You can put beef tallow and salmon sperm on your face. But should you?

Key Points:

• Bryan Vander Dussen, a former dairy farmer, has transitioned to producing tallow balm from organ fat of farm-raised beef, catering to growing consumer interest in animal-based skin care products marketed as natural alternatives to synthetics.
• The rise in animal-derived cosmetics, including beef tallow and salmon sperm facials, is linked to consumer concerns about chemicals in personal care products and movements promoting pro-meat lifestyles, with demand increasing on social media and at spas.
• Experts caution that despite sustainability benefits and popularity, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of beef tallow and salmon sperm in skin care, and some formulations may cause irritation or have unpleasant odors.
• The trend reflects broader cultural and political influences, including a desire for transparency in product sourcing and a skepticism of synthetic chemicals, particularly among mothers and health-conscious consumers.
• Cosmetic chemists emphasize the importance of realistic expectations, noting that only a few ingredients like retinol and niacinamide have strong evidence for skin benefits, while the beauty industry often prioritizes novelty and aesthetics over proven efficacy.