If you're like us, you love skincare that's as kind to your face as it is to your shelf. This homemade Tallow Makeup Remover is the dreamy little potion you didn’t know your nighttime routine was missing. It's simple, soothing, and made with just a handful of nourishing ingredients you probably already have in your natural skincare stash.

Whether you’re cleansing away long-wear mascara, full-glam foundation, or just the lingering sparkles of a busy day—this tallow-based balm has your back (and your skin barrier).

💧 Why Use Tallow in Skincare?

Tallow has been used for centuries as a deeply moisturizing skin salve. It’s packed with skin-loving nutrients, including:

Vitamins A, D, E, and K
Palmitic and oleic acid (which help your skin stay hydrated)
A fatty acid profile that closely mirrors human skin, making it extra compatible and non-irritating

This makes it a luxurious base for removing makeup without stripping your skin. Plus, if you use grass-fed tallow, you're also getting bonus anti-inflammatory properties and omega-rich nourishment.

🧴 What You’ll Need

This recipe makes about 4 to 5 ounces, perfect for a reusable glass jar on your vanity or sink.

🌿 Ingredients:

½ cup tallow (preferably grass-fed, rendered and filtered)
1 tablespoon castor oil – a cleansing oil that helps dissolve makeup and draw impurities
½ tablespoon coconut oil – adds slip and antimicrobial properties
½ tablespoon vitamin E oil – helps preserve freshness and soothes the skin
1 tablespoon jojoba oil – mimics your skin’s natural sebum for added hydration
Optional: a few drops of essential oil (lavender, chamomile, frankincense)
Optional: Use herb-infused oils or tallow for added benefits (think calendula or chamomile!)

🛠️ Instructions

Melt the Base Oils
In a double boiler or a heat-safe glass bowl over a pot of simmering water, gently melt the tallow and coconut oil on medium-low heat.
Stir in the Liquid Oils
Once everything is fully melted, remove from heat and stir in the castor oil, vitamin E oil, and jojoba oil.
Add Essential Oils (Optional)
If you’re adding essential oils, stir in a few drops now. Keep it gentle—especially if you’ll be using this near your eyes.
Cool & Mix
Let the mixture sit until it firms up—either at room temperature or in the fridge. Once semi-solid, give it a gentle stir or whip to create a soft, creamy texture.
Store
Scoop the balm into a clean, airtight container and store somewhere cool, away from direct sunlight.

🧼 How to Use Tallow Makeup Remover

Scoop out a small amount with clean fingers or a cosmetic spatula.
Warm it between your fingers, then gently massage over dry skin—especially around eyes and lips.
Use a warm, damp cloth or soft cotton pad to wipe away the balm and melted makeup.
Follow with a gentle cleanser (if double cleansing) or just moisturize and go!

Tip: Always patch test new products, especially when using around the eye area.

✨ What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like—cleansing your skin twice. First, you use an oil-based cleanser (like this tallow balm) to break down makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based grime. Then, you follow up with a water-based cleanser to wash away sweat, dirt, and anything else that didn’t lift off the first time.

This method is especially helpful at night, when your skin may have layers of SPF, pollution, or heavy makeup. It’s gentle but thorough—and leaves your skin feeling soft, never stripped.

🌼 A Family Thing: Why We Love Homemade Skincare

Homemade skincare has always been a bit of a Johnson family tradition. Cynthia Johnson makes most of her own facial products—infusing oils with herbs, mixing up face balms in the kitchen, and always having some little jar of something magical in the fridge. Stephanie Johnson, the youngest of the bunch, makes all her own soap from scratch—beautiful, swirled bars that smell like rosemary or bergamot and feel like a luxury hotel stay.

So really, this tallow makeup remover is just the latest chapter in a long-standing love for DIY. There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a few simple ingredients and turning them into a product that works just as well (or better) than store-bought—and without all the questionable chemicals or inflated price tags.

This balm has become a staple in our nightly routines. It’s soft, soothing, and leaves your skin feeling nourished, not stripped. Just the way homemade skincare should be.

📌 Pin Me for Later!

Homemade Tallow Makeup Remover – Clean, Natural, and Luxurious
Whip up this 5-ingredient balm and melt away your makeup while keeping your skin buttery soft and nourished.

While you’re at it, be sure to follow us on Pinterest by checking us out here!

🛁 Looking for More Homemade Skincare?

We’re always experimenting with new recipes that keep things simple, safe, and full of cozy vibes. If you’re in a DIY mood, check out a couple of our other favorites:

❓ FAQ

Can I use this if I have oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes! The castor and jojoba oils are great for balancing oil production. Just be sure to patch test if you’re acne-prone or sensitive to coconut oil.

Does this need a preservative?
Nope. This is an anhydrous (water-free) product, so as long as you keep it dry and clean, it’ll last 3–6 months. The vitamin E helps extend shelf life.

Can I customize this recipe?
Definitely! Try herb-infused tallow, switch up the oils based on your skin’s needs, or add a few drops of essential oils for a personal touch.

Can I double the batch?
Absolutely. This makes a great gift! Just store in smaller jars and keep extras cool.

The Final Scrub

Have your own DIY skincare traditions? Or maybe a favorite essential oil blend you like to add? We’d love to hear about it. Drop a comment below or tag us with your creations—we always love seeing what other handmade hearts are up to! 💛

As always,

Much love,

The Johnsons

How To Make: DIY Tallow Make Up Remover – Gentle, Nourishing & All-Natural