This cream blends the skin-loving power of calendula, known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, with the deeply nourishing, vitamin-rich tallow that mimics the skin’s natural oils. The result is a thick, luxurious balm that melts on contact and supports irritated, dry, or sensitive skin.
Great for: dry patches, eczema-prone skin, rough hands, cracked heels, postpartum care, baby skin (spot use), and general moisturization.
Ingredients & Measurements
This makes roughly 120 ml (4 oz) of cream.
Main Ingredients
- Grass-fed beef tallow — 1/2 cup (approx. 110 g)
- Calendula-infused oil — 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- (Olive oil, jojoba, sweet almond, or sunflower oil all work well)
Optional Enhancements
- Beeswax pellets — 1–2 tsp (for a firmer, salve-like finish)
- Vitamin E oil — 1/2 tsp (natural preservative + skin booster)
- Essential oils — 5–10 drops
- Lavender, chamomile, frankincense, or vanilla blend beautifully
How to Make the Cream
1. Melt the tallow
Place the tallow in a double boiler (or heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water).
Warm gently until completely liquid.
2. Add the calendula oil
Pour your calendula-infused oil into the melted tallow.
Stir to combine.
3. (Optional) Add beeswax
If you prefer a firmer balm, add the beeswax pellets now and allow them to melt fully.
4. Cool slightly
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 5–10 minutes.
You want it warm but not hot—this protects delicate nutrients.
5. Add vitamin E + essential oils
Stir them in thoroughly.
6. Pour into clean jars
Use glass jars (amber is ideal).
Let the cream solidify at room temperature or in the fridge.
🌿 Benefits of This Cream
⭐ Calendula
- Soothes irritation, redness, and inflammation
- Promotes wound healing
- Hydrates while supporting the skin barrier
- Safe for sensitive and baby skin
⭐ Tallow
- Rich in vitamins A, D, E, K, and essential fatty acids
- Mimics human sebum for deep absorption
- Highly nourishing for dry, cracked, or eczema-prone skin
- Naturally antimicrobial
⭐ Combination Benefits
Together, calendula and tallow create a powerful skin-restoring blend that is both gentle and effective, suitable for everyday use or targeted healing.
How to Use It
- Scoop a pea-sized amount and warm it between your fingers until it melts.
- Apply to clean skin on the face or body.
- Use as:
- Night face cream
- Hand + body salve
- Baby bottom balm (without essential oils)
- After-sun soother
- Lip balm
- For very dry skin, use twice daily.
Usage Tips
- A little goes a long way—tallow is richly hydrating.
- For facial use, start with a small amount to see how your skin responds.
- If using essential oils, avoid the eye area.
- For extra softness, apply to slightly damp skin.
How to Keep the Lotion From Going Bad
1. Use clean tools
Always use clean, dry hands or a small spatula to scoop the cream.
2. Keep water out
Water is the primary factor in microbial growth.
This formulation is anhydrous (oil-based), which helps it last longer—just ensure no water enters the jar.
3. Add vitamin E
It slows oxidation and keeps oils from going rancid.
4. Store properly
Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
5. Choose glass containers
They help protect the product and prevent contamination from plastics.
Shelf Life
Room Temperature:
6–12 months
(oil-based formula with no water = long-lasting)
Refrigerated:
12–18 months
(colder storage slows oxidation)
If it ever smells sour or “off,” it’s time to discard.