Beautycounter review

Even before I tried anything from Beautycounter—the California-based personal care brand specializing in 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 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 free of 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 ingredients that you'll never find within their formulas. 

So how do the products measure up? 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 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 really pretty.

Beautycounter Purifying Charcoal Mask

The Purifying Charcoal Mask is a clay and charcoal breathing apparatus that absorbs oil and draws impurities from the pores. This could be great for oily or congested skin—or, if you're into multi-masking, you may use it to your T-zone and put an alternative mask on your own cheeks. It has a steamy texture and you're supposed 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 unsure about this, since it's not on your skin layer for higher than a couple of seconds, but I appreciate that it doesn't leave my face feeling tight, like other bar soaps do. In the event you're wondering, it lathers clear, not black—which means you don't need to bother 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 simple, refreshing scent. It's also sulfate-free and full of shea butter, therefore it won't dry out your skin. If you're buying a high-quality soap that will 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 is beautycounter a pyramid scheme! 

All in all, I do believe the products are great quality, although the price points are high (on par with luxury cosmetics). The makeup I reviewed here ranges from $36 to $51 Canadian, for instance, 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...