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 held it's place in 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're 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 what you'll never find within their formulas. 

So how can the products compare well? Now that I've had the chance to try a 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 is available in seven shades; I tried three: Peony, a red, Dahlia, a mauve with pink undertones, and Buff, a nude. Although there's not a large amount of colour payoff, I enjoy how these feel on the lips, and the high-shine texture is actually pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is really a clay and charcoal face mask that absorbs oil and draws impurities from the pores. This would be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you may apply it to your T-zone and put a different mask on your own cheeks. It has a creamy texture and you're supposed to leave it on 10 minutes; by that time, it's dry, but easily comes off with water. 

Beautycounter Charcoal Cleansing Bar

The Charcoal Cleansing Bar is really a non-drying, sulfate-free soap that is claimed to absorb impurities (thanks to the charcoal powder). I'm uncertain about that, since it's not on the skin for more 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—so you don't have to worry 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 delicate, refreshing scent. It's also sulfate-free and saturated in shea butter, therefore it won't dry up your skin. If you're buying a high-quality soap that'll last quite a while in your shower, this is a good option!

Conclusion

So there you've it—the lowdown on everything I've tried so far from  Beautycounter https://www.mlmreviewed.com/beautycounter-mlm! 

In general, I think 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, as an example, and the skincare from $30 to $55.

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