Faq

Thoughtfully Crafted, Naturally Made

Three Rivers Mercantile was built on a simple idea: what you put on your skin should be as clean and intentional as what you put in your body. Each product is made in small batches using carefully sourced ingredients and traditional methods that honor both the land and the people who use them. We believe in transparency, quality, and creating products that truly serve your skin.

Here you’ll find answers to some of our most common questions.

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Yes. We are intentional about sourcing only high-quality, responsibly raised beef suet for our tallow. Our suet comes from trusted farms where cattle are raised on a grass-fed and finished diet, without the use of artificial grains or unnecessary additives. We prioritize sourcing from operations that value natural practices, animal welfare, and clean inputs. Because what goes into our products matters just as much as what stays out, we take care to ensure our ingredients align with the standards we believe in. If you ever have questions about our sourcing or ingredients, we’re always happy to share more.

Do your products smell “beefy”? Sometimes—though not in the way most people expect. Tallow is a naturally nutrient-rich ingredient, and like any whole, unrefined fat, it carries a mild, natural scent. We use only high-quality suet and a gentle rendering process to preserve the integrity of the nutrients, rather than over-processing it to remove all scent. Because of this, those with a sensitive nose may notice a light, clean, natural aroma straight from the jar. Once applied, the scent typically fades quickly as the product absorbs into the skin. Many of our products are also infused with botanicals or essential oils for a more familiar, pleasant scent. We also offer unscented options for those who prefer the most minimal experience. We believe in keeping our ingredients as close to their natural state as possible—because that’s where the real benefit is.

Do you use artificial fragrance oils? No. We do not use synthetic or artificial fragrance oils in our products. We choose to scent our products, when desired, with natural ingredients such as essential oils and botanical infusions. This allows us to stay true to our commitment to simple, honest, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. For those who prefer no added scent at all, we also offer unscented options. We believe what you put on your skin should be just as clean and intentional as what you put in your body.

No—tallow is actually very compatible with our skin. Its natural fatty acid profile is similar to the oils our skin already produces, which allows it to absorb easily without sitting heavily on the surface. Many people find it helps balance their skin rather than clog it. As with any skincare product, everyone’s skin is different. We recommend starting with a small amount and allowing your skin time to adjust. Less is often more with tallow—a little goes a long way.