Beautycounter review

Even before I tried anything from Beautycounter—the California-based personal care brand focusing on 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 been in the US since 2013), and learned all about her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands. 

While the products aren't necessarily natural, they are without any 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 in their formulas. 

So how do the products measure? Now that I've had the chance 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 comes in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a white, Dahlia, a mauve with pink undertones, and Buff, a nude. Although there's not a large number 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 a clay and charcoal breathing apparatus that absorbs oil and draws impurities out from the pores. This could be perfect for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you could apply it to your T-zone and put a different mask on your cheeks. It has a creamy texture and you're designed 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 a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that's claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm not sure about this, since it's not on the skin for more 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—so you don't have to be worried about building 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, so that it won't dry up your skin. If you're looking for a high-quality soap that will last quite a long time in your shower, this is a good option https://www.mlmreviewed.com/beautycounter-mlm!

Conclusion

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

In general, I think 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, as an example, 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...