising exposure to potentially harmful substances.
We take the ethical considerations of producing our tallow very seriously and always ensure it come from cows with no growth hormones, GMOs or other nasties.
It's important to note that the use of organic tallow should be done responsibly and in accordance with ethical and sustainable practices. Choosing products from reputable sources that prioritize animal welfare, organic farming practices, and environmental stewardship further enhances the positive impact of using organic tallow.
By recognizing the value of organic tallow and understanding that it is derived from animals that would have died anyway for various purposes, we can utilize this resource efficiently and contribute to a more sustainable and conscious approach to skincare and other industries.
By considering these additional points, it becomes evident that organic tallow offers numerous environmental and personal health benefits. Its utilization supports sustainable agriculture, reduces waste, and contributes to a more ethical and conscious approach to skincare and other industries.
- There is nothing wrong with using tallow when you know you are using an organic, high quality, grass-fed, pasture-raised, ethically and humanely sourced tallow (like we use in all our products).
- Factory farmed cattle are NOT a good source of tallow.
- Ensure your tallow-based products are made only with tallow rendered from family farms that raise their cattle as nature intended – with plenty of grass, sunshine and zero antibiotics or steroids.
Storage
Store in a cool dry place, out of direct sunlight. Refrigeration is not needed as the product is shelf-stable, however, refrigeration will extend the shelf-life.
Usage
Always do a patch test before use.