How to Use Tallow Soap

Let’s be honest — most of us have been sold a million different lotions, potions, and plastic bottles over the years. One for your face, one for your body, one for shaving, one for shampooing… and before you know it, your bathroom looks like a Boots clearance bin.

But what if one humble bar of tallow soap could do most of that — naturally?

Let’s have a proper chat about how to use tallow soap and why people are absolutely loving it for everything from cleansing to shaving to even washing their hair.

First up, what is tallow soap?

Tallow soap is made from rendered animal fat (usually beef), blended with nourishing oils and natural ingredients. Now I know that might sound a bit old-fashioned — but trust me, your skin will thank you.

Tallow is rich in vitamins A, D, E and K — the sort of goodness your skin actually recognises and knows what to do with. And because it closely resembles the oils your own body makes, it’s beautifully gentle, hydrating and soothing.

So, how do you use it?

1. As a daily cleanser (face + body)

Wet your skin and the bar, work up a creamy lather between your hands, and gently massage into your skin. Then rinse. That’s it. It leaves your skin feeling clean but never tight or squeaky.

You can use it every day without upsetting your skin barrier — especially if you're someone who reacts to high-street cleansers packed with perfumes, alcohols, or who-knows-what.

Pro tip: Follow up with a tallow moisturiser or balm if your skin is feeling a bit dry. They’re like the dream team.

2. As a shaving soap

Yep — this one’s a bit of a secret weapon. Because tallow soap creates such a creamy, cushiony lather, it’s perfect for shaving. It softens the hair, preps the skin, and helps the razor glide more smoothly.

You can use it on your legs, underarms, or even your face (hello, silky-smooth dads and bearded boyfriends). And because it’s so gentle, it leaves your skin calm instead of angry and red.

3. As shampoo (really!)

Here’s where it gets interesting. Some people swear by using tallow soap as a natural shampoo bar — and once your scalp adjusts, it can work beautifully.

It doesn’t strip your hair like traditional shampoo. Instead, it gently cleanses while leaving a bit of that natural moisture behind. If you’ve got a sensitive scalp, dry ends, or just want to avoid all the weird ingredients in most shampoos, it’s well worth a try.

A few notes if you’re giving it a go:
– Lather up in your hands and massage into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
– Rinse thoroughly. Like, really thoroughly.
– Some people like to follow up with an apple cider vinegar rinse (sounds mad, but it balances pH and adds shine).
– Give your hair a week or two to adjust — it can take a bit of time, but many people never look back.

So why are people switching to tallow soap?

• It’s natural and full of nourishing fats

• It’s multi-use (so you save money, space and plastic)

• It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin

• And… it just works

Plus, let’s be honest — there’s something really lovely about going back to basics and realising you don’t need a 10-step routine to have healthy, glowing skin.

Final thoughts?

Tallow soap might look simple, but it’s one of those old-school secrets that quietly outperforms everything else. Whether you’re washing your face, shaving your legs, or giving your scalp a reset — it’s a solid (and sustainable) little hero.

If you haven’t given it a try yet, consider this your sign.

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