Even before I tried anything from Beautycounter—the California-based personal care brand devoted to safe, non-toxic products—I was already impressed.
Back 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 these products aren't necessarily natural, they're 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 real ones in a position to decipher the label on a cosmetics bottle"). There's also a "Never List" of the no-no ingredients that you'll never find within their formulas.
So just how do the products measure? Now that I've had the opportunity to try a selection 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 huge amount of colour payoff, I love 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 of the pores. This will be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you may use it to your T-zone and put an alternative mask in your cheeks. It has a creamy texture and you're meant to leave it on 10 minutes; by that point, 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 uncertain about this, since it's not on your skin layer for higher than a couple of seconds, but I appreciate that it doesn't leave my face feeling tight, like other bar soaps do. In case you're wondering https://www.mlmreviewed.com/beautycounter-mlm, it lathers clear, not black—which means you don't have to bother 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 high in shea butter, therefore it won't dry up your skin. If you're looking for a high-quality soap which will last quite a while in your shower, this is a superb option!
Conclusion
So there you have it—the lowdown on everything I've tried up to now from Beautycounter !
All in all, I think these products are great quality, although the cost points are high (on par with luxury cosmetics). The makeup I reviewed here ranges from $36 to $51 Canadian, like, 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—and of course the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...
