I believe in using ingredients that actually support the skin, not just sit on top of it.
That’s why bison tallow is the foundation of everything I make.
Tallow itself isn’t new. It’s been used for generations. But bison tallow, specifically, has some qualities that make it really special, both for the skin and in a deeper, more traditional sense.
Why I use bison tallow
Bison tallow is incredibly nutrient-dense.
It’s rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with essential fatty acids that the skin recognizes and knows how to use. Because of how similar it is to our skin’s natural oils, it absorbs really well and actually helps restore the skin barrier instead of just coating it.
It locks in moisture without clogging pores, which is why it works for dry skin, sensitive skin, and even acne-prone skin.
It’s one of those ingredients that just makes sense.
More than just skincare
There’s also a deeper history here that I think matters.
Bison have long been respected and used by Indigenous communities, not just as a resource, but as part of a relationship with the land. The fat was used for skin, for protection, for healing, especially in harsh environments.
That’s something I don’t take lightly.
I’m not trying to replicate tradition, but I do think it’s important to recognize where these ingredients have been used long before modern skincare existed, and to approach them with respect.
Why I chose bison over beef
Both beef and bison tallow are beneficial, but I chose to work with bison for a few reasons.
Bison tallow tends to have a better balance of fatty acids, including more omega-3s, which are helpful for calming inflammation in the skin.
It also contains higher levels of compounds that support skin repair and elasticity, which makes a difference over time, especially for sensitive or compromised skin.
And the sourcing matters to me. The bison I use are pasture-raised, which means they’re living more naturally, and that translates into a cleaner, more nutrient-rich tallow.
Why sourcing matters
When you’re putting something on your skin every day, the quality of the ingredient matters.
Pasture-raised animals contribute to healthier soil and more balanced ecosystems, and that’s something I want to support through this brand. It’s not just about the end product, it’s about how it got there.
The bottom line
Everything I make comes back to this.
Simple ingredients. Thoughtfully sourced. Used in a way that actually supports the skin.
Bison tallow is a big part of that. It’s nourishing, it’s effective, and it connects back to a way of working with nature that feels slower and more intentional.
When you’re using Dear Oaklyn, it’s not just about moisturizing your skin.
It’s about using something real, something that’s been respected and used long before trends, and bringing that into your everyday routine in a way that feels good and makes sense.