Birch & Oak · Clean, Tallow-Based Skincare
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about grass-fed tallow skincare, oil cleansing, our ingredients, and how to get the most from your Birch & Oak products.
About Birch & Oak
What makes Birch & Oak skincare different?
We make small-batch, tallow-based skincare using only natural, non-toxic ingredients and short labels you can actually read. Everything is handcrafted in Kentucky for people who want clean, effective skincare without synthetic fragrance, fillers, or guesswork.
Where are Birch & Oak products made?
All of our products are handmade in small batches in Kentucky, and we're proud members of the Kentucky Proud program. We support local sourcing whenever possible — including grass-fed tallow from Kentucky farms.
Where can I buy Birch & Oak products?
You can shop online right here on our website, or find our products at select Kroger stores.
Do you test on animals?
Never. Birch & Oak products are never tested on animals.
Do you offer wholesale or retail partnerships?
Yes! We love partnering with wellness shops and retailers. If you're interested in carrying Birch & Oak, reach out through our contact page and we'll be in touch.
Tallow & Ingredients
What is beef tallow and why is it good for your skin?
Tallow is a nutrient-rich fat rendered from grass-fed beef suet. It's naturally high in the skin-loving vitamins A, D, E, and K and closely mirrors the structure of your skin's own oils (sebum). That biocompatibility lets it absorb deeply to nourish, hydrate, and support the skin barrier — especially for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin.
Will tallow clog pores or cause breakouts?
For most people, no. Because grass-fed tallow is so similar to your skin's natural sebum, it tends to balance skin rather than congest it — and a little goes a long way. If your skin is very acne-prone, start with a pea-size amount a few nights a week and see how it responds.
Is tallow skincare safe for sensitive skin and eczema?
Yes. Our products use simple, non-toxic ingredients with no synthetic fragrance, dyes, or preservatives, making them well suited for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. As with any new product, we recommend a quick patch test if you have highly reactive skin.
Do your products contain synthetic fragrance or preservatives?
Never. We don't use synthetic fragrance, parabens, or synthetic preservatives. Any scent in our products comes only from natural essential oils or botanical extracts.
Do you offer fragrance-free options?
Absolutely. Our Unscented Tallow Balm and several other products are completely fragrance-free — ideal for the most sensitive skin. Scented options like Almond & Vanilla get their aroma only from natural botanicals.
Using Our Skincare
How do I use the Tallow Balm?
Warm a small, pea-size amount between clean fingertips and press it into skin, morning and night. It works beautifully on the face and anywhere on the body — dry hands, elbows, heels. A little goes a long way, so start small and add more only if your skin asks for it.
Are your products safe for babies and kids?
Yes! Birch & Oak actually began with a clean diaper cream. Every product is handcrafted with safe, non-toxic, gentle ingredients — ideal for the whole family, including babies.
What's the difference between the Tallow Balm and Rewind Anti-Aging Balm?
The Tallow Balm is pure barrier moisture — just grass-fed tallow and cold-pressed olive oil — perfect for the whole family. Rewind is our anti-aging step: grass-fed tallow blended with jojoba, castor, frankincense, and geranium to support firmer, smoother, more youthful-looking skin overnight.
What's included in the Complete Tallow Skincare Routine?
Four steps: the Oil Cleanser, the Tallow Charcoal Cleansing Balm, your choice of Tallow Balm (Unscented or Almond & Vanilla), and the Rewind Anti-Aging Balm — a full cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and rewind routine built around grass-fed tallow.
Oil Cleansing & Cleansers
What is the oil cleansing method and does it really work?
Oil cleansing works on a simple principle: oil dissolves oil. Instead of stripping your skin with foaming surfactants, a cleansing oil melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while leaving your skin's natural moisture intact. The result is skin that feels clean and balanced rather than tight or squeaky.
How do I use the Oil Cleanser, and will it leave residue?
Massage a few drops into dry skin, then wipe away with a warm, damp cloth. It removes cleanly and won't leave a greasy film. Follow with your Tallow Balm to seal in moisture.
How often should I use the Charcoal Cleansing Balm?
Use it two to three times a week as a deeper cleanse and gentle exfoliation. Activated charcoal draws out congestion while grass-fed tallow keeps skin from feeling stripped. On other days, the Oil Cleanser is all you need.
Cold Sore Relief Balm
How does the Cold Sore Relief Balm work?
It pairs soothing, protective ingredients — grass-fed tallow, lanolin, and beeswax — with Lysine and Zinc and calming botanicals like white willow bark, licorice root, and calendula. Apply a small amount at the first sign of tingling to create a calm, protected environment while your skin recovers. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
When should I apply it for best results?
Apply at the very first sign of dryness, tingling, or irritation, and reapply as needed throughout the day. Each half-ounce tin comes with disposable applicators to keep things hygienic. Keep one in your bag so it's there the moment you need it.
Storage, Shelf Life & Texture
Why did my balm change texture, melt, or harden?
Because we use no stabilizers or synthetic preservatives, our balms naturally soften or firm with temperature during shipping and storage. This is completely normal and harmless and doesn't affect quality — it's a sign of a living, natural product. The balm settles back to its usual texture at room temperature.
How should I store my products and what's the shelf life?
Store all tallow-based skincare in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, and keep the lid sealed between uses. Because we avoid synthetic preservatives, clean, sealed storage gives you the longest shelf life. Use clean, dry fingers or the included applicator to keep products fresh.
Should I give my skin time to adjust to new products?
Yes. Pure, simple ingredients can take a little time to befriend your skin — give any new product two to three weeks of consistent use before judging results. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
Shipping, Returns & Contact
How long will it take to get my order?
Orders are handmade and typically ship and arrive within 5–7 business days. You'll receive tracking details by email as soon as your order is on its way.
What is your return policy?
We stand behind every batch with our Honest Skin Promise. If something isn't right, reach out through our contact page within 30 days and we'll make it right.
Still have a question?
We're happy to help — reach out any time through our contact page and a real person at Birch & Oak will get back to you.