E54: Traditional Skincare from the Homestead: Soapmaking, Animal Fat, and Family Business | Wendy & Karlyn Hartman

E54: Traditional Skincare from the Homestead: Soapmaking, Animal Fat, and Family Business | Wendy & Karlyn Hartman

January 28, 2026 · 39 min · Episode 54

About this episode

Wendy and Karlyn Hartman discuss their journey in creating traditional skincare products from homestead resources.

Wendy and Karlyn Hartman share how their family turned homestead resources like goat milk, lard, and tallow into effective, traditional skincare products that support true skin health. From simplifying cold-process soapmaking to explaining why animal fats have been trusted for centuries, they break down what actually works and why so many people struggle with modern commercial products. We also dive into Karlyn’s quest to perfect natural deodorant, what makes shelf-stable soap, and the blessing of building a family business centered on growth, unity, and learning through the ups and downs of homestead life! In this episode, we cover: - Wendy and Karlyn Hartman’s homesteading journey and how they grew from beginners into educators and business owners- Building a family-run skincare business using resources produced directly on their homestead - Why traditional animal fats like lard and tallow have been used for centuries in soap and skincareThe key differences between lard, tallow, and modern commercial skincare ingredients - How goat milk supports skin health, moisture absorption, and barrier repair - Why many people tolerate animal-based fats better than common plant oils - A…

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