Beautycounter review

Even before I tried anything from Beautycounter—the California-based personal care brand specializing in safe, non-toxic products—I was already impressed. 

Back in the spring, I interviewed founder Gregg Renfrew for the brand's launch in Canada (they've experienced 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 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 able 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 can the products measure up? Now that I've had the opportunity 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 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 enjoy how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is really pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is just a clay and charcoal face mask that absorbs oil and draws impurities from the pores. This will be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you can apply it to your T-zone and put an alternative mask in your cheeks. It has a steamy texture and you're meant 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 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 few 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—so you don't have to be worried about making a mess in your sink go now!

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 high in shea butter, therefore it won't dry your skin. If you're looking for a high-quality soap that will 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 so far from  Beautycounter ! 

Overall, 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, like, 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 forgetting the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...