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 discovered her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands.
While the 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 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 in their formulas.
So just how do the products measure up? 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 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 huge amount 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 really 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 might apply it to your T-zone and put a different mask on your cheeks. It has a steamy texture and you're supposed 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 really a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm unsure about that, since it's not on the skin for higher 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 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 your skin. If you're buying high-quality soap which will last quite a long time in your shower, this is a great option!
Conclusion
So there you've it—the lowdown on everything I've tried up to now from Beautycounter read full review here!
All in all, I do 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, for instance, and the skincare from $30 to $55.
However, if you're like me and worried about harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—and of course the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...
