What happened when I swapped my favorite chemical-laden, environmentally unfriendly makeup for Clove + Hallow’s clean and ethical products.

As someone who has always loved makeup, I had amassed quite a collection of traditional products, the Urban Decays, tartes, and Benefits of the beauty world. By many accounts, these were the “must-have” brands, and I thought you needed their chemicals for long-lasting, high-quality results.

My perspective shifted when I found Shimmer. I had become a frequent flyer pretty soon after it opened, and I always found a new product to test when I popped in. I kept gravitating to one line in particular: Clove + Hallow.

Before I knew it, I had bought – and loved – items from across C+H’s brand. These natural products not only stood up to my old stand-bys, but surpassed them. Turns out you CAN get high performance without the toxins or guilt.

Here’s a look at some of my favorites and why they’re worth checking out – even for those who don’t think clean can compete!

Lip Glaze

If I was going to go natural, it made sense to start with a lip product. Whether we realize it or not, we’re ingesting what we put on our lips. Yikes. I first picked up C+H’s Lip Glaze and WOW. I rocked the shade “Prep” all summer, then moved into the fall with “Spicy.” Not sticky or slippery, it has heavy pigmentation and great staying power. My purse isn’t complete without it.

Lip Velvet

After loving the Lip Glaze, I tried a bold Lip Velvet in “Napa” on a whim. It was brighter than I would normally wear, but it totally flattered my skin tone. I couldn’t leave Shimmer without it. Not that I needed it for a touch-up - my impromptu trial lasted THE WHOLE DAY. Once it set, it stayed put, but wasn’t dry or flakey. At a recent dinner party, I received more than one compliment. Thank you, Lip Velvet.

Hydratint

This was a STAPLE in my regimen this summer. I crave lighter, luminous products when the heat hits, and C+H’s Hydratint in “Georgia” completed my look. It’s like a liquid blush, but better because it leaves a dewy finish in addition to color. It comes in what looks like a nail polish bottle. I’m not a big fan of the packaging, but the product is well worth the fuss. I give it a good shake, use the brush applicator to dab the product on the back of my hand, then apply on my cheek and cheek bones with my finger. Voilà! Understated flush.

Liquid Skin Tint

By now, I had started to follow C+H on Instagram and saw the fantastic, yet light, coverage of Liquid Skin Tint. I had a similar product that I didn’t think it could replace. I was wrong. It glides on, leaving just enough coverage for a bit of polish without looking overdone. I had found my perfect match in the shade “05” and it quickly became my daily go-to.

Conceal + Correct

This product has BLOWN ME AWAY. I grabbed it when I purchased the Liquid Skin Tint because it seemed like a perfect pair – and it is. The shade “03” is better than the three (yes, three) concealers I already had. Application is smooth, the finish is bright, and it lasts ALL day. It’s not only my favorite C+H product, it’s my favorite PERIOD.

FlexLash Mascara

C+H’s Instagram blew up when they released the FlexLash Mascara and for good reason. I kept my eye on Shimmer’s stock and eagerly awaited for FlexLash to arrive. I have been in love since. The formula glides on, and it smooths and separates lashes. Plus, it doesn’t flake off or smear, yet is easy to take off at the end of the day. How do they do it? I don’t know, but I’m here for it.

Pressed Mineral Foundation

My latest C+H purchase was the Pressed Mineral Foundation in “04.” I LOVE a mineral foundation, especially in the fall when I’m ready to forgo the glow and make it matte. I also find mineral application quicker than liquid, since there’s less blending to do. I load up my brush, swirl on my face, and go. I also like the refillable packaging – you buy a refill instead of a whole new compact when it’s time for a new one. Smart. Responsible. High-performance. Just like Clove + Hallow.

Confessions of a Makeup Lover