Frequently asked questions
Lotion vs. Tallow — What’s the Real Difference?
Lotion = Lightweight Moisturization
Lotions contain water and are generally designed to provide lightweight moisturization. They tend to spread easily and feel light on the skin.
Tallow Balm = Rich, Lipid-Based Moisturization
Tallow balms are water-free and provide rich, emollient moisturization. They help soften and condition the skin while helping reduce moisture loss from the skin's surface.
Because they are concentrated and water-free, only a small amount is usually needed.
How do I use Top Shelf Tallow products?
Apply a small amount to clean skin and massage gently until evenly distributed. A little goes a long way.
For a richer moisturizing experience, apply after bathing or showering while the skin still retains some moisture.
What is Top Shelf Tallow made from?
Top Shelf Tallow products are crafted with carefully rendered tallow and selected botanical-infused oils. Depending on the individual product, formulas may also contain ingredients such as beeswax or essential oils.
Our formulas are intentionally simple, concentrated and water-free.
Always refer to the ingredient list on the individual product for its complete formulation.
Why use beef tallow on skin?
Beef tallow is naturally composed of fatty acids, including oleic, palmitic and stearic acids. These lipids give tallow its rich, emollient texture and make it well suited to water-free skincare formulations.
When applied to the skin, tallow helps moisturize, soften and condition the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and comfortable.
Its concentrated texture also means that a small amount can spread easily over the skin.
What are infused oils?
Infused oils are created by steeping selected herbs and botanicals in a carrier oil.
At Top Shelf Tallow, we use carefully prepared botanical-infused oils in selected formulations to complement the texture, feel and conditioning properties of our tallow-based products.
Depending on the product, these may include botanicals such as rosemary, nettle, bay leaf, lavender, arnica, chamomile, clove or propolis.
Why do you choose to keep honey out of your tallow-based skincare?
Our tallow balms are intentionally formulated as water-free, anhydrous products.
Honey is hygroscopic and contains water, making it very different from the fats and oils used in an anhydrous balm. Introducing a water-containing ingredient requires additional formulation considerations, including product stability and preservation.
Instead, we keep our balms focused on carefully rendered tallow, selected botanical-infused oils and other oil-compatible ingredients.
The result is a concentrated, smooth and simple water-free balm.
How is Top Shelf Tallow produced?
Top Shelf Tallow products are crafted in-house, from carefully rendering our tallow to preparing our botanical-infused oils and blending the final formulations.
We believe that controlling the process ourselves allows us to maintain the craftsmanship and consistency behind every batch.
Do your products contain synthetic fragrances or fillers?
We do not use synthetic fragrances in our tallow balms. Any natural aroma comes from the ingredients used in the individual formulation.
Please check the ingredient list for each product for complete details.
Are your products vegan?
No. Top Shelf Tallow products are made with beef tallow and are not vegan.
Is Top Shelf Tallow suitable for sensitive skin?
Our formulas are made with carefully selected ingredients and are designed for cosmetic use.
Because everyone's skin is different, we recommend patch testing a small area before regular use, particularly if you know you are sensitive to any of the listed ingredients.
Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Can I use Top Shelf Tallow on my face?
Yes. Products identified for facial use can be applied to the face as a moisturizer.
Start with a very small amount and gently massage it onto clean skin. Because tallow balm is concentrated, a little goes a long way.
Always follow the directions provided for the individual product.
Is Top Shelf Tallow good for tattoos?
Our Tattoo Balm is designed to moisturize and condition tattooed skin, helping it feel soft and comfortable.
For a fresh tattoo, always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist or healthcare professional before applying any cosmetic product.
How should I store the product?
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Because our balms are made primarily from natural fats and oils, their texture may become softer or firmer depending on temperature. This is normal for an anhydrous balm.
Where are your products made?
Top Shelf Tallow products are handcrafted locally in Canada using Canadian-sourced beef tallow. From rendering the tallow and preparing our botanical-infused oils to blending and filling the final products, we carefully manage the process in-house to maintain quality and consistency.
Do you ship across Canada?
Yes. We ship across Canada. Available shipping options, rates and estimated delivery times are shown at checkout.
When will I get my order?
We will work quickly to ship your order as soon as possible. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information. Delivery times vary depending on your location.
What is your return policy?
Due to the nature of skincare products, we do not accept returns on opened items.
Our goal is for every customer to be totally satisfied with their purchase. If there is an issue with your order, please contact us and we'll do our best to work with you to make it right.
How can I contact Top Shelf Tallow?
You can reach us through the Contact page on our website or by emailing us directly at info@topshelftallow.ca. We aim to respond as quickly as possible.