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Why We Chose Tallow
The science behind the choice
Before laboratories existed, there was only nature. For thousands of years, the most effective forms of skin care came directly from it. Tallow is among these ancestral ingredients: simple, nourishing, and deeply compatible with the human body. Civilisations as diverse as the Egyptians, Romans, and Nordic peoples used it to protect, regenerate, and restore the skin.
Today, modern research explains what these cultures already knew. Tallow has a composition very similar to the lipids of our skin barrier, making it highly biocompatible. This natural affinity allows it to hydrate deeply, reinforce the skin barrier, and support its natural balance. At Sebodoria Ancestral, we choose tallow for its simplicity, effectiveness, and respect for both nature and the human body.
Tallow is an ancestral ingredient validated by contemporary science.
Why We Do Not Use Essential Oils
The reasoning behind the decision
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances, obtained from large quantities of plant material. That concentration, which gives them efficacy, is also what requires deep knowledge, professional guidance, and specific precautions, especially when applied directly to the skin.
Some essential oils can cause photosensitivity, reacting with sunlight and leading to persistent pigmentation, inflammation, or even burns. Others are associated with contact dermatitis, skin sensitisation, and allergic reactions, which may not appear immediately, but rather days after application. When stored improperly, essential oils oxidise, becoming even more irritating and reactive to the skin.
In sensitive, inflamed skin, or in conditions such as eczema, acne, or psoriasis, these risks are increased. The skin is more vulnerable and may react intensely to compounds that, under other circumstances, would be well tolerated. In addition, some essential oils may cross the skin barrier and produce undesirable systemic effects, particularly when used frequently or at higher concentrations.
There are also groups that require special caution. Pregnant women, babies, and children have a different, more sensitive physiology, and many essential oils are not recommended or contraindicated, even for diffusion. This information is not always clearly stated on labels, and for us, that is an ethical line that cannot be ignored.
It would be simpler to add essential oils solely to scent our products. But we choose a different path. We opt to infuse whole plants in their natural state, respecting time, raw materials, and the skin, to create formulas that are gentle, effective, and deeply compatible.
We believe that care should not raise doubts or concerns. Therefore, we choose simple, honest, and universal formulas, designed for the whole family, at every stage of life.
It is not a rejection. It is a conscious choice.
And above all, a gesture of respect for the skin, the body, and nature.
Why We Avoid Oils Rich in PUFAs
Stability and integrity of the skin barrier
In addition to essential oils, there are also vegetable oils widely used in cosmetics that raise important concerns. At Sebodoria Ancestral, we make informed choices about every ingredient we use and, in the case of vegetable oils with a high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly linoleic acid, we have consciously chosen not to include them in our formulations.
Many oils commonly used in cosmetics, such as sunflower oil, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, rosehip oil or hemp oil, present very high percentages of linoleic acid. This lipid profile, characterised by a high number of double bonds, makes these fats chemically less stable and highly susceptible to oxidation.
When exposed to light, heat or prolonged storage, polyunsaturated fatty acids degrade more easily, generating reactive compounds that can increase cutaneous oxidative stress and compromise the skin’s barrier function. In these cases, fat ceases to fulfil a protective role and may become a silent factor of imbalance.
Additionally, a high predominance of omega-6 PUFAs, particularly in the form of excessive linoleic acid, is associated with the activation of inflammatory cascades, potentially aggravating conditions such as acne, dermatitis or reactive skin. In sensitive or already compromised skin, these effects tend to manifest more noticeably.
It is important to clarify that not all fats containing PUFAs have the same impact. Ingredients such as tallow or olive oil include polyunsaturated fatty acids only in reduced percentages, which does not compromise their stability nor cause relevant cutaneous imbalances.
At Sebodoria Ancestral, we prioritise fats that are structurally stable and biologically compatible with human skin, characterised by a low proportion of linoleic acid. Tallow stands out for its resistance to oxidation and for its natural affinity with the lipids of the skin barrier, allowing the skin to be nourished without being overloaded.
This is not about rejecting ingredients, but about choosing consciously. For us, caring for the skin begins with respecting its biology.
What you will not find in our products
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we aim to answer the questions we are most frequently asked.
Our balms support the skin’s natural moisture retention and reinforce the skin barrier thanks to tallow, a lipid naturally rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K. Its composition is very similar to that of the skin’s own lipids, which gives it high biocompatibility and helps reduce dryness, sensitivity, and irritation. Research demonstrates significant increases in hydration and improvements in skin comfort following the application of tallow-derived lipids, including soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. The infused plants we use add specific properties according to each formulation, offering natural, balanced care tailored to different needs.
Sources: Russell et al., 2024; Kowalska et al., 2017; Lee et al., 2020; Abd Rahman et al., 2011.
Our products use tallow as the base ingredient, a lipid with a composition very similar to the skin’s natural lipids. This biocompatibility facilitates its integration into the skin barrier and contributes to restoring hydration, comfort, and balance. Research demonstrates significant improvements in water retention and overall skin condition following the application of tallow-derived lipids, confirming their effectiveness for compromised skin. In dry skin, tallow helps reinforce the barrier, reduces water loss, and provides deep nourishment with an immediate effect.
In oily skin, purified tallow has a low to moderate comedogenic index and is generally well tolerated. Its affinity with the skin’s natural lipids tends to stabilise oil production, helping to balance the skin without clogging pores when used in appropriate amounts. Every skin is unique, and we recommend starting with a small quantity to observe how your skin responds.
Sources: Russell et al., 2024; Kowalska et al., 2017; Abd Rahman et al., 2011.
Yes. Tallow can bring comfort to sensitive or compromised skin because it reinforces the skin barrier and helps reduce irritation. Studies show improvements in skin affected by atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis when lipids compatible with those of the skin are applied, including tallow-based preparations. There are also reports of good tolerance in acne-prone skin due to its soothing and balancing action. However, we believe that skin health begins from within: a nourishing diet and a balanced lifestyle always have a positive impact. Our products can support this foundation by providing natural hydration and comfort.
Sources: Kowalska et al., 2017; Lee et al., 2020.
A very subtle residual aroma inherent to tallow may remain, but most of the fragrance comes from the plants we macerate. The result is a light, natural, and pleasant aroma. Some people even say that our vanilla balm smells so delicious it feels almost edible.
Orders are dispatched via priority mail, ensuring a fast and secure delivery. Within mainland Portugal, delivery typically takes up to two business days after dispatch. For the islands and for international destinations, delivery times may be longer and vary depending on the destination and the selected shipping service.
Once the order has been dispatched, customers receive email and/or SMS notifications with shipping and tracking information. During periods of higher volume, such as public holidays or festive seasons, additional delays by the carriers may occur. Nevertheless, we always make every effort to ensure that each order is prepared and delivered with the utmost care and efficiency.