Beautycounter review

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

In 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 learned all about her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands. 

While the products 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 sole ones in a position 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 how can the products compare well? 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 will come 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 amount of colour payoff, I enjoy how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is truly pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is really a clay and charcoal face mask that absorbs oil and draws impurities out of the pores. This would be ideal 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 on your own cheeks. It has a steamy 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 really a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm uncertain about that, since it's not on your skin for greater than a couple of seconds, but I appreciate so it doesn't leave my face feeling tight, like other bar soaps do. In the event you're wondering, it lathers clear, not black—which means you don't need to worry about building a mess in your sink!

Beautycounter Citrus Mimosa Body Bar

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

Conclusion

So there you have it—the lowdown on everything I've tried up to now from  Beautycounter ! 

In general, I believe the products are high quality, although the cost 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—not to mention the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...