I believe in the power of nature to nourish and heal the skin. That’s why I chose pasture-raised bison tallow as the foundation for every offering of mine. While tallow, whether from beef or bison, has been a staple in skincare for generations, bison tallow offers unique benefits that make it an ideal choice for products that are both effective and kind to your skin. But there’s more to this fat than just its skincare benefits, it has deep roots in Native American traditions, where it was valued for its powerful healing properties. Here’s why I've chosen to honor that tradition while creating products that support your skin’s health.
The Power of Bison Tallow: A Natural Moisturizer
Bison tallow is an incredibly nutrient-dense fat derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bison. It’s rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E, and K, making it a fantastic natural moisturizer for all skin types. Its fatty acid profile is notably similar to our skin’s own lipid structure, which allows it to absorb quickly and deeply, helping to restore moisture and balance without clogging pores.
What sets bison tallow apart is its ability to lock in hydration. Unlike many synthetic moisturizers that sit on the surface of the skin and can lead to irritation, bison tallow penetrates deeply, repairing the skin’s natural barrier. This makes it especially effective for dry, cracked, or irritated skin, perfect for sensitive areas like around the eyes or lips, as well as the body. I use it as the base for the each product I make.
Thunder Fat: A Tradition of Healing
Bison tallow’s rich history goes beyond skincare. In Native American culture, it was often referred to as thunder fat, a reference to the bison’s powerful, revered presence. Indigenous peoples recognized the nourishing and healing properties of bison fat, using it not just as a moisturizer but also for its protective qualities. The bison was called the "Thunder Beast," and its fat was considered a sacred gift that could heal wounds, protect the skin from harsh elements, and promote overall well-being.
For centuries, Native Americans have used bison tallow as an essential part of their lives, applying it to their skin for hydration and protection in the harsh environments they faced. This deep-rooted tradition is something I've chosen to honor at Dear Oaklyn by bringing bison tallow into modern skincare. Just as the Indigenous peoples did, I embrace the power of nature’s gifts for their healing properties, ensuring our products are as close to nature as possible.
Why Bison Tallow Over Beef Tallow?
While beef tallow shares many of the same benefits as bison tallow, being rich in fatty acids and vitamins, there are some key reasons why I chose bison tallow for our formulations.
- Better Omega-3 to Omega-6 Ratio: Bison tallow tends to have a better balance of omega-3 fatty acids compared to beef tallow, which has a higher omega-6 content. Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them particularly beneficial for calming skin irritation, redness, and puffiness.
- Higher Concentration of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): Bison tallow contains a higher concentration of CLA, a fatty acid that promotes skin elasticity, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy cell turnover. This makes it an excellent choice for sensitive or aging skin, where skin elasticity and moisture retention are especially important.
- Purity and Sustainability: The bison are pasture-raised, meaning they roam freely and are not confined to feedlots. This results in healthier animals and cleaner tallow, free from unnecessary chemicals, pesticides, and growth hormones commonly found in conventionally raised livestock. By sourcing my tallow from vaccine-free bison, I ensure it’s as pure and natural as possible for your skin.
Vaccine-Free and Grass-Fed: Why It Matters
When it comes to any animal-derived product, the source is crucial. By using pasture-raised bison, I can ensure that the tallow is as clean and pure as possible. Many commercial tallow products are derived from animals that may have been exposed to synthetic hormones, antibiotics, and vaccines, which can eventually make their way into the final product.
Pasture-raised bison are not only better for your skin, they’re also better for the environment. Pasture-raised animals contribute to sustainable land practices, which promote biodiversity and healthier soil compared to conventional farming methods. By supporting these ethical practices, I'm committed to offering a product that is not only good for you but good for the planet, too.
The Bottom Line
I'm dedicated to using ingredients that are not only effective but also sustainable, ethical, and gentle on your skin. Pasture-raised bison tallow is the perfect example of this philosophy. It offers all the skin-loving benefits of traditional tallow, but with added advantages that make it a standout in modern skincare. By using bison tallow, I'm not just giving your skin the care it deserves, I'm honoring a tradition that goes back centuries, one that recognizes the deep connection between us, nature, and the animals we share this planet with.
So the next time you reach for one of your Dear Oaklyn products, remember that you’re not just nourishing your skin, you’re embracing a time-honored tradition of healing, sustainability, and purity.