The Beef Tallow Beauty Trap: Why Your Skincare Routine Might Be Low-Key Messing with Your Hormones

I have been getting so many questions about this new trend and so many people asking me what my thoughts are on it and if I use beef tallow for my skincare. So lets dive in 🏊

Okay, babes, let’s talk beef tallow.

Yes, the same stuff that’s been getting all this buzz as the next big skincare miracle. People are out here slathering it on their faces like it’s the fountain of youth, but let’s pump the brakes for a sec. I mean, we’re not here to start a beauty trend that messes with your hormones, right?

Sure, beef tallow sounds like a natural option, all rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and good vibes. But hold on—before you dive into your new routine and rub this cow fat all over your skin like you’re some kind of wellness witch, let’s get real about what’s happening inside your body when you do.

Beef Tallow + Your Hormones = A Total Hot Mess

Here’s the tea, Moo-Lovers: when it comes to using beef tallow in your skincare routine, you could be unknowingly messing with your hormone balance. And I’m not just talking about pimples or dry patches — I’m talking full-on hormone chaos, especially for us women.

So, here’s the science (because I’m all about keeping it real, but with facts): beef tallow is packed with omega-6 fatty acids. These little troublemakers can increase the production of inflammatory molecules (aka prostaglandins) in your body. And inflammation? Oh honey, inflammation is like the villain in your hormone story. It messes with your endocrine system, causing your estrogen and progesterone to go rogue. Next thing you know, you’ve got irregular periods, breakouts, mood swings, or worse. Hello, acne flare-ups and “what the heck is going on with my cycle?” moments.

The Thyroid, Baby: The Silent Victim

Now, if you’re slathering beef tallow on your neck or thyroid area (and let’s be honest, some of you totally are), you might be kicking your thyroid’s hormones to the curb. The thyroid is responsible for keeping your metabolism, energy, and overall balance in check. When you put a greasy layer of tallow directly on that area, you could be messing with its ability to function properly. That’s not the vibe we’re going for.

It gets worse. If the cows you’re sourcing that tallow from were treated with hormones or antibiotics (which, spoiler: they probably were), those chemicals could seep into your bloodstream and disrupt your delicate hormonal balance. And thatcan affect everything from your mood to your fertility to your skin.

The Ugly Side Effects:

Let's talk skin. Beef tallow may initially make your face feel all buttery smooth, but don't get too comfy. This heavy, greasy fat can clog your pores and leave you with a collection of blackheads and breakouts. Not to mention, it can mess with your skin’s natural oil production. If you’ve got sensitive or acne-prone skin, beef tallow is the ultimate party crasher.

But Don’t Worry, I Got You. Here’s the Fix.

If you’re ready to ditch the beef tallow (because, trust me, you are) and still want your skin to glow like the goddess you are, let’s talk Ayurvedic and herbal alternatives that will give you all the hydration and none of the hormone drama.

1. Coconut Oil Oh, you thought coconut oil was just for your hair? Think again, babe. It’s packed with medium-chain fatty acids that hydrate without clogging pores. Plus, its antimicrobial properties make it perfect for acne-prone skin. So, go ahead — slather it on without the beefy consequences.

2. Neem OilNeem is like that one friend who’s always got your back, especially when it comes to fighting inflammation. This Ayurvedic gem balances your skin, keeps acne at bay, and even helps with hyperpigmentation. It’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, so say goodbye to breakouts and hello to clear, balanced skin.

3. Jojoba OilJojoba oil is like the unsung hero of skincare. It mimics your skin’s natural sebum, so it hydrates without overwhelming your pores. It’s perfect for all skin types, especially if you’re dealing with combination or oily skin. Jojoba’s got that ‘I’m a skincare pro’ vibe.

4. Argan OilArgan oil is what dreams are made of. Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it nourishes your skin without weighing it down. If you’re looking to lock in moisture and improve elasticity, argan oil is your go-to. Plus, it’ll give you that dewy glow we all crave.

5. Rosehip OilFor skin that’s glowing and revitalized, rosehip oil is a game-changer. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and essential fatty acids, making it perfect for regenerating skin cells and tackling uneven pigmentation. Plus, it smells like a spa day. Yes, please.

6. TurmericYou’ve heard of the magic of turmeric, right? This Ayurvedic powerhouse fights inflammation like a champ and helps brighten your complexion. It’s especially good for acne scars or hyperpigmentation — just mix some turmeric with honey or yogurt for a DIY glow mask. Your skin will be like, “Thank you, queen!”

7. Castor Oil is the ultimate thick and hydrating oil, perfect for dry skin. It’s packed with ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe irritation and even promote the production of collagen. Castor oil is also great for reducing acne scars and helping with skin regeneration. So go ahead, make it part of your nighttime routine and wake up with plump, hydrated skin.

8. Shea Butter is a moisturizing superhero. Packed with vitamins A and E, this rich butter nourishes your skin deeply, providing moisture without clogging pores. It’s fantastic for everything from dry patches to stretch marks and even works wonders on eczema or sunburns. If you’re looking for a thicker, luxurious option to lock in hydration, shea butter’s your girl.

   
   

K-Beauty Secrets: Collagen and Ancient Wisdom for Youthful Skin

If there’s one thing the world can agree on, it’s that Korean skincare is basically the holy grail of youthful, glowing skin. From the iconic “glass skin” look to their dewy, plump complexions, it’s no wonder K-Beauty routines have taken over the skincare game. But what’s the real magic behind their radiant skin? Spoiler alert: It’s not just snail mucin and 12-step routines — it’s collagen, baby!

Collagen: Your Skin’s Bestie

Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping our skin bouncy, firm, and wrinkle-free. Think of it like the scaffolding that holds everything up. As we age, our collagen production starts to slow down (rude, right?), leading to sagging skin, fine lines, and that “I-need-10-hours-of-sleep” look.

Korean skincare is all about preventing that from happening. Instead of waiting until things head south, they focus on maintaining collagen levels early on. Enter collagen-infused skincare products — from serums to sheet masks — designed to plump up the skin and keep it youthful.

But here’s where Koreans really win the collagen game — they don’t just slather it on, they eat for it too.

Broth Over Beef Tallow

While some cultures turn to beef tallow for skin-nourishing fats, Koreans traditionally prefer lighter, collagen-rich foods. Think mineral-packed broths, gelatinous stews, and nutrient-dense soups. Bone broth, often made from chicken or fish bones, is a staple in Korean cuisine and a major collagen booster. It’s slow-cooked for hours to release all those glorious amino acids that keep skin firm and hydrated.

Dishes like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and seolleongtang (ox bone soup) are packed with collagen goodness. And don’t forget the jelly-like delicacies like nokdu jeon (mung bean pancakes) or korean pork trotter jelly, which are naturally rich in gelatin. They nourish your body from the inside out, giving you that “I woke up like this” glow.

Ancient Korean Skincare Secrets You Need to Steal

But collagen isn’t the only star of the show. Koreans have been using traditional herbal remedies and time-tested techniques for centuries to keep their skin flawless. Here are some tried-and-true methods you’ll want to add to your glow-up arsenal:

1. Ginseng Glow-Up

Ginseng isn’t just for energy boosts — this antioxidant-rich root is a skincare powerhouse. It brightens the skin, reduces inflammation, and boosts circulation, giving you that “just had a facial” glow. You’ll often find ginseng-infused toners, serums, and masks in Korean skincare.

2. Rice Water Radiance

If your grandma ever told you to rinse your face with rice water, she was onto something. Korean women have used fermented rice water for centuries to achieve brighter, smoother skin. It’s loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that help even out skin tone and minimize pores. Pro tip: Save that water next time you’re cooking rice for a DIY toner!

3. Mugwort Magic

Mugwort, known as “ssuk” in Korea, is the unsung hero of the skincare world. With its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it soothes sensitive skin and helps with breakouts. Plus, it’s a go-to for reducing redness and calming irritation.

4. Facial Massages for the Win

Koreans swear by gentle facial massages to promote lymphatic drainage and improve circulation. This not only reduces puffiness (goodbye, morning face!) but also gives the skin a natural lift. You can use your hands or invest in a gua sha or jade roller for an extra bougie self-care moment.

5. Sheet Mask Sundays

No K-Beauty routine is complete without a sheet mask moment. Infused with collagen, hyaluronic acid, or snail mucin (yes, really), these masks lock in moisture and deliver an instant glow. Pop one on, pour yourself a cup of tea, and pretend you’re at a fancy Seoul spa.

Glow Like a K-Beauty Queen

Ready to embrace your inner skincare goddess? Start incorporating collagen-rich broths, gelatin-packed meals, and antioxidant-infused skincare into your routine. Say goodbye to dull skin and hello to that bouncy, youthful glow.

Because remember, in the world of K-Beauty, glowing skin isn’t just a trend — it’s a lifestyle.

The Bottom Line: Ditch the Tallow, Keep the Glow

Ladies, beef tallow might look good on paper, but it’s doing way too much when it comes to your skin and your hormones. Between messing with your thyroid, increasing inflammation, and clogging up your pores, it’s just not worth the risk to use it regularly — especially when there are so many plant-based alternatives you can throw into the mix that are as nurturing as they are effective. Remember women were gatherers and men were hunters. Plants are evolutionarily the woman’s go to!

So, let’s leave the beef to the hunters and embrace the herb-powered skincare that’s designed to support our bodies (and our hormones) with love and care. Your skin will thank you, your thyroid will thank you, and your hormones? Oh, they’ll be living their best, balanced life.

Stay sassy, stay savvy, and remember: no cow needed for your glow-up, babe. (And You’re already the most gorgeous babe I’ve ever seen!)

Sending love & light,

Irina

The Aura Doctor