Many of my friends have been talking about Beautycounter products lately, and at first I ignored the buzz because my tiny bathroom drawer is already full and I was happy with the products I had on hand.
What I keep in that drawer is a mixed bag: some “more natural” items like Tarte tinted moisturizer (which I love) and some less natural products like a Philosophy alpha hydroxy exfoliating liquid/gel combo. Full disclosure: that combo works. But I’ve often wondered what’s hiding in the bright blue gel you apply after the liquid. (Update 7/19/18: the Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel works far better than the neon blue product.)
At heart I’m a hippie who believes skin is an organ and much of what you put on it is absorbed. That’s led me to slowly transition my skincare routine toward cleaner, less toxic options — although I still sometimes make compromises at Sephora when I want immediate results.
I’m human: I want products that actually work. I turned 39 recently and, unlike my grandmother Loretta who seemed wrinkle-free into her eighties, I can’t rely on great genes. So when I heard repeatedly about Beautycounter — a brand that emphasizes safer formulations and publishes a “never list” of ingredients they avoid — I got curious. They score well on the EWG, and their products aim to deliver high performance without the heavy chemical load found in many conventional lines. It felt like a middle ground: effective skincare that’s formulated with safety in mind.
Here’s a summary of the Beautycounter products I tried, what I like about them, and what I don’t. I’ll also share the one product I’ll never buy because it’s so easy and inexpensive to make at home.
My two absolute favorites:
Makeup hack: After months of using Dew Skin and Tint Skin I’ve discovered a great trick: mixing the two provides the best results. For minimal daytime coverage I use mostly Dew Skin with a little Tint Skin mixed in for a natural finish. For evenings or events I favor Tint Skin with a dab of Dew Skin for fuller coverage with a healthy glow.
Update 10/27/17: I’m even more in love with the new Volumizing Mascara.
If you’re unsure which Beautycounter products suit your skin, fill out my skincare survey and I’ll suggest personalized recommendations based on your concerns.
Now, the product I’ll never buy: a luxury sugar scrub. Not because quality versions don’t exist, but because it’s ridiculously easy and inexpensive to make at home. Why pay $20–$50 for something you can create for a few dollars?
Super-Luxe Sugar Scrub
Ingredients:
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons salt (kosher or sea)
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
5–10 drops essential oil (optional)
Lavender and/or rose petals (optional)
- Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until blended.
- Store in glass jars for a clean presentation and to avoid BPA; take care if children are around and you’re using glass in the bathroom.
- To use: Scoop a small amount and massage into hands, feet, or body, then rinse with warm water. Be cautious on wet surfaces to avoid slipping.
Important note on essential oils: they are highly concentrated and have risks when applied directly to skin, when used during pregnancy, or because some can cause photosensitivity. I use only a few drops and choose oils known for gentler profiles, such as lavender, rose, jasmine, or sandalwood.
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