Our Founder

Hannah's Background

I come from a background in green technology and natural products, frequently traveling between the U.S. and Asia and living out of a suitcase for years. As a Korean-American, the 10-step skincare routine was second nature to me. But when I entered my early 40s, hormonal changes began to affect my skin in ways I hadn’t experienced before. The products I had trusted for years suddenly stopped working, causing irritation, breakouts, and imbalance instead of nourishment and renewal.

That turning point inspired me to reimagine what skincare could be. I wanted products that simplified the routine without compromising performance, designed to support aging and hormonally changing skin with fewer, more intentional steps. From the beginning, sustainability and plant-based ingredients became the foundation of that vision.

Hannah's Journey

While many skincare brands rely on water as their main ingredient, I saw an opportunity to do things differently. With global water scarcity becoming an urgent issue, I chose to use certified organic floral and herbal hydrosols instead, potent and nutrient-rich alternatives that deliver real benefit to the skin.

My journey began with curiosity, testing natural ingredients on myself, then training as a skincare formulator to create purposeful, plant-based formulations. Botanical Republic officially launched in January 2020. Just months later, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to pause operations, serving as a humbling reminder of the importance of health and conscious living.

That experience strengthened my belief that skincare should evolve with time and with life. Botanical Republic was created for those who share that belief, for people who seek results-driven, a skincare that honors both the beauty of change and the wisdom of nature.

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.