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 the spring, I interviewed founder Gregg Renfrew for the brand's launch in Canada (they've held it's place in the US since 2013), and discovered her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands. 

While these products aren't necessarily natural, they are without any 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 real ones in a position to decipher the label on a cosmetics bottle"). There's also a "Never List" of the no-no what you'll never find inside their formulas. 

So how can the products measure up? Now that I've had the chance to try a 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 is available in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a pink, Dahlia, a mauve with pink undertones, and Buff, a nude. Although there's not a large amount of colour payoff, I love how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is really pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is just a clay and charcoal face mask that absorbs oil and draws impurities from the pores. This would be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you might apply it to your T-zone and put a different mask in your cheeks. It has a creamy texture and you're supposed to leave it on 10 minutes; by that time, 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's claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm not sure about that, since it's not on your skin for more than a few seconds, but I appreciate that it doesn't leave my face feeling tight, like other bar soaps do. In the event you're wondering, it lathers clear code, not black—which means you don't need certainly to be concerned about making a mess in your sink!

Beautycounter Citrus Mimosa Body Bar

The Citrus Mimosa Body Bar is a finely milled bar soap with a subtle, refreshing scent. It's also sulfate-free and full of shea butter, therefore it won't dry your skin. If you're looking for 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 think these products are high quality, although the purchase 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 about harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—and of course the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...