Beautycounter review

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 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're 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 things that you'll never find in their formulas. 

So just how do the products measure? Now that I've had the chance to try a choice 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 white, Dahlia, a mauve with pink undertones, and Buff, a nude. Although there's not a large amount of colour payoff, I really like how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is truly 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 might be ideal for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you can use 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 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's claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm not sure 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. In case you're wondering, it lathers clear, not black—so you don't need to concern yourself with making 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, therefore it won't dry up your skin. If you're buying high-quality soap that'll last a long time in your shower, this is a great option!

Conclusion

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

In general, I do believe these products are high quality, although the 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 concerned about harmful ingredients the ugly truth about beautycounter, the safety profile makes them worth it—as well as the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...

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