Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our products or tallow-based skincare? We've got answers!
About Our Products
What is tallow and why do you use it?
Tallow is rendered fat from grass-fed cows. We use it because its fatty acid composition is remarkably similar to human sebum (our skin's natural oil), making it highly bio-available and easily absorbed. It's rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which support healthy skin function and repair.
Why does Kinwell Roots use suet tallow only for the balms?
We use suet tallow from grass-fed cows because it is the purest and most nutrient-dense fat available on the animal. Suet is the firm fat found around the kidneys and loins. Unlike general trimmings, suet is naturally cleaner, more stable, and more consistent in quality.
Trim fat can come from various parts of the animal and may contain more connective tissue or impurities. Suet, by contrast, produces a smoother, lighter, and more refined finished tallow—ideal for skincare. For us, it’s about starting with the best possible foundation.
Is tallow suitable for all skin types?
Yes! Despite being a rich moisturizer, tallow doesn't clog pores because your skin recognizes and absorbs it efficiently. It works beautifully for dry, oily, combination, sensitive, and mature skin types.
Will tallow products make me smell like beef?
No! Our tallow is carefully rendered and purified multiple times to remove any odor. The natural botanicals we infuse (like frankincense, calendula, chamomile and lavender) provide a subtle, pleasant scent.
Are your products safe for babies and children?
Absolutely! Our products contain only pure, natural ingredients with no synthetic chemicals, making them gentle enough for the whole family. Our Calendula Tallow Balm is especially popular for baby care. For children under 2 years of age, we recommend our Pure Tallow Balms that do not contain essential oils.
How long do your products last?
When stored properly (cool, dry place away from direct sunlight), our tallow balms typically last 6-12 months. Our oils can last up to a year. We make small batches to ensure freshness.
Why does your tallow sometimes sell out?
Because we do it the slow way.
Rendering suet properly takes time, care, and patience. When a batch sells out, it simply means we’re already working ahead—slowly rendering more beautiful suet from our favorite Indiana farmers so we can restock as soon as possible.
We like to say: good things take time… and so does really good tallow.
Ordering & Shipping
How long does shipping take?
We typically process orders within 2-3 business days. Shipping times vary by location but generally take 3-7 business days within the continental US.
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, we ship within the United States. Please contact us if you're interested in international shipping and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
What is your return policy?
Because our skincare products are handcrafted in small batches and designed for personal use, all sales are final once an order has shipped. We are unable to accept returns, exchanges, or offer refunds. This policy helps us maintain the highest standards of safety, purity, and quality for every customer.
If you have questions about a product before purchasing or need help choosing the right fit for your skin, we encourage you to reach out—we’re always happy to help guide you.
Do you offer wholesale?
Yes! We love partnering with retailers and businesses that align with our values. If you’re interested in carrying Kinwell Roots products, please email kinwellroots@gmail.com with the following:
- Business name
- Website
- Social media accounts
- Tax-exempt form (if applicable)
Usage & Application
How do I use tallow balm?
Scoop a small amount and warm it between your fingers. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin for best absorption. A little goes a long way! Use on face, body, hands, or anywhere you need moisture.
Step 1 — Start with Clean Skin
Apply your tallow balm after cleansing. Slightly damp skin will help the balm glide on smoothly and lock in moisture more effectively.
Step 2 — Apply & Massage In
Gently apply a pea-sized amount of balm to your skin, then massage using upward, circular motions. Focus on dry patches, fine lines, or areas needing extra love.
Step 3 — Adjust Based on Skin Type
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- Dry or aging skin: Use daily, morning and night, or layer under makeup for a dewy finish.
- Combination skin: Apply to dry zones only, or use at night as a restorative moisturizer.
- Sensitive skin: Start with every other day to allow your skin to acclimate.
- Oily skin: Use sparingly—often just a touch works beautifully as an overnight treatment.
Step 4 — Allow Time to Absorb
Give the balm a minute or two to fully melt in before applying makeup or SPF.
Step 5 — Use Beyond the Face
Tallow works wonders everywhere—hands, elbows, heels, lips, cuticles, and any area needing deep, nurturing moisture.
Can I use face oils if I have oily skin?
Yes! Facial oils can actually help balance oily skin by signaling to your skin that it doesn't need to produce excess sebum. Start with our lightweight Daily Face Oil.
What's the difference between whipped and regular tallow balm?
Whipped tallow balm has a lighter, fluffier texture that absorbs more quickly, while regular tallow balm is denser and more intensive. Both provide excellent moisture—it's just a texture preference!
Ingredients & Sourcing
Where do you source your tallow?
We source our tallow from family-owned farms in Indiana, where the cattle are grass-fed. Our farming partners practice responsible and humane practices. We believe truly nourishing skincare starts with trusted relationships and thoughtful sourcing close to home.
How is your tallow rendered?
Our tallow is gently rendered using a combination of wet and dry rendering methods. This slow, intentional process removes impurities while preserving the naturally occurring vitamins and fatty acids that make tallow so beneficial for the skin. The result is a clean, nutrient-rich base with a smooth, neutral finish—ideal even for many skin types.
Is all tallow rendered the same way?
No — and this is important. Some commercially processed tallow can be deodorized, bleached, or treated with chemical agents during industrial rendering. While this may make it more uniform for mass production, it’s not aligned with our philosophy of clean, minimally processed skincare.
Our tallow is:
- Sourced from trusted Indiana farmers
- 100% grass-fed
- Rendered slowly in-house
- Filtered naturally
- Never chemically processed
What essential oils do you use?
We use essential oils sourced from Plant Therapy, a brand known for rigorous testing, transparency, and 100% purity . Every batch of their essential oils undergo third-party GC/MS testing to ensure there are no additives or adulterants.
Are your products vegan?
Our tallow-based products are not vegan as they contain grass-fed tallow. However, our face and body oils are plant-based.
Do you use any synthetic ingredients?
Never! We're committed to using only natural, pure ingredients. No synthetic fragrances, petroleum, parabens, phthalates, or artificial preservatives.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact us at kinwellroots@gmail.com and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.