Does Tallow Clog Pores?
Understanding comedogenicity and how tallow interacts with your skin
One of the most common questions people ask when first learning about tallow-based skincare is whether it will clog pores. It’s a fair question, especially for those who have experienced breakouts or are cautious about richer products.
The answer isn’t always as simple as yes or no, but understanding how tallow works can help bring some clarity.
What Does “Comedogenic” Mean?
The term comedogenic refers to the likelihood that an ingredient may clog pores and contribute to the formation of comedones, such as blackheads or whiteheads. These ratings are often based on controlled testing, but they don’t always reflect how an ingredient behaves across different skin types.¹
Because everyone’s skin is different, something that works well for one person may not work the same way for another.
Where Tallow Falls
Tallow is sometimes considered to have a low to moderate comedogenic rating, but this doesn’t tell the whole story. Its fatty acid profile is similar to the natural oils found in human skin, which can make it more compatible than many synthetic or highly processed ingredients.²
For some, this similarity allows tallow to absorb well and support the skin without causing congestion.
Skin Type Matters
Breakouts are influenced by many factors, including skin type, overall routine, and how many products are being layered together. For individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin, introducing any rich product—whether plant-based or animal-based—may require a slower, more intentional approach.
For others, especially those with dry or sensitive skin, tallow can feel deeply nourishing without leading to clogged pores.
A Balanced Perspective
Rather than focusing solely on comedogenic ratings, many dermatology sources suggest looking at how a product performs on your own skin over time.³ Simpler formulations and fewer ingredients can often make it easier to understand what is working well and what isn’t.
Tallow-based skincare offers a more traditional approach - one that focuses on compatibility and simplicity rather than complexity.
Starting Slowly
If you’re new to tallow, starting with a small amount and observing how your skin responds can be a helpful approach. Skincare is rarely one-size-fits-all, and finding what works best for you often takes a bit of time and attention.
In our stores, including Franklin, this is one of the most common conversations we have—and one we’re always happy to walk through with customers.
Sources
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American Academy of Dermatology – Acne causes
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/acne-causes -
National Center for Biotechnology Information – Skin lipids and barrier
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5574736/ -
National Center for Biotechnology Information – Acne and sebum
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835894/