Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions when using Tallow products.

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Where do we deliver and where are we based

We are a South African based company operating from Western Cape, George. We deliver country wide as well as internationally.

Why is my product grainy

Our balms are crafted from a blend of solid saturated fats (tallow) and liquid unsaturated fats (olive or jojoba oil), each with distinct melting points. When exposed to varying temperatures, some of these fats may melt and then solidify again at different rates. This process can cause the formation of small, bead-like grains in the balm. There may also be a whitish colour on the balm itself due to these temperature changes. There is no impact on the quality of the balm and it is completely safe to use.

Simply rub the balm between your hands to melt the grains and apply as desired.

What is the % dilution of your essential oils in your products

We use a 1% essential oil dilution in our balms except for our healing balm that has a 2% dilution. Our baby bum balm has a 0,25% dilution.

Are the consistencies of the tallow balms different

For every batch of tallow we use the same quality ingredients and grass fed tallow, however, even then each batch can vary in consistency due to it being an natural product. Variances come from specifics of the cattle’s environment such as their particular diet, the climate, the species of cow, and the cow’s age. Tallow is the fat primarily surrounding the kidneys which is rich in fatty acids. The molecular structure of the fatty acids in each cow are different from those environmental factors which can affect the texture of the final product.

Will the weather affect my tallow balm

Tallow behaves like many natural fats – solidifying in cold conditions and becoming soft in warmer temperatures. The balm's consistency can vary with temperature changes, especially during winter. If you prefer your tallow harder you can always put it in the refrigerator. If you prefer it softer leave it out (but not in direct sunlight) - just note in humid environment tallow may sweat/ oils may separate.

Do I have to re-apply my sunblock

Prevention against sunburn is probably one of the most common reasons why people wear sunscreen. No one wants red, hot, and uncomfortable skin. As long as you wear your Twine and Co Organics Tallow sunblock while you’re outside and keep reapplying every couple of hours, you won’t have to worry about this!

Can children and babies use essential oils

‘’Great caution is necessary for infants. Since neonatal skin does not mature until three months of age, it is more sensitive and more permeable to essential oils. A newborn is also less equipped to deal with any adverse effect than an adult because of a lower metabolic capacity, i.e., enzymes present in lower concentrations. These cautions apply even more to premature babies, and here it would be prudent to avoid use of all essential oils.’’

In this case we suggest using our unscented tallow balm.

For the bum balm we used a 0,25% dilution.

New to tallow balm? Here's how to store it

Place your tallow balm in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight.

Which variety of Tallow Balm is best for pregnant and breastfeeding women and children

We would suggest our Twine & Co Organics Unscented Tallow Balm (without essential oils). It is completely safe for babies and it can even be used while pregnant. 

Why do you add cold pressed virgin olive oil to your balms

To make it spreadable and to add therapeutic qualities. Since ancient times, olive oil has been considered a healing salve for the skin due to its soothing, cleansing, moisturizing, and anti-cancer properties. Having high levels of antioxidants, like vitamin E, carotenoids, and oleuropein.

Is your tallow balm organic

Our Tallow Balm is not certified organic. However we do source the ‘closest to organic’ ingredients that we can find in SA. 

Our tallow comes from a farm local to Western Cape that raises grass fed and finished cattle. Our olive oil from the Klein Karoo is also cold pressed extra virgin olive oil. 

It is costly and time-consuming for a farm to be certified organic, so many excellent producers choose not to be, especially since the large ongoing expense of certification has to be passed on to the consumer. Many consumers choose to "certify" the products they purchase by buying directly from suppliers that they trust, and we do that in your place when obtaining the ingredients for our Twine & Co Organics tallow products.

Is your deodorant suitable for sensitive skin

Yes, it contains all natural, organic healing oils and instead of bicarbonate of soda, we use Magnesium Hydroxide which is also a natural occurring mineral to help absorb and neutralise unwanted odours. 

Does your product contain any synthetic fragrances

No. We use 100% organic essential oils which is plant derived and antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antioxidant properties.

What are the health benefits for using comfrey

Reduce pain, eliminate inflammation, promote growth and strengthen bones , heal skin and improves respiratory health

How often to use our comfrey healing balm

1-3 times a day until your problem is solved or you feel no pain

What is the shelf life of your tallow balm

Our Tallow Balm is most fresh when used before the "best by" date found on the bottom of the product. Normall 6-12 months. All of the ingredients of our Tallow Balm are very shelf-stable. The essential oils in many of our varieties tend to keep the balm fresh much longer than the "best by" date. Twine and Co Organics does not use toxic preservatives or any other chemicals. Simply keep the jar tightly capped and away from heat. For long-term storage, keep any jars you aren't currently using in the refrigerator or freezer, in which case you can expect them to stay fresh for months to years.

Does your tallow products smell like beef

Tallow is of course made from beef so it does have a mild ‘anima/beefy’ smell. Our balms are triple-rendered (to remove most of the animal smell) and added essential oils, known to support and nourish skin, helps mask the scent. That said, some of you with sensitive noses may notice a faint animal scent, especially in our unscented products.  

What is the difference between whipped unwhipped tallow balm

Whipping tallow is similar to whipping frosting for a cake. This process incorporates air into the tallow, resulting in a light, fluffy texture that melts effortlessly into the skin. Whipped tallow balm offers a light, fluffy texture perfect for everyday hydration and easy application.
Unwhipped tallow balm provides intensive moisture and a longer shelf life, ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
Unwhipped tallow balm, with its buttery consistency, can harden in cooler months.

Why use tallow in deodorant

Tallow is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for the skin. It provides a creamy texture that helps the deodorant glide on smoothly and moisturises the skin.

Is this deodorant suitable for sensitive skin

Is this deodorant suitable for sensitive skin

How do I store the deodorant

Store your deodorant in a cool, dry place.

Is this deodorant effective for heavy sweating

This deodorant is effective for controlling odour. It does however help if you follow a healthy lifestyle.  It does not contain aluminum-based compounds found in antiperspirants, and might need a transitioning time to work at its best. The arrowroot powder and magnesium hydroxide help absorb moisture.

Can I use this deodorant immediately after shaving

Yes. It is gentle and moisturising to the skin.

Can my husband also use it

The tea tree and lemon-grass is perfect for men and women, whereas the bergamot and vanilla might be a softer citrusy flavour. 

How much product do I use

Four strokes are more than enough. It is very moisturising, thanks to the tallow and natural oils that we use.

Can I prolong the shelf-life of my product

Yes! You can prolong it by either keeping it in the fridge or even the freezer.