We get this question a lot, and the simple answer is that tallow soaps and balms are completely safe for children and babies. In fact, the vitamins and nutrients in tallow products can be highly beneficial for babies and children for keeping their skin soft, smooth, and protected. It can also help soothe symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, and dermatitis, to name a few.
Are there any concerns when choosing a soap or balm for my child?
The one concern we come across when discussing whether or not tallow soaps and balms are safe for children (or anyone with sensitive skin) is when it comes to the essential oils in our soaps and their scent. We only use essential oils in our soaps and not fragrance oils to minimize the risk of any skin irritations. The essential oils we use in our soaps and balms are 100% natural oils made from plant extract. Synthetic ingredients used in fragrance oils are more likely to cause skin irritation than essential oils. Typically, unless you are allergic to the plant itself, essential oils are safe to use on the skin and can actually help the skin. Depending on the type of essential oil, the health benefits may differ along with the scent and shelf life. Many essential oils are used for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, and pain relief properties. However, each essential oil has specific health benefits and should be chosen based on each person's health and skincare needs.
Essential oils, when used properly, are safe for babies and children. If you know that the child has extremely sensitive skin, we recommend sticking to tallow soaps and balms that don't contain any fragrance. This is the best way to ensure they don’t have any sort of reaction to the product. In general, when dealing with sensitive skin, it is better to use unscented products to reduce the risk of irritation.
Why is tallow good for children's and babies' skin?
Much like adults, tallow is great for children's and babies' skin because of the vitamins and nutrients it provides. Tallow contains vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, which contribute to skin health and appearance. Given that the fat saturation of tallow is close to human fat, the vitamins within it can be absorbed into the body easier, and it locks in moisture and nutrients without clogging pores. Even in babies and children, this can be beneficial. If your child has dry skin or other skin conditions, this may help calm any symptoms and keep their skin moisturized for longer.
