Founded by Caroline Sims in 2018, Botanycl was created after Caroline suffered severe skin problems for many years. A former mental health nurse Caroline states” I’ve always had problems with my skin, I had spots throughout my teenage years which didn’t go away when I transitioned into adulthood". After trying different products with no results, she started to research scientific studies and testimonials which led her to natural, plant-based ingredients.

Firstly, as someone who has struggled with skincare issues - I’m keen to find out what sparked the idea of Botanycl and when you began the groundwork?

After suffering with skin problems for many years and trying so many products, including retinoids and lasers (which didn’t work or caused further damage), I started to look into whether my hormones could be causing the issues. The one thing I hadn't tried for my skin was the combined pill, and this works hormonally. But I wasn't able to use it due to a history of migraines. So I researched herbal and safe alternatives to balance my hormones and came across a few ingredients which looked promising. After taking these plant-based ingredients, my skin completely cleared, and has remained clear ever since. This led me to start developing SkinClear Elixir in 2016, combining the same herbal ingredients.

As a former mental health nurse, what impact do you think facial acne has on someone's self-esteem?

Acne can have a big impact on self-esteem, especially because we have a tendency to really focus on our own flaws, and feel that the world is studying us in this way too. Luckily, there are so many acne-positivity bloggers/ influencers now, which is amazing, as their content focuses on loving ourselves regardless of our perceived flaws. I wish I had seen these positive messages back in 2016 when I felt the impact of acne on my self-esteem. I actually stopped leaving the house and I didn’t want my new boyfriend to see me without make-up. It really did impact my confidence, and does for so many women.

Why do you feel your customers continue to say yes to Botanycl?

The product's results speak for themselves as we've had a fantastic 73% success with clearing acne in women. Many women describe SkinClear Elixir as changing their life due to giving them their confidence back - this is the most rewarding part. And the product is a low maintenance solution to targeting skin problems from within - free from the side effects associated with drying creams and prescriptions.

What role do you play within the business?

I oversee product development, business strategy and overall operations of my online site. I act as the main point of communication and make decisions to help develop my business.

Talk me through the Botanycl products and how potential customers should approach them for the first time?

SkinClear Elixir is our signature supplement that contains evidence-based botanicals to support female hormone balance, and a clear and blemish-free complexion from within. Customers should take two capsules per day with meals to help achieve clear skin. Results are typically seen after two months of use.

Our Plant-based Vitamin C is 100% naturally derived from acerola cherry, rosehips and camu camu, alongside black elderberry for added immune support. It is one of the first natural supplements on the market which doesn't artificially fortify the plant extracts with ascorbic acid. Vitamin C helps to support your immune system and helps with collagen formation in the skin. You should take two capsules per day with or without food.

Our Vegan Vitamin D3 comes from lichen, one of the only known plant sources of Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is the most bioactive form of Vitamin D. This vitamin is essential to support a healthy immune system. Take 1 capsule a day, preferably with a meal.

How do you choose the right stockists for your business?

As my products only use natural and wholefood ingredients, I look for stockists that share this ethos. One of our stockists, Holland and Barrett are putting an emphasis on natural wellness, which I felt was a good fit.

What advice would you give to early-stage founders building a business that directly rivals bigger brands in their industry?

Use word of mouth and social media as a way to generate awareness for your brand. Ask real customers to share their experience of the product with their friends. Genuine results work better than ads. Consumers can see from real people how beneficial SkinClear Elixir is and how successful it’s been in helping achieve clear skin. Also, don't be afraid to compete with bigger brands. If you have a good product that works, and a passion, then you will be able to make it a success.

How would you summarise the ethos behind Botanycl in 7 words?

Helping women everywhere to regain confidence, naturally.

Morning routine or night routine?

Both.

Do you have any new products in the works?

We are in the process of launching a new hair growth supplement! Watch this space!

What’s next for Botanycl?

My aim would be to continue to build the brand globally, and expand the natural supplement range. So far, the range includes supplements for immune support, skin health and energy. Our new hair growth supplement has a very exciting ingredient list, which I am excited to launch in the beauty space.