Boss Files: Hillary Peterson | All Sorts Of

Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are now.

My story starts with my cancer diagnosis in my early 30s and my subsequent search for clean products. I found that the products I tried did not offer the efficacy or the sensorial experience that I was looking for. This is ultimately what set me on a mission to prove that products that prioritize the health of people and the planet can also be the most effective.

Guided by the world’s leading anti-aging scientists, green chemists, and sustainability experts, I created a line that delivers clinically proven results utilizing ingredients that are undeniably safe.

What differentiated True Botanicals from the start was my desire to create products that were so effective and so luxurious that even those who were not particularly interested in clean beauty would love the brand and products.

You’ve spoken openly about your cancer diagnosis. How did that experience transform your views on wellness and the beauty industry?

I think that the power of that experience is the way that it shifted my perspective forever. At a relatively young age, I developed an understanding of vulnerability that I have carried with me since. After waking up from surgery and hearing the cancer word, my commitment to my wellbeing deepened in a profound way. I have been incredibly lucky to spend the past 10 years building a brand that is an expression of my care for not only my own well being, but also the wellbeing of people and the planet.

The clean beauty movement is constantly evolving. How do you stay ahead of the curve while staying true to your roots?

From inception, True Botanicals has stood out amongst our competition through innovation. We create transformative products that consistently outperform leading brands in independent clinical trials. What are some of those innovations, you ask?!

Facial oil as moisturizer – We were one of the first to explore this concept and when we compared our results to those of leading brands, people took notice! It’s the results that have most influenced people to take a leap of faith, ultimately shifting their perspective on how face oil can change the game.

Chebula as an active ingredient – We pioneered this breakthrough, introducing the power of cascading antioxidants to skincare. Cascading antioxidants last significantly longer on the skin, which leads to exceptional and long-lasting results. Consumers also continue to rave about their experiences with the products.

Peptilium as an active ingredient – We were the first to bring this amazing ingredient to the skincare market. It’s twice and strong and works twice as fast than synthetic retinols. Plus, it’s way less irritating to the skin.

Unwavering commitment to product safety and environmental health – Certified by MADE SAFE® and aligned with the Environmental Working Group, True Botanicals is a leading force in the clean skincare industry. We’ve proven that you can set new standards in luxury while prioritizing the health of people and the planet at every turn.

True Botanicals is certified by MADE SAFE® and aligned with the Environmental Working Group — two organizations dedicated to product safety and environmental health. Why are these affiliations important to you and how do they influence the ethos of the brand?

Nearly one out of three beauty products on the market are labelled “clean” in the U.S. Although, this has become a subjective standard. It’s a generalized term up for interpretation – causing a lack of accountability for brands and an increase in confusion for consumers.

MADE SAFE® and the EWG are backed by leading scientists who care deeply about health and the future of our planet. That is meaningful, and I am proud that our products are certified by organizations whose only job is to have our back regarding product safety and sustainability. We have taken it a step further and worked with MADE SAFE® to certify which of our products are pregnancy safe. There are certain natural ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy and so much confusion around what is safe and what isn’t. We feel great about making shopping for skincare easy during such a pivotal time in someone’s life.

What does leadership mean to you, and what advice would you offer other women entrepreneurs carving their own path?

The best leaders hire talented people who connect with and understand the mission of the brand, and then give them adequate direction and space to do their best work. I have an incredible CEO, Sandy Saputo, leading the charge at True Botanicals. We regularly check in on key directional shifts, while I make sure she has the freedom to lead the incredible team she’s built in whatever way works best for them.

Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.

I am the founder and board chair of True Botanicals. In both of these roles, I serve as a north star for the business — Keeping the passion for setting a new standard in luxury and prioritizing the health of people and the planet at the center of all operations. My typical day involves interviews, product development, sustainability discussions, photoshoots, conferences, speaking on panels, and beyond! I am committed to spending my time however it’s needed in order to best support the growth and evolution of a brand that means so much to me and the team.

How do you seek to incorporate balance in your life?

Ahhhh…..balance! It is such a worthwhile goal and I have been doing a lot better since Sandy came on board. My weeks are still busy, but I am determined to take good care of myself. I work hard to get outside every day — for a walk or a bike ride. I have recently gotten back into meditation and it has been so lovely. Amidst it all, I am committed to being as present as possible throughout the day, whether that’s on my walk to work, shopping at the farmers market, or cooking dinner at home. I find it all much more relaxing and enjoyable when I can immerse myself in it and be present for whatever I am doing.

What skincare tips or rituals do you swear by — especially for those with busy schedules or stressed skin?

No matter the reason, stressed or aging skin is experiencing oxidative strain and the most effective support is nourishing the skin with the most potent antioxidants, antinflammatories, and essential fatty acids that nature has to offer! My three must-have products are True Botanicals’ Chebula Active Serum, Renew Pure Radiance Oil, and Phyto-Retinol Advanced Clinical Cream. It is literally impossible to do this routine and not have people notice a glow and increased skin vitality. And for those who want to keep it super simple, I recommend Chebula Active Serum and Renew Pure Radiance Oil to start!

Looking ahead, what’s next for you and for True Botanicals? What impact are you most proud of, and where do you hope to grow?

We’re continuing to innovate and seek out the most potent, natural ingredients in the industry. Nature has been evolving for millennia and we are continuously learning more about the incredible healing power that nature holds. For instance, many of the elements that support plants as they thrive through harsh conditions can be equally supportive of our skin’s vitality. We’re proud to show through clinical trials — and the passion of our devoted community — that nature’s healing power is truly unmatched. When it comes to growth, we’re excited to build on our success with DTC and expand our retail partnerships to keep growing our community of supporters.

Favorite way to relax and unwind?

Watching the sunset on our porch while listening to the birds sing.

Your coffee or tea order?

I love an Americano with a splash of half and half!

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

My parents told me that I should seek a profession that I was passionate about and that success would follow. There were days along the way where I certainly wondered, but I am so proud of what we have built.