Ask the Expert: Care Clark on Holistic Substitutions for Aesthetic Treatments

Meet Care Clark, @careclarkbsn — licensed aesthetic nurse, holistic beauty advocate, and a glowing example of what it means to blend science with intuition. After overcoming her own skin challenges, Care found her calling in a more intentional approach to beauty, one that honors both cutting-edge treatments and ancient healing practices. In this conversation, she shares her honest take on Botox, her favorite natural alternatives (hint: gua sha fans, you’re in for a treat), and the inner guidance that continues to shape her path. Get ready for thoughtful insights, actionable skincare tips, and a refreshing perspective on modern aesthetics.

Q: Can you share a bit about your background? What inspired you to study both medical aesthetics and holistic beauty?

I’ve always been passionate about skin and wellness, largely because I’ve experienced my own struggles firsthand. Growing up, I dealt with persistent hormonal acne, and later on, I faced hair loss — both of which took a toll on my confidence and pushed me to search for real, lasting solutions.

At 22, I got my dream job: I finished nursing school & became a licensed aesthetic nurse. Suddenly, I had access to all the cutting-edge injectable treatments and medical-grade products I had always heard about — and I could have used them on myself for free if I wanted to. But something deep inside told me to pause. To wait. I’m so glad I listened to that instinct. It led me down a more intentional path — one where I could explore both sides of medical aesthetics and holistic beauty, and ultimately help others heal their skin from the inside out.

I’ve found that combining my two passions: science-backed beauty AND holistic beauty has given me the best results! 

Q: What do you think people should consider before getting Botox to ensure the best and safest results?

Before jumping into Botox, I always tell people: get your skincare in check first. You need to be using a good retinol or another collagen-boosting serum. If your skin isn’t being supported from the inside out, Botox isn’t going to give you the long-term results you’re probably hoping for.

It’s also so important to do your research and find a skilled, honest injector — someone who won’t just tell you what you want to hear, but who will be real with you about what you actually need (or don’t need). A good injector should make you feel informed and empowered, not pressured.

And finally, know the risks and consider the commitment. Botox is expensive, and once you start, it’s easy to feel like you have to keep going to maintain the look. That’s why I always recommend exploring other preventative approaches first — especially if you’re still young. Strengthen your skincare routine, support your skin health from within, and wait as long as possible before starting injectable

Q: We talk a lot about gua sha, facial posture, sleep, and natural skincare as natural alternatives to Botox. What are some of your favorite alternatives to botox?

Yes! Here are a few of my personal favorites: 

-My Wilding Gua sha. 

-These are my core skincare staples: Retinol, Peptides, & Sunscreen. The first two will stimulate collagen and reduce the appearance of fine lines, and the third will protect your skin from UV damage.

-Facial tape (specifically: Frownies.) These train my facial muscles to relax—especially around the forehead and between the brows while I sleep. 

-Red light therapy.

-My Sleep & Glow Pillow (to help prevent sleep lines and support proper facial posture overnight.)

Q: Some people start Botox preventatively in their 20s and 30s. What are your thoughts on this trend?

My opinion on preventative Botox might be a little controversial—especially because so many medical professionals recommend it. And I understand why! When done correctly, preventative Botox can stop fine lines from forming in the first place. I’ve seen it work. But there’s a bigger picture people often miss.

When I worked in a clinic, I started to notice a pattern with younger clients coming in for Botox. A few things stood out to me:

Once they started, they couldn’t stop. Botox can be amazing, but it’s also expensive—and it adds up quickly. You’re looking at hundreds of dollars every 3-4 months.

It didn’t always last. Some people metabolize Botox faster than others, which means the effects wear off more quickly than expected. That can be frustrating and even more costly.

It worked—but sometimes at a cost. Yes, Botox was preventing wrinkles, but many clients weren’t supporting their skin in other ways. They weren’t using sunscreen consistently, weren’t applying active ingredients like retinol or peptides, and in some cases, I even noticed early signs of muscle atrophy from overuse. Their skin might have been smooth, but it lacked that healthy, youthful glow—and sometimes, it even looked older because it wasn’t well cared for overall.

Q: What are your fav supplements or foods for your skin?

Ahh, so many!! I truly believe in “eating to glow.” 

-I put a big emphasis on drinking my minerals, like: tea infusions, dandelion root tea, adrenal cocktails (OJ, coconut water, aloe vera juice.)

-Green juices. 

-Green tea/matcha. (Rookie Wellness’ Pomegranate Apple Green tea is divine!)

-Raw carrot salad. (This is me “eating my retinol” lol!)

-Beef liver supplements 

-Fermented foods like cocoyo, and colostrum. 

-Bone broth. (I drink it plain, or drink my hot chocolate bone broth at night!) 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Listen to your intuition.

The aesthetic industry is always evolving. Not long ago, we found out that certain fillers can actually stay in the body for up to 10 years—which really surprised a lot of people. And honestly, I wouldn’t be shocked if more discoveries like that come to light in the future.

That’s why I believe it’s so important to approach beauty from a place of self-care and self-love, rather than urgency or pressure. Take your time. Do your research. And don’t be afraid to pause before making decisions—especially the ones that could be long-lasting or permanent. Your beauty journey should feel aligned, empowering, and yours. You don’t need to be like everyone else. Your beauty is uniquely YOU!

Xo, Care