May: Unpopular Opinions Pt 1: Don’t use Honey in Tallow!
May’s “unpopular opinion” might ruffle a few feathers, but it’s rooted in something more important than trends: formulation integrity. As Edina - Botanical Skincare & Organic Apothecary (Instagram @cowboynco) explains, “Honey and tallow don’t belong together,” and the reasoning is grounded in basic cosmetic science. Tallow, in its pure form, is naturally anhydrous—completely free of water—which is exactly what allows it to remain shelf-stable without the need for preservatives. The moment water enters the equation, everything changes.
That’s where honey becomes an issue. While it’s often praised for its skin-loving properties, it still contains water. This seemingly small addition creates a ripple effect: the formula now requires a proper preservative system, shelf life becomes unpredictable, and the risk of microbial growth increases significantly over time. What started as a simple, nourishing balm can quietly become unstable or even unsafe.
Once water is added to a product, preservatives become necessary—but that comes with trade-offs. Common options like parabens and formaldehyde-releasing agents have raised concerns for their potential to mimic hormones in the body, which may contribute to endocrine disruption. Some preservatives can cause skin irritation, dryness, or sensitivity—especially for those seeking a more natural, minimal approach to skincare. This is why keeping tallow anhydrous matters: it avoids the need for preservatives altogether and keeps the formulation simple, stable, and more aligned with a holistic philosophy.
This concern isn’t just theoretical—it shows up in real-world formulation mistakes. From fresh goat milk added into balms to botanicals that haven’t been properly dried, there’s a pattern of prioritizing aesthetics or marketing appeal over stability. But skincare isn’t just about what sounds luxurious or looks appealing on a label. It demands an understanding of preservation, compatibility, and safety. Skipping that knowledge doesn’t just affect product quality—it can directly impact the skin of the person using it.
So while I’ve gotten multiple requests and recommendations to start a whipped Tallow and Honey lotion, I prefer to leave my ingredient list as short as possible, BUT THERE’S A CURE!!! If you still love the idea of combining honey and tallow, there is a safer way to do it. Instead of mixing it into your full jar, simply blend a small amount of tallow with honey in your hand right before application. This method gives you the same sensory experience without compromising the integrity of your product. It’s a small adjustment, but one that respects both the science behind formulation and the health of your skin.
