FAQ

What is Xēba Botánica?
Xēba Botánica is a small-batch, plant-based skincare brand founded in 2020 in Joshua Tree, California. Every product is developed and made in-house in Pioneertown, and we sell online and through our retail locations in Pioneertown and Echo Park.

Are your products vegan?
Yes. All Xēba Botánica products are plant-based. No animal-derived ingredients, no animal testing.

Ingredients & Formulation

What ingredients do you use?
We work with cold-pressed plant oils, therapeutic-grade essential oils, certified organic botanicals, and plant-based actives like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and caffeine. We do not use petroleum-derived ingredients, synthetic fragrance, synthetic dyes, cheap fillers, parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.

Do your products contain synthetic fragrance?
No. We use only real essential oils or plant extracts for fragrance and therapeutic function. Synthetic fragrance is one of the most common hidden irritants in skincare — we exclude it categorically.

Are your products non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)?
Yes. Most of our formulas are non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. Products we recommend for facial application — the Facial Cleansing Bar, Every Wear Butter, and Every Wear Oil — are specifically designed not to clog pores. Individual product pages indicate suitability by skin type. If you have specific concerns, contact us and we'll help you find the right product.

Do you use essential oils safely?
Yes. Our essential oils are selected at concentrations that are effective for skin function without causing irritation. We use organic therapeutic-grade oils appropriate to each formula's purpose — not just as fragrance additives.

Are your products safe to use during pregnancy?
Some essential oils are not recommended during pregnancy. We encourage anyone who is pregnant or nursing to review individual product ingredient lists and consult with their healthcare provider before use. Contact us if you have specific questions about a formula.

Are your products certified organic?
We're not certified organic yet, but we use organic ingredients throughout our formulas. Certification is a process that takes significant time and resources — and as a small, independent brand, we've chosen to put that energy directly into the quality of what we make. What matters most to us is what's actually in the bottle: clean, non-toxic, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, many of them organic, formulated from scratch in the high desert of Pioneertown, CA. We believe clean should be the standard, not a premium — and we'd rather earn your trust through transparency than a label.

Is your SPF rating lab tested?
Not formally — as a small independent brand, clinical SPF testing is a significant undertaking. Our SPF 32 rating is based on the well-documented sun protection value of non-nano zinc oxide at the concentration we use, backed by extensive cosmetic and dermatological research. We're transparent about that distinction so you can make the right choice for your skin.

What does SPF+ mean?
It means our formula likely performs beyond the SPF 32 baseline. That number reflects our zinc oxide concentration alone — but several other ingredients in the formula also contribute to UV protection. We use SPF+ to acknowledge that real-world performance is probably higher, without overstating a number we haven't clinically tested.

Why non-nano zinc oxide?
Nano-sized zinc oxide goes clear on skin — which is appealing — but those tiny particles can penetrate the skin barrier and potentially enter the bloodstream. Non-nano particles sit on top of the skin where they belong, offering protection without absorption. Yes, it means a bit more white cast. It's a trade-off we're willing to make, and we think once you try it, you will be too.

What concentration of bakuchiol is in your serum?
0.51% — the maximum effective concentration when working with a truly pure bakuchiol extract. You'll see products online claiming 2% or higher, but those figures are almost always based on a pre-diluted ingredient blend that contains emulsifiers and preservatives. We source pure bakuchiol and formulate with it directly, which means our 0.51% delivers what higher-sounding numbers often don't.

What type of hyaluronic acid do you use?
A blend of low and medium molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Medium molecular weight works at the surface, providing immediate plump and smoothing; low molecular weight penetrates deeper to hydrate at a cellular level. Together they cover more ground than a single molecular weight can on its own.

What percentage of hyaluronic acid do you use?
1.084% — a concentration we landed on intentionally. The recommended ceiling is around 2%, but more isn't always better with hyaluronic acid. Too high a concentration can actually draw moisture out of the skin rather than into it — a phenomenon called reverse osmosis — and may cause irritation. Our percentage sits in the sweet spot.

What percentage of niacinamide is in the Restorative Clay Mask?
2% — chosen for its calming efficacy. For reducing redness, soothing irritation, and supporting the skin barrier, 2% is the sweet spot. It works without the risk of sensitivity that can come with more aggressive percentages.

How much vitamin C is in your Nourishing Clay Mask?
We formulate it at 5% — a potent dose that delivers visible results while staying gentle enough for regular use. It brightens skin, fades the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, evens tone, defends against free radical damage, and supports natural collagen production.

Skin Types & Recommendations

Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes — sensitive and acne-prone skin is the standard we formulate against. Our products are developed and tested with those skin types in mind.

I have acne-prone skin. Where do I start?
We recommend starting with the Facial Cleansing Bar, Antioxidant Toning Water, and Hyaluronic Facial Serum. The clay masks (Detoxifying and Restorative) can be rotated as weekly treatments. Avoid heavy occlusive moisturizers if you are prone to closed comedones. Our Every Wear Oil is non-comedogenic and can be used as a lightweight moisturizer.

Do you have products for dry or dehydrated skin?
Yes. The Hyaluronic Facial Serum draws moisture into the skin at multiple levels. The Face Cream SPF 32+ and Every Wear Butter provide lasting topical moisturization. For even deeper moisture, the Restorative Clay Mask with niacinamide also helps strengthen the skin barrier.

Are Xēba Botánica products unisex?
Yes. All formulas are designed to work regardless of gender. We didn't design for a gender — we designed for skin.

Can I use Xēba Botánica products if I'm already using prescription topicals?
If you're using prescription retinoids, antibiotics, or other active treatments, we recommend consulting with your dermatologist before adding new products. Our formulas are gentle and can typically help with irritation caused by prescribed treatments.

How to Use / Routine

What order should I apply Xēba Botánica products?
As a general rule: cleanse → tone → serum → moisturizer → SPF (if using). The Antioxidant Toning Water goes on right after cleansing. The Hyaluronic Serum goes on while the skin is still slightly damp. If layering moisturizer with SPF, your SPF goes on last. Individual product pages include specific instructions.

How often should I use the clay masks?
One to two times per week. The Detoxifying Clay Mask suits oily or congested skin and draws out impurities more aggressively. The Restorative Clay Mask is gentler and more hydrating — suitable for sensitive or dry skin. The Nourishing Clay Mask is brightening and best for hyperpigmentation.

Can I use the Every Wear Oil on my face?
Yes. The Every Wear Oil is designed for the body and face. It absorbs quickly and does not leave an oily residue. It works well as a light moisturizer. You can also add a few drops to hair for shine and manageability, or use it as a moisturizing scalp treatment.

How long until I see results?
We don't promise instant results because genuine skincare doesn't work that way. Most people notice improved hydration and skin feel within one to two weeks of consistent use. Texture and tone improvements from active ingredients typically become visible over four to eight weeks. Consistency is key.

Packaging & Sustainability

Is your packaging really plastic-free?
Yes — and we mean that carefully. Our bottles, jars, lids, and labels are glass, aluminum, paper, or compostable. The only plastic you'll find is in small functional components like pump mechanisms and dropper parts, where fully plastic-free alternatives aren't yet available. We're actively sourcing metal replacements and will continue closing that gap.

Can I recycle my packaging?
Our glass and aluminum packaging is widely recyclable. Rinse and recycle through your local program.

Orders, Shipping & Returns

Where do you ship?
We ship internationally via UPS, USPS, and FedEx — if your country is serviced by any of those carriers, we can ship to you.

What is your return policy?
All sales are final — we don't accept returns or exchanges on skincare and personal care products. That said, if your order never arrived, arrived damaged or defective, or you received the wrong item, we'll make it right with a replacement, store credit, or refund. Contact us within 14 days of delivery with your proof of purchase and photos or video of the issue. Reach us at shop@xebabotanica.com or +1 (760) 288-9500, Option 3.

How long does shipping take?
Orders are processed within 3–6 business days. Once shipped, domestic delivery typically takes 2–10 business days. International orders generally arrive within 2–4 weeks, though customs clearance can sometimes cause delays.

How do I contact you?
Reach us through the contact form on our site or via email at shop@xebabotanica.com. We're a small team, and we respond personally.