DIY Tallow Balm: A Simple 3-Ingredient Recipe
There’s something special about making skincare by hand.
Simple ingredients, a quiet moment in the kitchen, and a recipe rooted in tradition.
Tallow balm has been used for generations as a nourishing skincare staple—and one of the reasons people still love it today is how beautifully simple it can be.
With just a few thoughtfully chosen ingredients, you can create a rich balm that feels comforting, moisturizing, and timeless.
Here’s one of our favorite beginner-friendly tallow balm recipes.
Why Make Tallow Balm?
Tallow balm is loved because it feels deeply nourishing and simple.
Grass-fed tallow naturally contains:
- Vitamins A, D, E & K
- Skin-supporting fatty acids
- Rich moisture for dry skin
Combined with botanical oils, it creates a balm that feels soft, protective, and beautifully smooth.
DIY tallow balm is wonderful for:
Dry hands Elbows & knees Cuticles Seasonal dry skin Daily moisturizing
Ingredients
You’ll need:
½ cup grass-fed tallow
(clean and skincare-ready)
2 tablespoons jojoba oil
(or olive oil / sweet almond oil)
8–10 drops essential oil (optional)
Popular choices:
- Lavender
- Frankincense
- Chamomile
Optional:
- Small glass jar or tin
- Mixing bowl
- Double boiler
Step 1: Melt the Tallow
Place the tallow in a heat-safe bowl over warm water.
Heat slowly until fully melted.
Avoid overheating.
Once melted, remove from heat.
Step 2: Add Botanical Oil
Stir in jojoba oil.
This helps soften the balm texture and adds extra nourishment.
Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add Essential Oil
If using essential oils, add them once the mixture cools slightly.
Stir gently.
Lavender is a beautiful calming option.
Step 4: Pour Into Jar
Carefully pour into a clean glass jar or tin.
Let it cool completely.
The balm will naturally firm up.
Texture should feel creamy and rich.
Step 5: Use & Enjoy
Massage a small amount onto skin.
Best places:
- Hands
- Dry patches
- Feet
- Elbows
- Overnight moisture care
A little goes a long way.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place.
Keep lid closed.
Best used within several months.
Avoid direct sunlight or high heat.
Easy Recipe Variations
For sensitive skin:
Skip essential oils.
For extra softness:
Add a teaspoon of shea butter.
For firmer balm:
Use slightly more tallow.
For lighter texture:
Add a little more jojoba oil.
Why Pennyhill Loves Traditional Ingredients
At Pennyhill, we love skincare that feels simple and intentional.
Grass-fed tallow and botanical ingredients create products rooted in tradition and made with care.
DIY recipes are a beautiful reminder that skincare doesn’t have to feel complicated.
Sometimes the simplest ingredients feel the best.
Final Thoughts
Homemade tallow balm is:
Simple Nourishing Traditional Beautifully practical
A few ingredients.
A timeless recipe.
And skincare made with intention.