You’ve definitely heard about “clean” skincare products. They have been hitting the market hard for the past few years and only gaining momentum. When you think about it, it makes a lot of sense to put some thought into what you’re putting on your skin. After all, we pay meticulous attention to what we put inside our bodies. Why not pay more attention to what we put on the outside? Our skin is our largest organ, after all. Harmful chemicals can act in the same way that junk food acts. And let’s be clear, we still dabble in some junk. Cheetos, Twizzlers or an indulgent dessert? Yes please. They taste too good to cut out forever. You can’t be perfect all the time.
Gretchen has led the charge in convincing us to “just try” cleaner beauty products. Six years ago she went on a search for skincare and makeup that would work on her highly reactive and sensitive skin. She was determined to find something that was not only effective, but would work easily into her daily routine. After much research she stumbled upon Beautycounter. At this point, Beautycounter had only been on the scene for a few months. Not only did she try the products and really like them, it was hard not to be intrigued by the brand and their commitment to safe beauty.
Beautycounter’s mission is to create a future where all beauty is clean beauty. Working to get safer products into the hands of everyone is at the forefront of everything they do. One way they accomplish this is the company’s dauntless “never list.” In the European Union, there are over 1,400 chemicals that are restricted or banned in personal care products. In Canada, 600 chemicals thought to have harmful effects are banned. In the U.S.? 30. You read that right. A mere 30. But Beautycounter refuses to accept that. They’ve stepped away from the U.S. Government’s recommended banned products and created an entirely new set of rules. There are over 1,500 questionable or harmful chemicals (1,400 from the European Union plus additional ones they thought to be harmful) on their “never list.” This means that 1,500 chemicals and ingredients are off the table before they even begin to formulate a product. Crazy, right?
Curious about the products you currently use and if they contain potentially harmful ingredients? Look them up on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG’s) Skin Deep database.
“ONE BY ONE, WE ARE LEADING A MOVEMENT TO A FUTURE WHERE ALL BEAUTY IS CLEAN BEAUTY”
Flash forward to Just Try It. We have all added a bit of the BC goodness into our routines and we’re now loving the products, too. Below are our favorites. These have been on repeat in our skin-care routines for several months and in some cases, years! Click on the pictures to shop.
LATEST FAVORITES
*EDITED AND ADDED OUR LATEST FAVORITES BELOW JUNE 2020.
WOMEN
Counter+ All Bright C Serum: Allison and Lindsey have tried many Vitamin C serums and this one is by far the best they’ve used. Not only do they love the smell (think citrus and turmeric) but one pump goes a long way and it absorbs quickly. They could tell a difference after a few weeks….skin seemed brighter and more even. Plus, Allison noticed her dark spots (aka melasma) fading.
Counterstart Cococream Cleanser: This is a newer product for Beautycounter and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a gentle, daily cleanser. This cream cleanser is great for anyone with sensitive skin.
Velvet Eyeshadow Palette in Romantic: Gretchen uses this eyeshadow palette for both her day and nighttime looks. These eyeshadows are easy to layer and are great for sensitive skin.
Lip Gloss in Bare Shimmer: Allison and Gretchen both love this gloss and specifically this color. It’s a subtle pink with a hint of shimmering gold. Gretchen also uses this gloss as a highlighter on her cheekbones…..two for one!
Here’s the breakdown:
GRETCHEN
Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm: This is a total “work horse.” You can use it as a cleanser, overnight moisture mask (yes I put it on at night and sleep in it!), on your cuticles, lips and even your kiddos if they are dry as it is extremely moisturizing. I have very dry skin so I am never without this product!
Nourishing Cream Cleanser: This is like a “clean” version of the Cetaphil that a lot of grew up using. It is creamy, nourishing and great for reactive or sensitive skin like mine. It’s my go-to cleanser every day and has been since the beginning.
LAURA
Charcoal Cleansing Bar: I am a person that really likes that “squeaky clean” feeling on my skin. The charcoal bar foams up (which I love) and when you wash it off, you really do feel squeaky clean but not dry, which is an accomplishment in my book.
Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum: For me, this is a clean version of a retinol and it’s AMAZING. Totally worth the $$. They call it a “retinatural” because the active ingredients are plant based, which means you can wear it during the day as there is no sun sensitivity! When I first got it, I put it on after cleansing morning and night for two weeks and noticed a significant difference in my skin. Smaller pores, smoother complexion and less fine lines. I would definitely recommend sticking with it for two weeks and seeing if you notice a difference.
ALLISON
Countertime Eye Cream: This cream is thick, incredibly moisturizing and absorbs really well. I like to use it at night as it does a great job at hydrating the eye area , which of course helps to diminish the look of fine lines. It’s one of the best eye creams I’ve used!
Overnight Resurfacing Peel: I use this 2 or 3 times a week. It’s light but really effective. When I wake up after using it my skin feels totally hydrated, smoother and exfoliated.
MEN
If your guy is like any of our guys, they are probably not thinking about the safety of their skincare products. ; ) Above are the products we have put in their hands and they have used and, much to our happiness, liked! The Counterman Carry On Kit is a great “starter” for him to try out some of the Counterman line. It includes a Charcoal Body Wash, Purifying Shampoo and the Daily Exfoliating Cleanser and face lotion we’ve linked above. If you’d prefer a more “a la carte” option, you can’t go wrong with the Daily Exfoliating Cleanser, Toner Pads and Oil Free Face Lotion linked above!
TEENS
We often get asked if we use Beautycounter for our children and then answer is a definite YES! The Cococream cleanser and moisturizer are the perfect match for kiddos who are just beginning their skincare routine. It’s gentle, yet effective. Going through puberty and starting to show acne? The Clear Pore Cleanser is your best bet. For the child who can’t handle the idea of washing their face, just put one of the Makeup Remover wipes in their hands and it’s as easy as that!
P.S. You most likely have a friend or acquaintance in your IG scroll that is a Beautycounter rep. We encourage you to support them! This post is all about sharing the concept of clean beauty and a line we authentically believe in. If you don’t have a point of contact, Gretchen is a rep and happy to help you or answer any questions you might have.