Using tallow balm for stretch mark prevention

Stretch marks appear when the skin stretches rapidly, outpacing its natural elasticity. Most people encounter them during pregnancy, puberty, or quick weight changes.

Genetics and hormones play a big role, but how you care for your skin can make a difference too. While there’s no magic cream that completely prevents them, keeping your skin nourished and elastic helps a lot.

While plenty of us choose to embrace our stripes as a reminder of growth and change, there are also many who would prefer to take steps to keep stretch marks from forming in the first place.

That’s where tallow balm comes in.

Tallow balm for preventing stretch marks

Tallow is loaded with vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with healthy fats that are surprisingly similar to the oils your skin naturally produces. This makes it super easy for your body to absorb. Instead of sitting on top of the skin, it sinks in and supports your skin barrier, which helps lock in moisture and makes skin feel more resilient.

Many people notice that using tallow balm regularly keeps their skin soft, less itchy, and better able to handle stretching.

The benefits of tallow during pregnancy

A lot of women choose to use tallow when pregnant because it’s simple, deeply moisturising, and free from the long list of additives and synthetic fragrances that can sometimes be irritating during pregnancy.

Since tallow is made up of natural fats and fat-soluble vitamins that are very similar to the oils our skin produces, it’s usually well tolerated and works well for keeping the skin supple as it stretches. 

If using a scented balm, it's important that it only contains essential oils which are safe for pregnancy.

Here’s a list of essential oils that are generally advised to avoid while pregnant (especially in the first trimester):

• Clary sage (can stimulate contractions)
• Sage
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Basil
• Juniper berry
• Wintergreen
• Camphor
• Pennyroyal
• Wormwood

How to use tallow balm for best results

Using tallow balm for stretch mark prevention is pretty simple.

If you’re pregnant, many women find that starting early and keeping up the routine through the whole journey (and even into postpartum recovery) works best. And if you prefer lighter textures, you can also try whipped versions of tallow balm or blends that include oils like jojoba or rosehip.

Treat your skin with care, focusing on long-term results rather than expecting a quick change. You might find this routine helpful:

1. Choose good quality tallow - pick balm made from grass-fed/source-trusted tallow, minimal additives, unscented or lightly scented if you have sensitive skin or are pregnant.  
2. Patch test - before going all in, try a small patch (e.g. inner thigh) to see if there’s any irritation or reaction. 
3. Timing & frequency - the best time to apply it is right after a shower, when your skin is still a little damp. Scoop out a small amount, warm it between your hands, and massage it into areas that are prone to stretch like your belly, hips, thighs, or breasts.  
4. Consistency is key - most people like to use it once or twice a day, and consistency is more important than slathering on tons of product all at once.
5. Layering / combo - you might mix or alternate with other skin-friendly oils (e.g. jojoba, rosehip) that support elasticity. If you use essential oils, check safety in pregnancy.  
6. Lifestyle support - it helps to support skin from the inside too; hydration, nutrition (vitamins & minerals), not gaining weight too rapidly, protecting skin from sun damage.

The science behind preventing stretch marks

Love 'em or hate 'em, stretch marks (striae) sometimes happen. When skin is stretched faster than it can repair its structure (like elastin, collagen) the dermis gets tiny tears. 

Pregnancy, puberty, hormonal changes, and how hydrated your skin is all can contribute to changes in your skin.

Whist some people are more prone to getting stretch marks than others, a recent study on skin treatments showed a 16% increase in skin elasticity with certain creams over 12 weeks. That suggests elasticity is a measurable factor in prevention.

Well-hydrated skin tends to be more elastic, whilst tallow is rich in fat-soluble vitamins  which support skin repair, elasticity and protection from oxidative stress. It also has fatty acids similar to what skin naturally uses, that helps absorption and supports the skin barrier. 

Best tallow balm for preventing stretch marks

At CowSki we believe in simple, traditional skincare that works with your body rather than against it. Tallow balm has been used for generations, and while it won’t erase genetics, it will give your skin the deep nourishment it needs to stretch more comfortably and heal more gracefully.

Want to try it for yourself? Check out our CowSki Tallow Balm collection and start building a daily ritual your skin will thank you for.