Frequently Asked Questions

Tallow is rendered animal fat, typically from grass-fed cattle. For skincare, we use the nutrient-dense suet fat around the kidneys, gently simmered at low heat and triple-filtered to preserve vitamins A, D, E, and K2. This creates a pure, stable moisturizer that closely mimics the natural oils of human skin.

No. Tallow’s fatty acid profile is similar to human sebum, which means the skin recognizes it and absorbs it easily. It’s non-comedogenic for most skin types and helps restore balance rather than blocking pores.

Grass-fed tallow naturally contains bioavailable vitamins A, D, E, and K2. These fat-soluble nutrients support collagen production, skin elasticity, barrier repair, and protection from oxidative stress — all essential for healthy, resilient skin.

Yes. Because tallow mirrors the fats found in human skin, it’s gentle enough for delicate conditions like eczema, diaper rash, or cradle cap. VAER balms are free from seed oils, synthetics, and fragrances that often trigger irritation.

Properly rendered grass-fed tallow has no meaty smell. At VAER, we render suet slowly and filter it three times, creating a neutral base that’s then enhanced with therapeutic-grade essential oils for a clean, pleasant scent.

Unlike seed oils, which are high in unstable polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), tallow is rich in stable saturated and monounsaturated fats. This makes it more resistant to oxidation, longer-lasting on the shelf, and safer for your skin barrier.

Yes. Tallow replenishes the fats your skin barrier needs to stay strong and flexible. Its vitamins and lipids calm irritation, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support healing for inflammatory conditions.

Beeswax forms a breathable barrier that helps lock in moisture without clogging pores. It supports soft, hydrated skin by preventing water loss and protecting the outer layer from dryness and irritation.

Beeswax is considered low on the comedogenic scale. It does not clog pores for most people because it creates a light, breathable seal rather than a heavy occlusive layer.

Yes. Pure, high quality beeswax is well tolerated by sensitive skin. It calms irritation by sealing moisture in and shielding the skin from environmental stress.

Beeswax helps stabilize the balm, improves texture, and creates the protective seal that tallow and jojoba absorb into. It gives VÆR balms their smooth structure and long lasting hydration.

Yes. Beeswax supports the outer barrier by sealing moisture in and reducing water loss. It protects dry or fragile areas and helps the skin maintain a calm, resilient state.

Beeswax contains natural compounds that offer mild antibacterial properties. These help support clean, balanced skin and assist in calming areas prone to irritation.

Beeswax helps soothe dry, flaky, or irritated skin by sealing in moisture and protecting the barrier. Many people with eczema find beeswax based balms comfortable and calming.

Yes, jojoba oil regulates natural oil production without clogging pores. 

Jojoba is a plant wax that closely resembles human sebum. This makes it highly compatible with the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It regulates hydration, supports elasticity, and delivers a soft, non greasy finish.

Yes. Jojoba helps balance excess sebum and does not oxidize the way many seed oils do. This makes it suitable for oily and acne prone skin that needs moisture without clogging pores.

Jojoba works with tallow to create a balanced lipid profile. It softens the texture, improves absorption, and enhances skin barrier support. Together they create a stable, skin identical moisturizer.

Yes. Jojoba supports the outer skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss and helping replenish natural wax esters. This promotes long lasting hydration and calm.

Most people with sensitive skin tolerate jojoba well because it is stable, non reactive, and structurally similar to the skin’s own oils. It is a gentle ingredient that supports calm and resilience.

Jojoba is considered non comedogenic for most people. It absorbs cleanly and does not promote pore blockage. It is often recommended for combination and breakout prone skin.

Calendula is a flower known for its calming and restorative properties. It supports skin comfort by reducing visible redness and helping the outer layer stay balanced and hydrated. It has been used for centuries to soothe irritation and promote healthy looking skin.

Yes. Calendula is extremely gentle and well tolerated by sensitive or compromised skin. It helps calm visible irritation and supports natural recovery without causing dryness or stinging.

Calendula contains unique carotenoids, flavonoids, and plant esters that target both comfort and moisture. It calms irritation while supporting a balanced outer barrier, offering a more complete soothing effect than many single note herbs.

Yes. Calendula is known for its ability to reduce visible redness and ease discomfort. It supports the skin during times of sensitivity and helps restore a more even looking tone.

Calendula supports hydration and recovery by helping the skin hold moisture and remain calm. It is often used for dry, rough, or chapped areas that need gentle nourishment.

Arrowroot is a natural starch from tropical plant rhizomes. It is used in skincare to absorb excess oil, reduce shine, and create a smooth, dry finish. It supports a comfortable feel on the skin without disrupting moisture levels.

Yes. Arrowroot helps reduce the oily feel of rich balms. It absorbs surface shine and gives tallow formulas a soft, silky finish that feels clean rather than heavy.

Arrowroot is gentle and well tolerated by most skin types. It is non comedogenic and does not clog pores. Its ability to reduce surface oil makes it appropriate for acne-prone and combination skin.

Grounded. Wise. Real.

The texture is velvety and anchoring, the scent is calming rather than loud, and the after-feel is nourished—not coated. When you go back to conventional moisturizers, you should immediately notice how artificial they feel.

Yes, when used in the right amounts. VÆR formulates all blends below 2 percent to ensure gentleness even for dry or sensitive skin.

Synthetic fragrances mimic scent but lack the therapeutic benefits of true botanicals. Essential oils support both skin and sensory wellness.

Yes. Essential oils interact with the limbic system. They can calm, uplift, clarify, or restore focus depending on the plant.

Most essential oils in low dilution are safe. However, pregnant users should check with their doctor if they have concerns. VÆR uses gentle, non-phototoxic oils suitable for daily topical use.

Most are steam-distilled. Citrus oils are typically cold-pressed from fresh peels. VÆR selects extraction types that preserve purity and aroma integrity.

They are natural products influenced by rainfall, soil, climate, and harvest timing. This variation signals authenticity, not inconsistency.