Skincare Routine Guide
Simple, botanical rituals for healthy, radiant skin.
Ingredient Library
At Botika, we believe that understanding your ingredients is just as important as using them.
Every ingredient we use is thoughtfully selected to support balance, nourishment, and healthy, radiant skin — working in harmony with your skin, not against it. This library covers every active we use, what the science says, and which products you'll find it in.
Priority Ingredients
Bakuchiol
A gentle, plant-based alternative to retinol extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia (babchi) plant. Bakuchiol stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone — without the irritation, peeling, or sun sensitivity associated with retinol. Safe for sensitive skin and during pregnancy. Clinical studies confirm comparable results to retinol with significantly less irritation.
Found in: Bakuchiol Niacinamide Serum, Botanical Face Oil Revival
Niacinamide
A form of Vitamin B3 that works across multiple skin concerns simultaneously. Niacinamide brightens the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, refines the look of enlarged pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate sebum production. It's one of the most well-tolerated actives in skincare, suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. Research shows significant improvements in skin tone and texture with consistent use.
Found in: Bakuchiol Niacinamide Serum
Hyaluronic Acid
A naturally occurring molecule in the skin that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. As a skincare ingredient, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the environment into the skin, providing immediate hydration, plumping fine lines, and improving overall skin softness and suppleness. It works at multiple skin depths for both surface and deeper hydration. Studies confirm its efficacy as a humectant and skin barrier supporter.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG)
A naturally derived amino sugar that works synergistically with niacinamide to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. NAG inhibits the transfer of melanin to skin cells, helping to fade dark spots and brighten the complexion over time. It also supports skin barrier function and has mild exfoliating properties that improve texture.
At the cellular level, NAG works by inhibiting tyrosinase — the enzyme that triggers melanin production — and disrupting the transfer of melanin pigment to surrounding skin cells. This dual action makes it more targeted than many brightening actives that address only one step in the pigmentation pathway.
When paired with niacinamide, the results are amplified. Niacinamide independently blocks melanin transfer at the skin surface, while NAG suppresses its production upstream. Together, they address hyperpigmentation from two complementary angles — a well-documented combination shown to deliver faster, more visible brightening than either ingredient alone. Bissett et al. (2007) confirmed that the NAG + niacinamide combination significantly reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
NAG is effective at concentrations of 2–4% and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is non-irritating, fragrance-free compatible, and well-tolerated for daily use.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides
Peptides (Pea Protein)
Short chains of amino acids that act as messengers, signaling the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. Our peptides are derived from pea protein, keeping the formula plant-based and clean. With consistent use, peptides help improve skin firmness, reduce the depth of fine lines, and support a more youthful-looking complexion. Clinical evidence supports topical peptides for measurable anti-aging benefits.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides
Olive Squalane
A lightweight, stable form of squalane derived from olives. Squalane is naturally present in human sebum, making it exceptionally biocompatible and well-tolerated by all skin types. It provides deep, non-greasy hydration, improves skin elasticity, and helps lock in moisture without clogging pores. Unlike some heavier oils, it absorbs quickly and leaves no residue. Research confirms squalane's role in skin barrier maintenance and hydration.
Found in: Oleogel Face Serum, Botanical Face Oil Revival
Rosehip Oil
Cold-pressed from the seeds of wild rose bushes, rosehip oil is exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids (linoleic and oleic acid) and natural vitamin A (trans-retinoic acid). It supports skin cell renewal, helps fade hyperpigmentation and scarring, and delivers antioxidant protection against environmental damage. A beloved ingredient in natural anti-aging and brightening formulas. Studies show rosehip oil improves skin moisture, elasticity, and reduces wrinkle depth.
Found in: Tallow Rosehip Balance Moisturizer, Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Sea Buckthorn Oil
One of the most nutrient-dense botanical oils available, sea buckthorn is rich in omega-3, -6, -7, and -9 fatty acids, as well as carotenoids and vitamin E. It helps revitalize dull, tired skin, supports healing, and provides powerful antioxidant protection. Its distinctive orange pigment comes from high beta-carotene content, which supports skin renewal and radiance. Research highlights sea buckthorn's regenerative and antioxidant skin benefits.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Bright Aura
Bisabolol
A naturally occurring compound derived from chamomile, bisabolol is one of the most effective calming ingredients in skincare. It reduces redness, soothes irritation, and helps comfort reactive or sensitive skin. It also has mild skin-brightening properties and enhances the penetration of other active ingredients, making it a valuable addition to any formula targeting sensitive or stressed skin. Studies confirm bisabolol's anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
Found in: Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, pollution, and environmental aggressors. Vitamin E supports skin repair, helps maintain moisture levels, and works synergistically with other antioxidants to amplify their protective effects. It also has mild anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and condition the skin. Research confirms Vitamin E's role in photoprotection and skin barrier support.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Botanical Face Oil Revival
Botanical Oils & Extracts
Amla Oil
Derived from the Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), amla oil is one of the richest plant sources of Vitamin C and antioxidants. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage, supports collagen synthesis, and promotes a brighter, more even complexion. Used for centuries in Ayurvedic skincare for its rejuvenating and nourishing properties.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Bright Aura
Argan Oil
Cold-pressed from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, argan oil is rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids and Vitamin E. It softens and conditions the skin, helps restore moisture balance, and provides antioxidant protection. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it's suitable for all skin types including oily and combination skin.
Found in: Oleogel Face Serum
Apricot Kernel Oil
A lightweight, nourishing oil pressed from apricot seeds, rich in oleic and linoleic acids. It absorbs quickly without heaviness, making it ideal for daily use on the face. Apricot kernel oil softens the skin, supports moisture retention, and is gentle enough for sensitive and mature skin types.
Found in: Apricot Cleansing Oil
Calendula
Extracted from marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis), calendula is one of the most well-studied botanicals for skin soothing. It contains flavonoids and triterpenoids that help calm inflammation, support wound healing, and comfort dry or irritated skin. A cornerstone ingredient in natural skincare for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Found in: Calendula & Lemongrass Tallow Bar Soap
Calendula CO2 Extract
A concentrated supercritical CO2 extraction of calendula that preserves a higher concentration of active compounds than standard infusions. This potent extract delivers amplified anti-inflammatory, skin-calming, and barrier-supporting benefits, making it particularly effective in formulas targeting sensitive, dry, or compromised skin.
Found in: Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Carrot Resin
A concentrated extract from carrot root rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin A precursors, and antioxidants. Carrot resin supports skin cell renewal, helps even out skin tone, and contributes to a healthier, more radiant complexion. Its high carotenoid content makes it particularly effective for dull or sun-damaged skin.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Bright Aura
Cucumber Extract
Derived from Cucumis sativus, cucumber extract is rich in water, silica, and antioxidants. It refreshes and hydrates the skin, helps reduce puffiness and redness, and provides a cooling, soothing sensation. Particularly beneficial for tired, sensitive, or irritated skin.
Found in: Hydrating Mist Kiwi Extract
Jojoba Oil
Technically a liquid wax rather than an oil, jojoba's molecular structure closely mirrors the skin's own sebum. This makes it exceptionally biocompatible — it balances oil production, deeply moisturizes without clogging pores, and helps reduce redness and inflammation. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Apricot Cleansing Oil
Oat Oil
Pressed from whole oat grains, oat oil is rich in beta-glucan and ceramide-like compounds that support the skin barrier and soothe dryness. It helps restore moisture, calm irritation, and improve the overall texture of dry or sensitive skin. A gentle, nourishing ingredient well-tolerated by even the most reactive skin types.
Found in: Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Plum Seed Oil
Cold-pressed from the kernels of plums, this lightweight oil is rich in oleic acid and antioxidants. It absorbs quickly, softens the skin, and helps improve smoothness and suppleness. Its elegant texture makes it ideal for facial formulas where a non-greasy finish is important.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Veil
Pomegranate Oil
Extracted from pomegranate seeds, this oil is uniquely rich in punicic acid — an omega-5 fatty acid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports skin cell renewal, helps improve radiance, and protects against environmental damage. Particularly effective for mature or sun-damaged skin.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Bright Aura
Prickly Pear Oil
One of the most prized and potent botanical oils, prickly pear (cactus) seed oil is exceptionally rich in linoleic acid, Vitamin E, and betalains — rare antioxidants found in few other plants. It deeply nourishes, softens, and brightens the skin while helping to reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines.
Found in: Botanical Eye Contour Oil Halo
Raspberry Seed Oil
Cold-pressed from red raspberry seeds, this oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and natural Vitamin E. It supports moisture retention, softens the skin, and provides antioxidant protection. Its light texture makes it suitable for facial formulas targeting hydration and skin smoothness.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Rose Oil
Steam-distilled from rose petals, rose oil is one of the most precious and complex botanical ingredients in skincare. It soothes and softens the skin, supports moisture balance, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. Its natural fragrance also provides an aromatherapeutic benefit, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Veil
Rose Water / Rose Hydrosol
The aromatic water produced during the steam distillation of rose petals. Rose hydrosol hydrates, refreshes, and helps balance the skin's pH, supporting a healthy skin barrier. It soothes irritation and redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin. A gentle, multi-functional ingredient used as both a toner and a formula base.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Hydrating Mist Kiwi Extract
Safflower Oil
A lightweight, high-linoleic oil that supports the skin barrier and helps maintain moisture levels. Safflower oil is non-comedogenic and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for oily and combination skin types. Its high linoleic acid content helps balance sebum production and calm inflammation.
Found in: Apricot Cleansing Oil
Sandalwood Hydrosol
The aromatic water produced during the distillation of sandalwood. Sandalwood hydrosol has calming, anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and refresh the skin. It's particularly beneficial for sensitive or reactive skin and adds a subtle, grounding woody scent to formulas.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Veil
Sea Kelp Extract
Derived from marine algae, sea kelp extract is rich in minerals, vitamins, and amino acids that support skin hydration and vitality. It helps improve skin texture, supports moisture retention, and provides trace minerals that support healthy skin function. A nourishing ingredient for dull or dehydrated skin.
Found in: Hydrating Mist Kiwi Extract
Tamanu Oil
Pressed from the nuts of the tamanu tree (Calophyllum inophyllum), tamanu oil has been used for centuries in Pacific Island skincare for its remarkable healing properties. It contains unique fatty acids and calophyllolide that support skin regeneration, help calm blemish-prone skin, and reduce the appearance of scars and uneven texture.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Tea Tree Hydrosol
The aromatic water produced during the distillation of tea tree leaves. Gentler than tea tree essential oil, tea tree hydrosol helps refresh and clarify blemish-prone skin without the potential irritation of the concentrated oil. It has mild antimicrobial properties that support clearer-looking skin.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Witch Hazel Distillate
A natural astringent derived from the bark and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana. Witch hazel helps tone and tighten the appearance of pores, reduce excess oil, and refresh oily or combination skin. Our formula uses an alcohol-free distillate to deliver the toning benefits without drying out the skin.
Found in: Hydrating Mist Kiwi Extract
Aloe Vera
One of the most widely studied botanicals in skincare, aloe vera gel contains polysaccharides, vitamins, and enzymes that hydrate, soothe, and support skin healing. It's particularly effective for calming sunburn, irritation, and dryness, and serves as a lightweight, non-greasy base in many of our water-based formulas.
Found in: Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Clays & Detox
French Green Clay
A mineral-rich clay formed from decomposed plant matter and volcanic ash. French green clay has a strong negative ionic charge that attracts and absorbs positively charged impurities, excess oil, and toxins from the skin. It helps purify pores, improve skin texture, and leave the complexion looking clearer and more refined.
Found in: Clarify | Blemish Prone Regimen
Rhassoul Clay
A rare mineral clay sourced from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, used for centuries in North African beauty rituals. Rhassoul clay is rich in silica, magnesium, and potassium, which help cleanse the skin, improve texture, and reduce the appearance of pores. Gentler than many other clays, it's suitable for sensitive skin.
Found in: Clarify | Blemish Prone Regimen
Activated Charcoal
Produced by heating carbon-rich materials to create a highly porous structure with an enormous surface area. Activated charcoal acts like a magnet for impurities, drawing out excess oil, dirt, and buildup from deep within pores. It's one of the most effective natural ingredients for deep cleansing and detoxifying congested skin.
Found in: Clarify | Blemish Prone Regimen
Sea Kelp (Detox)
In detox formulations, sea kelp provides mineral support that helps enhance the skin's natural cleansing processes. Its rich iodine and mineral content supports skin metabolism and helps improve the overall vitality and clarity of the complexion.
Found in: Hydrating Mist Kiwi Extract
Essential Oils
Lavender Oil
Steam-distilled from Lavandula angustifolia flowers, lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile and well-studied botanicals in natural skincare. It has documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe irritated skin, calm redness, and support healing. Its calming scent also provides an aromatherapeutic benefit.
Found in: Lavender Goat's Milk Tallow Bar Soap
Bergamot Oil
Cold-pressed from the rind of bergamot oranges, this citrus essential oil has a fresh, uplifting scent and mild clarifying properties. It helps refresh and brighten the complexion and is used in formulas targeting dull or uneven skin tone. We use bergapten-free bergamot to avoid photosensitivity concerns.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Bright Aura
Clary Sage
Distilled from Salvia sclarea, clary sage essential oil has natural astringent properties that help balance sebum production and reduce excess shine. It's particularly beneficial for oily and combination skin types and has a warm, herbaceous scent that grounds and balances.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Geranium Oil
Steam-distilled from Pelargonium graveolens, geranium essential oil helps balance oil production, tone the skin, and support a refreshed, even complexion. It has mild astringent and anti-inflammatory properties and a floral, rosy scent that complements other botanicals beautifully.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Veil
Patchouli Oil
Distilled from the leaves of Pogostemon cablin, patchouli essential oil has long been used in skincare for its ability to nourish dry, chapped skin and support cell regeneration. It has mild anti-inflammatory properties and a rich, earthy scent that anchors botanical blends.
Found in: Botanical Face Oil Renewal
Tea Tree Oil
Distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, tea tree oil is one of the most well-researched natural antimicrobials in skincare. It helps clarify blemish-prone skin, reduce the appearance of breakouts, and support a clearer complexion. Used at appropriate concentrations, it's an effective and gentle alternative to harsh acne treatments. Studies confirm tea tree oil's efficacy against acne-causing bacteria.
Found in: Clarify | Blemish Prone Regimen
Support Ingredients
Glycerin
A naturally derived humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin and helps maintain hydration throughout the day. Glycerin is one of the most effective and well-tolerated moisturizing ingredients available, suitable for all skin types. It also helps improve the texture and spreadability of formulas.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Grass-Fed Beef Tallow
Rendered from grass-fed beef, tallow has a fatty acid profile — oleic, palmitic, stearic, and linoleic acid — that closely mirrors human skin sebum. This makes it exceptionally biocompatible: the skin recognizes and absorbs it efficiently, supporting the skin barrier, locking in moisture, and nourishing without clogging pores. A traditional ingredient with modern scientific backing. Research on lipids and skin barrier function supports tallow's efficacy.
Found in: Eucalyptus Tallow Bar Soap, Tallow Rosehip Balance Moisturizer, Whipped Tallow Frankincense
Beeswax
A natural wax produced by honeybees, beeswax creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface that seals in moisture and shields against environmental aggressors. It has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and gives balms and creams their structure and texture. A clean, effective alternative to synthetic waxes and petroleum-based occlusives.
Found in: Honey Cream
Arrowroot Powder
A fine, starchy powder derived from the arrowroot plant (Maranta arundinacea). In skincare formulas, arrowroot powder absorbs excess moisture, reduces greasiness, and improves the texture and feel of creams and balms. It gives products a silky, smooth finish without synthetic silicones or talc.
Found in: Whipped Tallow Frankincense
Water
Purified water serves as the base for all water-containing formulas, providing hydration and acting as the solvent that allows other ingredients to dissolve and penetrate the skin effectively. We use purified water in all our water-based formulations to ensure the highest quality and safety.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer
Leucidal Complete
A natural preservation system derived from fermented radish root. Leucidal Complete helps maintain product freshness and safety in water-based formulations without synthetic preservatives like parabens or phenoxyethanol. It's gentle, effective, and aligned with our commitment to clean, natural formulations.
Found in: Botanical Face Cream with Peptides, Chamomile & Aloe Soothing Moisturizer


