We caught up with founder Francesco Clark, whose celebrity-approved skincare brand Clark's Botanicals recently launched in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan
Following a life-changing diving accident that left him paralysed from the neck down at just 24 years old, Francesco Clark not only survived, but thrived in his adversity.
Claiming "vanity saved my life", Clark began developing his plant-based skincare products to remedy the complications his skin was experiencing as a result of the accident––his spinal cord injury prevented his skin from sweating and reacting to temperature, which ultimately transformed how his skin looked and felt.
To his own surprise, it worked, and Clarks Botanicals was born. "I never intended to start a skin-care line," Clark said in an interview with Allure, "but it became my tool to help me live a full, meaningful life again."
Today, Clarks Botanicals has famous fans including Julianne Moore and Olivia Munn. The clean skincare brand is also going global, having recently been made available in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan for the first time.
We speak with Clark about his plans for expanding in Asia, his top three summer skincare tips and why self-love is essential during difficult times.
See also: Beauty Botanica, A New Beauty And Wellness Destination, Opens In Landmark Hong Kong
Congratulations on launching in Hong Kong, China and Taiwan! What are your hopes for Clark’s Botanicals in the Asia region?
Launching in Hong Kong, China and Taiwan is a huge opportunity for an independent brand like Clark’s Botanicals. Asia is one of the fastest growing markets in the beauty and skincare industry.
We appreciate the attention consumers pay to skincare routines in these regions and their commitment to healthy skin. Our vision is to be the most trusted clean skincare brand in the world.
Leading up to your launch, are there any unique skincare issues or product preferences you’ve noticed in the region?
I’ve noticed a trend in rapid skin hydration, and our Deep Moisture Mask quickly became our hero product in the region. It is a wonderful surprise to see how the Asian customer is so knowledgeable about ingredients.
We’ve also noticed that although clean beauty is growing quickly in the region, customers will not compromise on results, which aligns with our products and the ingredients we use. We also share the belief that beauty routines should be quick and simple, which is why most of our products are multi-tasking (such as our Jasmine Vital Oil, which is a serum and moisturizer in one).
It is notoriously humid in these parts. What Clark’s Botanical products would you recommend for this climate?
I would recommend starting with Dual Charcoal Detox, our cleanser, exfoliant, and mask. It absorbs impurities while whisking away dead skin cells, which is exactly what pores need in humidity.
Next, Jasmine Vital Healing Cream, our lightweight gel-cream, will soothe stressed-out skin without clogging pores. Last, Jasmine Vital Oil will imbue a healthy, dewy glow when humid skin starts to shine. Keep a bottle in your bag for an instant refresh throughout the day.