Beautycounter review

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 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 these 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 what you'll never find inside their formulas. 

So how can the products measure? Now that I've had the chance to here is another collection 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 from the pores. This would be ideal for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you could apply 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 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 is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm unsure about that, since it's not on the skin for greater than a couple of 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 have to worry about creating 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 full of shea butter, therefore it won't dry your skin. If you're buying a high-quality soap that'll last a long time in your shower, this is a great option!

Conclusion

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

Overall, I think these products are high quality, although the purchase price 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—not to mention the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me go to website here...