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Crafted From Flame

The unexpected journey of turning slow-smoked tallow into simple, powerful, nutrient-rich skincare essentials.

Article by Kylie Strawn-Badger

Photography by Caldwell County BBQ

Originally published in Gilbert City Lifestyle

Caldwell County BBQ’s expansion into skincare began with the same philosophy that shaped their barbecue from the beginning: use every part of what they cook and operate with intention. As the business grew, co-owner Travis Taylor noticed how much premium beef tallow their briskets produced. Instead of letting that nutrient-rich ingredient go to waste, he began experimenting with traditional tallow balms. With the help of Jose Morales, an employee who shared a passion for natural ingredients and hands-on craftsmanship, those early experiments became the foundation of Caldwell Cosmetics.

For those unfamiliar with tallow, it remains one of the most naturally compatible moisturizers available. Packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, and essential fatty acids that mirror the skin’s own structure, tallow absorbs easily, supports the skin barrier, and nourishes deeply without synthetic fillers. Each product is handcrafted in small batches, rendered, blended, and poured by hand to maintain purity, consistency, and a level of craftsmanship that mirrors the care behind their barbecue.

Sustainability plays a central role as well. By repurposing brisket trimmings from their kitchens, they reduce waste, honor the whole animal, and transform a traditional ingredient into something both modern and meaningful. Their scent profiles are intentionally simple, clean, approachable, and made with essential oils, ensuring each balm, lotion, or whipped blend is something they’d proudly use themselves.

As more shoppers seek clean, non-toxic skincare, Caldwell Cosmetics encourages starting with the basics: short ingredient lists, real components, and formulas that rely on nutrient density rather than complexity. Even their tallow candles reflect this approach, slow burning, clean, and nostalgic, offering a natural alternative to paraffin blends.

Looking forward, they envision Caldwell Cosmetics as an extension of the hospitality their guests already love, with future ideas including seasonal scents, beard products, lip gloss, and expanded lotion lines, all crafted with the same intentionality that defines their brand.

Businesses featured in this article