Beautycounter review

Even before I tried anything from Beautycounter—the California-based personal care brand devoted to safe, non-toxic products—I had been impressed. 

Back in the spring, I interviewed founder Gregg Renfrew for the brand's launch in Canada (they've been in the US since 2013), and learned all about her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands. 

While the merchandise aren't necessarily natural, they are free of harmful chemicals, and boast chic packaging that wouldn't look out of place at any high-end department store. I also appreciate Beautycounter's transparency on ingredients. Their Ingredients Glossary explains what's in each product, and why (because "scientists shouldn't be the only ones able to decipher the label on a cosmetics bottle"). There's also a "Never List" of the no-no things that you'll never find inside their formulas. 

So just how do the products measure up? Now that I've had the opportunity to here is another choice of their makeup and skincare, my full report is below!

Beautycounter Lip Gloss

The Lip Gloss is non-sticky, super-shiny and extremely moisturizing. It comes in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a red, Dahlia, a mauve with pink undertones, and Buff, a nude. Although there's not a large number of colour payoff, I really like how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is actually pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is just a clay and charcoal breathing apparatus that absorbs oil and draws impurities out from the pores. This would be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you can apply it to your T-zone and put a different mask on your own cheeks. It has a creamy texture and you're supposed to leave it on 10 minutes; by the period, it's dry, but easily comes off with water. 

Beautycounter Charcoal Cleansing Bar

The Charcoal Cleansing Bar is just a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm unsure about this, since it's not on your skin layer for more than a few seconds, but I appreciate that it doesn't leave my face feeling tight, like other bar soaps do. Just in case you're wondering, it lathers clear, not black—which means you don't need certainly to be concerned about creating a mess in your sink go url!

Beautycounter Citrus Mimosa Body Bar

The Citrus Mimosa Body Bar is a finely milled bar soap with a delicate, refreshing scent. It's also sulfate-free and high in shea butter, so it won't dry up your skin. If you're buying a high-quality soap that will last quite a long time in your shower, this is a superb option!

Conclusion

So there you've it—the lowdown on everything I've tried so far from  Beautycounter ! 

Overall, I do believe the merchandise are high quality, although the price points are high (on par with luxury cosmetics). The makeup I reviewed here ranges from $36 to $51 Canadian, as an example, and the skincare from $30 to $55.

However, if you're like me and concerned with harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—not forgetting the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...