Pure Grass Fed Beef Tallow Soap Recipe (Cold Process)
When it comes to healthy skin, the quality of the products you use can make all the difference. That’s why at the Honeyroot, we help you create the best natural skincare solutions, and our pure tallow soap recipe is no exception.
While it might seem like an unusual concept, beef tallow has long been valued in skincare for its natural nourishment and seamless integration with our skin’s oils. It’s a gentle yet effective way to hydrate and revitalize your skin.
Tallow skincare is truly a simple solution rooted in tradition and backed by centuries of use.
Tallow soap is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin, because it is gentle and non-irritating and one reason why we are absolutely obsessed..
Our recipe starts with the highest quality grass-fed beef tallow, rich in beneficial fatty acids like linoleic acid and palmitoleic acid, which help moisturize and protect the skin’s barrier.
Through a meticulous cold process, we transform this pure tallow into wholesome soap bars, guaranteeing that each batch meets our high standards for quality and purity.
Unlike mass-produced soaps loaded with synthetic chemicals and additives, our tallow soap bars contain only natural ingredients.
For those who prefer to create their skincare products at home, we believe grass fed tallow from grass fed cows truly makes the best soap and we’re so excited to share our beef tallow soap bar recipe with you!
With just a few simple ingredients and a little effort, you can create a long-lasting bar of soap that rivals the best on the market.
The final product? A hard bar of soap that cleanses and nourishes your skin without the chemicals and additives.
At the Honeyroot, we truly believe the best part of caring for your skin is knowing exactly what goes into it so we’re laying it all out for you!
Try our 5 Star Grass-Fed Whipped Tallow Balm handcrafted in small batches and made right here in our kitchen!
What is Soap Tallow?
Tallow soap is a natural cleansing product made from grass-fed beef tallow using the cold process method. It involves a chemical reaction between the tallow and a lye solution, resulting in a final product that is gentle on the skin.
This soap is prized for its moisturizing properties, thanks to the presence of stearic acid and other fatty acids found in grass-fed tallow. It can also be customized with fragrance oils or citrus oils for a pleasant scent.
Tallow soap has a long shelf life and is suitable for various skin types, making it a popular choice for those seeking a simple yet effective skincare solution.
A few commonly asked questions I like to address when it comes to tallow soap are:
Does tallow soap smell? And, don’t worry, our grass fed beef tallow soap will not smell like beef if you render and drain the tallow correctly. But the joy of making soap is adding essential oils, which will help enhance the soap fully. Essential oils also benefit even more from making your beef tallow soap recipe.
Does tallow soap clog drains? Plumbing experts agree that while tallow in soap may contribute to additional drain issues, it is not worse than the common problem of hair clogging. These issues are a natural part of bathroom usage and can be easily managed properly.
Does Tallow Soap Clean Well?
Tallow Soap bar is known for its ability to produce a rich and creamy lather that gently cleanses and is excellent for the skin. Pure Tallow soap bar is popular among people with various skin conditions (including sensitive and dry skin) due to its gentle and practical nature.
Tallow Soap bar is a gentle yet effective cleanser that helps to remove dirt and impurities from your skin. Unlike harsher soaps that can strip your skin of natural oils, beef tallow soap maintains your skin’s natural pH balance, leaving it feeling soft and nourished.
How Long Does Tallow Soap Last?
The Honeyroot’s tallow soap bar recipe can last up to 9 months with proper storage. Be sure that you keep your tallow soap in a cool, safe place. But due to the texture of the soap, a little bit will go a long way. As a result, you’ll get more for your time and money.
Tallow Soap Benefits
Is tallow soap good for skin? Tallow soap is an excellent choice for those who want to take the best care of their skin.
Tallow soap lasts longer than typical soaps and contains additional vitamins that nourish and hydrate the skin.
When using tallow soap, you can expect a richer lather that provides a more thorough cleaning experience. This soap is especially beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-irritating.
One of the most commonly asked questions we are often asked is, is tallow soap suitable for your face?
And given the growing number of beauty gurus who have embraced beef tallow soap recipes and tallow balms in their routines, it’s likely safe to say that it’s worth a try.
Tallow soap bars have essential properties that can prevent acne, rejuvenate dull skin, and transform your complexion.
Since the tallow closely resembles the fatty acids in human skin, it helps maintain the healthy skin aspects on our faces and bodies. This also helps prevent it from being harsh on our skin. It is also typically suitable to be used on those who suffer from eczema.
Tallow is rich in vitamins A, K, and E, along with antioxidants, which work together to promote healthy, radiant skin. Vitamin E fights free radicals, preventing wrinkles and preserving collagen, while Vitamin D enhances skin vibrancy and boosts immunity against infections.
For more information on the benefits of tallow, check out our post Tallow Skincare: Benefits of Tallow for Skin.
Why Grass-Fed Tallow for Soap Making?
Grass-fed beef tallow is a preferred choice for soap making due to its superior quality and beneficial properties.
Derived from cows that graze on grass rather than being fed grains or other unnatural diets, grass-fed tallow contains higher levels of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants.
This natural composition makes it ideal for nourishing and moisturizing the skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated.
Additionally, grass-fed tallow produces a creamy lather that cleanses the skin gently without stripping away its natural oils.
By utilizing tallow sourced from grass-fed cows, soap makers can create products that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable, supporting healthier ecosystems and animal welfare practices.
Soap Making Process
Let’s get into the soap making process! Remember to take safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and protective gear.
And, of course, source high-quality tallow from your local butcher or reputable supplier.
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Tools Needed for Tallow Cold Process Soap Making
Tallow soap making requires a few essential tools to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here are the tools you’ll need:
Tallow Soap Recipe
This recipe calls for rendered tallow. If you haven’t rendered your beef fat for tallow just yet, you can check out our post on how to render and purify tallow for odorless beef fat tallow. This post walks you through the process of rendered fat for tallow.
Don’t worry. It’s super simple.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grass-fed beef tallow (Rendered Tallow)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lye (sodium hydroxide)
- 1/2 cup water
- Optional: essential oils for fragrance
Instructions
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before you begin, ensure you’re wearing appropriate safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and long sleeves. This will protect your skin and eyes from any potential splashes of lye, which can be caustic.
Step 2: Prepare Lye Solution
Find a well-ventilated area to work in. In a heat-resistant container, carefully add the lye to water while stirring continuously. Remember, always add the lye to water and not the other way around to avoid a dangerous reaction. Set the lye solution aside to cool while you proceed with the next steps.
Step 3: Melt Oils
In a separate heat-safe container, combine your grass-fed beef tallow, coconut oil, and olive oil. Heat the mixture gently until all the oils are fully melted and blended together. This melted tallow mixture can be done on a stovetop or in a microwave.
Step 4: Cool Oils
Allow the melted oils to cool down to a temperature between 100-110°F (38-43°C). It’s essential for the oils to be similar in temperature to the lye solution to prevent any issues when they’re combined.
Step 5: Combine Lye Solution and Oils
Once both the lye solution and oils have reached the appropriate temperature, slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring continuously. This gradual mixing is crucial to ensure a smooth and well-incorporated soap mixture.
Step 6: Blend Mixture
Use a stick blender to blend the mixture thoroughly. You’ll notice the mixture start to thicken and reach a pudding-like consistency. This stage is called “trace,” indicating that the soap is starting to emulsify.
Step 6 (Optional): Add Fragrance
If you’d like to add fragrance to your soap, now is the time to do so. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oils and stir them into the mixture until they’re well combined. Be cautious not to add too much, as essential oils can be potent.
Step 7: Mold the Soap
Pour the soap mixture into your soap molds, ensuring they’re evenly filled. Tap the molds gently on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped within the mixture.
Step 8: Let Soap Harden
Allow the soap to sit undisturbed in the molds for 24-48 hours. During this time, it will harden and set into its final shape.
Step 9: Cut Into Bars
Once the soap has fully hardened, carefully remove it from the molds. Use a sharp knife to cut the soap slab into individual bars of your desired size.
Step 10: Cure the Soap
Place the cut soap bars on a drying rack in a cool, dry place. Allow them to cure for 4-6 weeks, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying. This curing process allows the soap to harden further and ensures a longer-lasting bar.
Ready to Use
After the curing period, your homemade grass-fed tallow soap is ready to use! The end result is perfect for nourishing and cleansing the skin. So you can enjoy the benefits of your handcrafted soap, knowing that you’ve created a high-quality product with natural ingredients.
Storing Your Tallow Soap
- Cool, Dry Place: Store the cured soap bars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat and moisture can cause the soap to soften or melt prematurely.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of excess moisture, which can lead to soap sweating or degradation.
- Avoid Plastic: Avoid storing the soap in plastic containers or bags, as they can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Opt for breathable materials such as paper bags or cardboard boxes instead.
- Elevated Surface: Place the soap bars on a raised surface or wire rack to allow air circulation around them. This helps prevent the formation of soggy bottoms and extends the shelf life of the soap.
- Labeling: Label each soap bar with the date of making and any additional information such as fragrance or special additives used. This will help you keep track of the aging process and ensure you use the oldest bars first.
- Long-Term Storage: If storing soap for an extended period, consider wrapping each bar individually in wax paper or parchment paper to protect them from dust and moisture.
- Avoid Humidity: Keep the soap away from humid areas such as bathrooms or kitchen sinks, as humidity can cause the soap to soften and lose its shape.
- Rotation: Rotate your stock of soap regularly to ensure you use the oldest bars first. This helps maintain freshness and quality over time.
Tallow Soap Making Clean Up Tips
After making tallow soap, start by cleaning your equipment immediately with hot, soapy water to prevent soap residue from hardening. Scrape off any excess soap batter from mixing bowls and containers before washing.
For spills, neutralize lye solution with white vinegar before wiping it away. Protect surfaces with newspaper or plastic sheets to ease cleanup. Dispose of waste properly, avoiding pouring oils down the drain. Wipe down surfaces and ventilate the area to disperse any fumes.
Lastly, wash hands thoroughly after handling soap ingredients or equipment. These steps ensure a clean and safe workspace post-soap making.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, our journey into the world of grass-fed tallow soap has been nothing short of transformative.
At the Honeyroot, we believe in harnessing the power of nature to create skincare solutions that are as pure as they are effective.
Our pure tallow soap recipe is a testament to this philosophy, offering a simple yet powerful way to nourish and rejuvenate your skin.
By carefully crafting each batch with the highest quality ingredients and a commitment to traditional methods, we’ve created a soap that not only cleanses but also nourishes and protects.
From the rich lather to the long-lasting benefits, our grass-fed tallow soap reflects the natural beauty and resilience of our homestead ethos.
100% Grass Fed Beef Tallow Soap Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Immersion Blender
- 1 Safety Goggles
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Measuring Cup
- 1 Thermometer
- 1 Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup grass-fed beef tallow Rendered Tallow
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lye sodium hydroxide
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- Optional: essential oils for fragrance
Instructions
- Safety Precautions- Before you begin, ensure you're wearing appropriate safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and long sleeves. This will protect your skin and eyes from any potential splashes of lye, which can be caustic.
- Prepare Lye Solution- Find a well-ventilated area to work in. In a heat-resistant container, carefully add the lye to water while stirring continuously. Remember, always add the lye to water and not the other way around to avoid a dangerous reaction. Set the lye solution aside to cool while you proceed with the next steps.
- Mix Ingredients- In a separate heat-safe container, combine your grass-fed beef tallow, coconut oil, and olive oil. Heat the mixture gently until all the oils are fully melted and blended together. This melted tallow mixture can be done on a stovetop or in a microwave.
- Cool Oils- Allow the melted oils to cool down to a temperature between 100-110°F (38-43°C). It’s essential for the oils to be similar in temperature to the lye solution to prevent any issues when they’re combined.
- Combine Lye Solution and Oils- Once both the lye solution and oils have reached the appropriate temperature, slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring continuously. This gradual mixing is crucial to ensure a smooth and well-incorporated soap mixture.
- Blend Mixture- Use a stick blender to blend the mixture thoroughly. You’ll notice the mixture start to thicken and reach a pudding-like consistency. This stage is called “trace,” indicating that the soap is starting to emulsify.
- (Optional): Add Fragrance- If you’d like to add fragrance to your soap, now is the time to do so. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oils and stir them into the mixture until they’re well combined. Be cautious not to add too much, as essential oils can be potent.
- Mold the Soap- Pour the soap mixture into your soap molds, ensuring they’re evenly filled. Tap the molds gently on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped within the mixture.
- Let Soap Harden- Allow the soap to sit undisturbed in the molds for 24-48 hours. During this time, it will harden and set into its final shape.
- Cut Into Bars- Once the soap has fully hardened, carefully remove it from the molds. Use a sharp knife to cut the soap slab into individual bars of your desired size.
- Cure the Soap- Place the cut soap bars on a drying rack in a cool, dry place. Allow them to cure for 4-6 weeks, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying. This curing process allows the soap to harden further and ensures a longer-lasting bar.
- Ready to Use- After the curing period, your homemade grass-fed tallow soap is ready to use! The end result is perfect for nourishing and cleansing the skin. So you can enjoy the benefits of your handcrafted soap, knowing that you've created a high-quality product with natural ingredients.
Notes
About The Author
Kacie is a wife, homeschool mom of 4 boys, holistic esthetician, and a sixth-generation homesteader with a passion for natural and sustainable living, creating a home that educates the mind and nurtures the soul, and reclaiming our independence like our ancestors before us.
