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

While these products aren't necessarily natural, they are 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 only 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 how do the products compare well? 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 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 really pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is really a clay and charcoal face mask 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 own cheeks. It has a creamy 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's claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm uncertain about this, since it's not on your skin layer for more than a few seconds, but I appreciate that 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 have to concern yourself with creating 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 that it won't dry your skin. If you're looking for a high-quality soap which will last quite a while in your shower detail, this is a great option!

Conclusion

So there you have it—the lowdown on everything I've tried so far from  Beautycounter ! 

All in all, I do believe these products are great 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 with harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—not forgetting the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...