The Story of the American Bison

Once roaming in the tens of millions across North America, the American bison faced
decimation in the 1800s from overhunting and habitat loss. By the end of that century, fewer than a thousand remained (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service).


Today, thanks to sustained conservation and restoration efforts—including those by tribes and organizations—populations have rebounded. Approximately 20,000 wild bison now live in conservation herds, with hundreds of thousands in managed commercial herds (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service).

Conservation Today: Why It Matters

  • The American bison remains classified as Near Threatened due to ongoing ecological and genetic challenges (IFAW).

Why Bison Tallow? The Heritage & Skincare Connection

Buff Bar® derives its identity and purpose from bison—not just as an ingredient but as a living symbol of resilience.

A. Superior Skin Compatibility

Bison tallow shares a structural similarity with human skin oils, making it more bio-compatible and nourishing than alternatives like beef, plant oils, or goat’s milk PubMed – Therapeutic Benefits of Tallow in Skincare

  • Its balanced composition of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins supports deeper hydration and is less likely to leave a waxy residue.

B. Rich Nutrient Profile

Holistically raised bison develop fat with higher concentrations of CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), stearic acid, and vitamins A, D, E & K. This translates into superior nourishment, skin barrier support, and hydration compared to other fats.

C. Multi-Use & Sustainable

Bison tallow is versatile: from cooking to skincare, its stability at high heat and lipid compatibility make it a better natural choice.
Most importantly, Buff Bar™’s zero-waste approach honors the animal and the land by utilizing every part of the animal (AP News).

FAQs About Bison Tallow

1. Why bison tallow instead of beef tallow?

Bison tallow is lighter, cleaner, and structurally closer to human skin oils than beef tallow — even grass-fed beef. That means it absorbs faster, feels smoother, and hydrates more effectively without leaving a waxy residue.

2. How does holistically fed bison make a difference?

Bison raised on open pasture with holistic feed develop a fat profile richer in CLA, stearic acid, and vitamins A, D, E & K. That means superior nourishment and hydration compared to conventionally raised livestock fats.

3. What makes bison tallow better than goat’s milk or plant-based soap?

Goat’s milk and plant oils can add creaminess, but they lack the bio-compatibility of bison tallow.

Plant oils often sit on top of the skin, while bison tallow is readily absorbed — working with your skin instead of just coating it.

4. Is bison tallow really that different from other animal fats?

Yes. Bison tallow is naturally lighter than beef or lamb tallow, with a fat structure that is closer to human skin lipids. That’s why it feels cleaner, absorbs better, and provides deeper hydration than other animal fats.

5. Can I use bison tallow products on my face?

Yes. Because of its structural similarity to your skin’s natural oils, bison tallow is gentle enough for the face while still being rich enough for dry, cracked areas of the body.

Our Commitment

Through BUFF BAR®,every product helps sustain the story of the bison — from its rebirth on conservation lands to honoring every part of the animal in our formulas. Your choice supports
heritage, ecosystems, and your skin.

any question?