Founder & Formulator

 

Founder & Formulator - Botanical Republic

I come from a background in green technology and natural products, frequently traveling between the U.S. and Asia and lived out of my suitcase for several years. As a Korean-American, the famous 10-step routine was ingrained in my system, and I spent so much time refilling small travel containers with all my skincare. Then when I turned 40, it was visibly noticeable that the products stopped working for me, possibly from ingredient immunity, and instead harmed my skin with breakouts and blemishes.

One day, I was visiting a friend who was pregnant in her late 30’s, I was struck by her glowing skin and how natural products played a role. The high cost of those products inspired me to research and experiment with ingredients that could hydrate and fight premature aging in fewer steps. From the start, sustainability and plant-based formulations became essential to my vision.

Many skincare brands rely on water as their main ingredient, but with global water scarcity on the rise, I knew there had to be a better way. At Botanical Republic, we use certified organic floral and herbal hydrosols instead. My journey began with curiosity testing natural ingredients on myself, then training as a skincare formulator to bring purposeful, plant-based skincare to life.

Botanical Republic marked its beginning in January 2020. Regrettably, just a few months thereafter, the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, requiring us to temporarily shutdown our operations. This unprecedented event was a profound reminder for all of us, underscoring the importance of a healthier and sustainable lifestyle in the beauty industry. I truly believe that many skincare consumers will gravitate towards the principles of the conscious beauty that Botanical Republic believes in.

Sincerely,

Hannah Kim

HANNAH'S SIMPLE SKINCARE ROUTINE

MORNING SKINCARE ROUTINE

I have extremely dry skin so hydrating my skin is always my first priority. I stay away from foaming cleansers because they can strip the skin and cause more dryness. Instead, I use Revive Gentle Emollient Cleanser. It works beautifully for all skin types, especially for mature skin, leaving the skin soft and hydrated.

After cleansing, I apply Radiant Hydrating Toner to help balance my skin’s pH level. It contains Tamarind Seed extract, which studies have shown to outperform hyaluronic acid in moisture retention. Before the toner completely dries, I layer Regenerate Reviving Serum to lock in hydration and boost skin resilience.

To finish, I use two pumps of Replenish Antioxidant Moisturizer, followed by a tinted sunblock. This completes my morning ritual, keeping my skin nourished, balanced, and protected throughout the day.

EVENING SKINCARE ROUTINE

I begin by washing my hands with soap and warm water to remove any germs, then I dry them completely. Clean hands are the first step to clean skin.

To dissolve makeup or tinted sunscreen, I use Nourish Hydrating Cleansing Oil. This step gently removes impurities without stripping the skin. I follow with Revive Gentle Emollient Cleanser to complete the double cleansing process, ensuring my skin feels soft and refreshed.

After cleansing, I apply Radiant Hydrating Toner to restore balance and hydration. While my skin is still slightly damp, I use Lift Resurfacing Serum to help refine texture and support overnight renewal.

I finish my evening routine with Replenish Antioxidant Moisturizer, sealing in moisture and nourishing my skin as it rests and recovers overnight.

HANNAH'S SKINCARE ROUTINE COLLECTION

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