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 discovered her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands.
While the merchandise 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 sole ones able to decipher the label on a cosmetics bottle"). There's also a "Never List" of the no-no things that you'll never find inside their formulas.
So just how can the products compare well? Now that I've had the chance to here is another choice of their makeup and skincare, my full report is below compensation plan!
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 amount of colour payoff, I like how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is truly pretty.
Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask
The Purifying Charcoal Mask is a clay and charcoal face mask that absorbs oil and draws impurities out from the pores. This might be ideal for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you could use it to your T-zone and put a different mask in your cheeks. It has a steamy texture and you're made 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 a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that's claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm unsure about that, since it's not on your skin layer for higher than a handful 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—therefore you don't need certainly 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 saturated in shea butter, such that it won't dry your skin. If you're buying high-quality soap that'll last quite a whilst in your shower, this is a good option!
Conclusion
So there you've it—the lowdown on everything I've tried currently from Beautycounter !
All in all, I really do believe the merchandise are great quality, although the cost points are high (on par with luxury cosmetics). The makeup I reviewed here ranges from $36 to $51 Canadian, for example, and the skincare from $30 to $55.
However, if you're like me and focused on harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—and obviously the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...
