Why Comando Uses Kidney Fat (And Why It Matters for Your Skin)

Why Comando Uses Kidney Fat (And Why It Matters for Your Skin)

At Comando, we believe skincare should be simple, effective, and rooted in time-tested wisdom. That’s why our hero ingredient—the one we refine, whip, and jar with intention—is none other than kidney fat, also known as suet.

Yes, kidney fat. Not just any animal fat, and certainly not random trimmings. We use the prized fat that surrounds the kidneys of grass-fed, free-range Angus cattle. Here’s why:

1. The Purest Form of Tallow

Kidney fat is considered the most nutrient-dense and cleanest fat on the animal. Unlike subcutaneous fat (the fat under the skin), suet is naturally protected inside the body, which means it’s less exposed to toxins or external contaminants. That makes it ideal for rendering into a smooth, clean tallow that your skin will drink up.

2. Rich in Skin-Loving Nutrients

Suet-based tallow is exceptionally rich in:

  • Vitamins A, D, E, and K – all essential for skin barrier repair, elasticity, and cellular regeneration.

  • Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) – a powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound.

  • Stearic and oleic acid – fatty acids that mimic your skin’s natural oils, deeply moisturising without clogging pores.

This unique composition makes kidney fat-based tallow bioavailable, meaning your skin recognises it, absorbs it, and uses it efficiently.

3. Superior Texture and Scent

From a formulation perspective, suet tallow renders into a creamier, more luxurious base than other fats. It has a mild, almost neutral scent when properly refined—allowing us to blend in subtle essential oils without that telltale “beefy” note. The end result? A whipped cream that feels velvety, sinks in fast, and leaves your skin soft, dewy, and calm.

4. Ethical, Local, and Low-Waste

We source our kidney fat locally from a Cape Town-based butchery and restaurant that raises their Angus cattle the right way: free-range, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, and halal. By using suet that would otherwise be discarded, we’re not only honouring the whole animal but also lowering waste in the beauty supply chain. It’s skincare with a conscience.

In a world of over-complicated routines and synthetic ingredients, Comando brings it back to the basics—with elegance. Our suet-based tallow is a nod to old-world beauty rituals, elevated for modern skin needs.

Try it. Your skin will thank you.

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