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. 

In the spring, I interviewed founder Gregg Renfrew for the brand's launch in Canada (they've experienced the US since 2013), and learned all about her goal of getting cleaner cosmetics in more people's hands. 

While the merchandise 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 only real 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 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!

Beautycounter Lip Gloss

The Lip Gloss is non-sticky, super-shiny and extremely moisturizing. It comes in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a pink, 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 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 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 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 a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm not sure about this, since it's not on your skin layer for higher than a few seconds, but I appreciate so 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 bother about making 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, so that it won't dry out your skin. If you're buying a high-quality soap that'll last quite a while 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 ! 

All in all, I think the merchandise 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 www.mlmreviewed.com.

However, if you're like me and concerned with harmful ingredients, the safety profile makes them worth it—and of course the gorgeous textures and packaging. Tell me...