If we haven’t met yet, I’m Julianna—a master esthetician and the community manager here at Botnia. I found my way to Botnia back in 2018, fresh out of esthetics school and brand new to plant-based skincare. Like many estheticians, I had been taught to rely on conventional, synthetic products—the ones promising quick fixes and “overnight” results. 

Over the years, I’ve seen plant-based skincare work its magic—not just in the course of a single 90-minute facial, but over weeks, months, and years. I want to share (and debunk) some of the myths surrounding plant-based skincare—ones that might change the way you think about plants and skin.

Whether you’re an esthetician considering a more holistic approach for your guests or you’re rethinking your own home care regimen, this is for you.

Myth #1: Plant-based skincare isn’t as effective as conventional skincare.

Conventional skincare is a lot like fast food: it feels good in the moment but doesn’t do anything for your long term health. Sure, conventional skincare might give you a quick result, but at what cost? There aren’t any shortcuts to long term health, and over time I’ve found this to be especially true for the skin.

Plant-based skincare on the other hand is like eating a whole foods, plant-based diet. It tastes good, feels good, looks good, and gives better results that last longer. What’s so fascinating is how closely our biology aligns with our plant friends. 

Here’s a fun fact: plants have an epidermis (aka their version of skin) just like we do. Their epidermal cells protect them from pathogens and environmental stress so they can thrive—just as our skin protects us. Our skin intuitively recognizes and utilizes plant-based ingredients, which is why we’re able to see such profound results without unwanted effects.

Plant epidermis of a leaf (left), human skin (right)

Myth #2: Plant-based products don’t contain strong enough active ingredients to create results.

Plant-based skincare is far from lacking active ingredients for major results. Take our Well Serum, for example. Unlike synthetic retinoids that often cause redness, flakiness, and sensitivity (and require lifestyle adjustments to use safely), Well Serum uses algae as a natural source of vitamin A. This plant-derived retinoid improves texture, boosts collagen and elastin production, calms breakouts, and keeps skin hydrated and plump—all without irritation and inflammation.

Unlike synthetic actives, which are often concentrated and can lead to irritation, inflammation and long-term damage, plant-based actives offer a gentler, more holistic approach to treating the skin. Plants are like nature’s sweet little chemists, producing compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, polyphenols, and fatty acids that work synergistically to support overall skin health. 

Plant-based ingredients like calendula contain naturally occurring carotenoids to soothe and repair, while rosehips in certain forms are packed with vitamin C and beta carotene to support collagen production and brighten skin tone. With Botnia’s professional line there’s a variety of plant actives that deliver some incredible results, including enzymes, AHAs, BHAs, and plant acids like hyaluronic and lactic.

Myth #3: Plant-based products take too long to show results.

Here’s an analogy: you plant a seed and tend to it every day until you see a sprout. Then you tend to the sprout until it’s strong enough to support itself. It’s the same in getting results with your skin. It might take a little patience but in the long run you’ll have a healthier skin barrier that’s strong enough to also support itself. 

The most important thing is to consider the skin’s natural, biological functions and the speed at which they work. When you work with the skin–supporting it with plants–instead of forcing it to speed up its processes, you’ll see quicker, better results for the long term. The beauty of skin is that everyone’s skin is different, completely unique to their genetic makeup. The beauty of plants is that they’re for everyone and always have been. We’re a part of this incredible ecosystem, a synergistic relationship with nature. We are nature.

Ready to bring plants to your practice?

If you’re considering plants for your practice, there might be a whole host of reasons. Maybe you’re at your wit’s end with finding something that works. Maybe your guests are looking for a holistic approach that also speaks to your values. Or perhaps you haven’t been getting the results you want in the treatment room and beyond. 

If you’re an esthetician looking to add plants to your practice, stay tuned for our next blog: The Esthetician’s Guide to Plant-Based Skincare: What to Know Before You Switch.

If you’re ready to bring plants to your home care regimen, check out our guide to making the personal switch here.

Xo,
Julianna
Botnia Master Esthetician