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 experienced the US since 2013), and discovered her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands.
While the products aren't necessarily natural, they're free from 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 able 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 just how do the products measure? Now that I've had the opportunity to here is another 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 comes in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a green, 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 truly pretty.
Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask
The Purifying Charcoal Mask is a clay and charcoal breathing apparatus that absorbs oil and draws impurities out from 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 on your cheeks. It has a steamy 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 a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that's 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 case you're wondering, it lathers clear, not black—so you don't need to concern yourself with making a mess in your sink!
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 full of shea butter, therefore it won't dry your skin. If you're looking for a high-quality soap that may last quite a long time in your shower, this is a good option read full review here!
Conclusion
So there you've it—the lowdown on everything I've tried to date from Beautycounter !
All in all, I do believe the products 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, like, 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...
