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On a quest to soothe her persistent acne, Nicole Moore discovered tallow-based products and began a wellness and business journey.
Her company, Clara & Fritz, based in Mullica Hill, hand produces various sundries, from lip balm to sun protection to face and body moisturizers, that place rendered beef fat in the forefront.
The use of tallow has been in the news recently. Can you tell us what it is and why you began working with it?
Tallow is rendered beef fat and has been used for centuries as a deeply nourishing moisturizer. It only fell out of favor with the rise of cheaper, synthetic alternatives—both in skin care and cooking. My journey to creating these products began out of personal necessity. After years of struggling with acne well into my 30s and trying countless “clean” skin-care lines with little success, I finally made my own tallow-based moisturizer—and I never looked back. It was the first thing that truly worked for my skin, and that experience sparked the entire line.
Why does tallow benefit skin?
It is uniquely compatible with human skin because its composition closely resembles our own natural sebum, because it contains fatty acids that absorb easily, nourish deeply, and support the skin’s natural barrier. It’s non-comedogenic [won’t clog pores] and provides a nontoxic, effective alternative to synthetic moisturizers. Tallow is also naturally rich in vitamins like A, which supports cell turnover, and vitamin E, known to offer antioxidant protection, as well as vitamins D and K that contribute to elasticity, moisture retention and healing.
Tell us about your collection.
Clara & Fritz’s tallow line is completely synthetic- and paraben-free. Studies have shown that what you put on your skin is absorbed by your body and ends up in your bloodstream. Many skin-care products—even some of those billed as clean—contain ingredients that can cause endocrine disruptions, allergic reactions and more. For my scented products, I add essential oils to take advantage of their positive, health-promoting properties, as well as their scent profiles.
Are there specific skin conditions that tallow benefits?
Tallow is beneficial for all skin types, but it’s especially soothing for sensitive, irritated or reactive skin. Its gentle, nutrient-rich profile makes it ideal for those looking for simple yet powerful skin care—whether you’re dealing with dryness, eczema, or just want to support a healthy skin barrier.
What about sun protection?
Our Summer Balm is a natural, mineral-based sunscreen made with 20 percent zinc oxide. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin, it sits on the surface to physically block UV rays. Because of this, it may need to be reapplied, depending on sun exposure and individual sensitivity. It’s best used alongside other sun-safe habits, like wearing a hat or seeking shade during peak sun hours.
What is the most surprising quality of tallow?
Tallow is generally well tolerated and safe for all skin types. What surprises most people is how incredibly simple and yet versatile it is. Beyond being a powerful moisturizer, we also use it as a base for products like soaps, deodorants, lip balms and more. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most effective solutions are the most elemental.
Clara & Fritz Tallow Shop: 34 North Main Street, Mullica Hill; 856-264-0007.
