This nourishing balm blends the skin-loving power of grass-fed tallow, jojoba oil, and castor oil to create a rich, hydrating balm that melts effortlessly into the skin. It's simple, natural, and incredibly effective — perfect for dry hands, face, body, or anywhere your skin needs extra care.
Tallow is the hero ingredient — rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, and biologically similar to the oils our skin naturally produces. It deeply moisturises, supports skin repair, and strengthens the barrier function, helping to lock in moisture and soothe irritation.
Jojoba oil adds balance and lightness. Because it mimics the skin's natural sebum, it absorbs quickly and helps regulate oil production without clogging pores.
Vitamin E oil can also be used instead of Jojoba oil
Castor oil brings its own impressive benefits: it's rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and deeply hydrating properties. It helps attract and retain moisture (a natural humectant), softens rough or flaky skin, and can even support collagen production for smoother, more supple skin. It also gives the balm a smoother texture and a beautiful, silky glide.
When choosing your tallow, look for high-quality, grass-fed tallow that has been gently rendered and doesn't have a strong beefy smell. If you've previously purchased tallow for cooking and found one with a neutral scent, that's ideal for skincare use.
You can keep your balm unscented or choose essential oils based on your skin needs or scent preferences. A few lovely options include:
Lavender: calming, soothing, and ideal for irritated or sensitive skin.
Chamomile: gentle and anti-inflammatory — perfect for delicate or reactive skin.
Frankincense: promotes skin renewal, tones, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Sandalwood: deeply moisturising and grounding, great for dry or mature skin.
Rose: nourishing, balancing, and emotionally uplifting, while supporting skin hydration and elasticity.
Add up to 8 drops (of one oil or a blend) once your balm has cooled slightly to preserve the therapeutic qualities of the oils.
Texture adjustments: In warm climates, add slightly more tallow or reduce the carrier oils to prevent the balm from becoming too soft or runny.
In cold climates, add a little extra carrier oil (jojoba or castor) to keep it from setting too firm.
Melting order: Always melt the tallow first, then add the jojoba and castor oils. Add essential oils last, once the mixture has cooled below about 40°C.
Shelf life: Typically lasts 6–12 months when stored in a cool, dark place. Use clean, dry fingers or a small spatula to keep it fresh.
Customisation: Experiment with essential oils or leave it unscented for sensitive skin or baby use.
I have started with 80g as a relatively small amount so that you can customise your next one
1. Sterilise jars
Add 400 ml water to the Thermomix bowl, insert the basket, and place jars (only add the lids if they are metal, not plastic) upside down inside the simmering basket.
Steam to sterilise: 10 minutes | 100°C | speed 2.
Set jars aside, empty the water, and dry the mixing bowl thoroughly.
2. Melt the tallow
Add your measured tallow (e.g. 80 g) to the clean, dry Thermomix bowl.
Heat: 50°C | 5 minutes | speed 1, until fully melted.
3. Add Jojoba/Vit E and Castor oil
Once melted, add jojoba or Vit E oil (20 g) and castor oil (10 g).
Mix: 10 seconds | speed 2, to combine.
4. Cool slightly before essential oils
Let the mixture cool for a few minutes so it's warm but not hot (ideally below ~40°C).
Add your chosen essential oil drops (optional).
Mix briefly: 5 seconds | speed 2.
5. Pour and set
Immediately pour into sterilised jars.
Leave uncovered until completely cool and set, then seal with lids.
This challenge is your opportunity to make healthier choices and commit to nutritious eating for 7 days - all with the help of your incredible Thermomix®.
