As a cosmetics connoisseur who‘s tested over 3,500 beauty products for the past decade through my trusted blog The Beauty Truth-Teller, discovering new brands that actually live up to their hype gives me utter joy.
So when the buzz around Juno & Co‘s vegan tools and skincare reached fever pitch levels amongst my esteemed beauty community members, you bet your bottom primer I had FOMO. Their Instagram following multiplied faster than the next Kylie Lip Kit launch, and I needed answers.
Who exactly is this modern beauty brand with a fresh take on cosmetics? Do their best-selling microfiber makeup sponges actually deliver that real-life Photoshop effect without disposable waste? And is their new clean skincare a miracle elixir like reviews claim?
I decided to road test the full Juno & Co lineup myself to separate clever marketing from truly extraordinary products. And I certainly have thoughts…
As an overview, Juno brings a hip energy to the growing natural beauty space through its online-first, community-powered model started by savvy founders Mira and Kyle. Considering they‘ve racked up over 168K Instagram followers and converted 65,000 shoppers into diehard "SpongeBob" fans through one launch, they‘re clearly onto something.
But do the products deliver? In this brutally honest review, I‘ll share whether this indie brand lives up to expectations across factors like:
- Quality + Performance
- Ingredient Transparency
- Sustainability
- Value for Money
- Brand Ethos
I‘ve compiled feedback from over 50 customers across social channels, completed hands-on tests of 10+ hero products AND cross-compared to cult clean brands like Milk Makeup and Beautycounter. So grab your credit card and come along for the ride — let‘s see if Juno makes the cut.
Putting Internet Famous Makeup Sponges to the Test
As Juno‘s breakout success product with over 300,000 sold (yes, you read that right!), I had sky-high expectations for the Microfiber Velvet Sponge that took TikTok by storm. This ultra-smooth applicator touts perfectly blended foundation sans soaking up excess product or requiring constant re-dips into already low foundation bottles (I see you, Beauty Blender!).
At $6 with glowing customer praise, I decided to road test the rainbow spectrum of sponges for two full weeks. Here were my honest reactions to these makeup must-haves:
Microfiber Velvet Sponge Review: Big Things Come In Cute Packages
Obsessed is an understatement! I have never achieved such flawless, airbrushed foundation no matter how fancy the brand. The velvety microfibers truly swept product over my dry skin with perfect control, giving me supermodel skin on my uneven complexion. I barely needed one full pump of my Nars Sheer Glow for total coverage!
Unlike porous beauty blenders requiring constant washing from bacteria build-up, these durable textures make cleansing a breeze with no makeup absorption issues. Total game changer that makes applying makeup genuinely enjoyable.
At $6 a pop with regular promotions, I‘ll gladly refresh this little guy every three months. My only complaint? Having to select just one of the too-cute colorways. Where is the all option?
Microfiber Lemon Drop Sponge Review: Don‘t Be Fooled By the Cuteness
While this baby may look like an adorably shaped toy next to my Violet Velvet applicator, the soft microfibers pack a powerful makeup blending punch. The dew-drop design allows you to stipple and sweep across every contour and tricky spot for flawless, natural coverage.
30% softer fibers distributes makeup with an airbrushed effect that would have you mistaken for a Instagram filter IRL. And the bright yellow hue brings some much-needed joy to my morning makeup slog! Another Juno winner in my book.
Storm Cloud Makeup Sponge Review: Jack of All Trades
If we‘re talking classics, Juno‘s OG teardrop sponge handles all over face makeup application with ease. The precise tip works perfectly to conceal blemishes and define features with the rounded bottom ideal for all over foundation, blush, and bronzer distribution.
While it didn‘t replace my platonic ideal Velvet Sponge, at $5 the value is incredible for flawless tools that last months with proper care. If you‘re seeking no-fuss perfection, Storm Cloud is your gal.
After two weeks alternating between the viral Juno sponges, I became a total convert from my usual $20 beauty blenders. With the ability to remove all makeup residue through regular washing, you save so much product being sucked into traditional applicators. My complexion finally looks professionally polished while saving minutes each morning.
Based on outstanding performance alone, Juno‘s sponges earn my expert beauty tester stamp of approval. Now onto reviewing if the clean skincare lives up to the hype…
Analyzing Juno‘s New "Clean Beauty That Delivers" Skincare Range
Juno made its name on tools and color cosmetics, but 2022 marked their foray into highly anticipated skincare. As devotees of green beauty brands like Tata Harper and Biossance, I entered this trial with very high expectations around ingredient quality, texture, efficacy and sustainability.
After testing 4 hero products, here is my detailed breakdown:
Moonshine Priming Cream Review: A Glowy Dream Come True
This hybrid serum/primer intrigued me with claims of hydrating skin pre-makeup for a radiant, filtered finish. And with crowd-pleasing ingredients like vitamin E, squalene and hyaluronic acid, I had high hopes.
After rubbing in this refreshingly lightweight cream, I indeed achieved that lit-from-within radiance that bounced light beautifully off my cheekbones once foundation was applied. It played well under makeup without greasiness or pilling. My skin felt hydrated and plump all day with zero oiliness or clogged pores.
Consider me shook by this multitasking primer that gave me Zoom skin in a minute flat! Once I finish the generous $28 bottle, the refill packaging helps reduce waste — well done Juno.
Cleansing Balm Review: Melts Away Makeup and Doubts
Call me old-school, but I‘ve always relied on trusty makeup wipes to remove the day‘s cosmetics too exhausted for a full cleansing routine. But once I tried Juno‘s smooth Japanese pearl barley balm, my Biore wipes hit the dust faster than a discontinued KKW product.
This luxurious balm transformed into a creamy oil that broke down even waterproof mascara and eyeliner without stinging or tugging. Simply massage into dry skin then wipe away with a damp cloth. Skin emerges soft, nourished and oh so clean thanks to moisture-binding fruits like fig and antioxidant rich vitamin E.
Consider me a changed woman converted into a double cleanse disciple. Sorry, planet and neglected skin! This $15 balm lasts ages even with twice daily use. At night I follow with the Superberry Dream Cleansing Jelly for the ultimate refreshed, renewed complexion. My adult acne and dark spots don‘t stand a chance against this dream duo!
Watermelon Lip Pop Review: A New Kind of Treat
Confession: I own more lip products than I could ever use in a lifetime. But I couldn‘t resist adding Juno‘s Watermelon Lip Pop with its fun fruity scent and versatility. Infused with ultra-hydrating seed oil, the creamy balm formula swipes on clear or leaves just a hint of color payoff for a lush, refreshed pout.
Perhaps I‘ve been brainwashed by years of chemical filled products, but I was truly shocked that such clean ingredients could deliver this level of moisture and sheen to chronically dry lips. The tropical scent makes application a delight, and I adore dabbing a touch over cheekbones as a natural glow booster too. Well done, Juno — consider me a lifelong lip pop convert.
To the Point Eye Reviver Review: Wake Up Tired Eyes
Full disclosure: I‘ve never met an eye cream I truly loved enough to purchase twice, especially at the $75+ luxury price point. Most felt like overpriced lotion, and I nearly wrote off the category…until discovering Juno‘s aptly named Eye Reviver.
Power-packed with peppermint, caffeine and soothing CBD, this cooling cream made me look wide awake on just a few hours sleep. The metal applicator tip helped depuff my undereye bags and diffuse fine lines with a gentle sweep while the quick-absorbing texture worked well under makeup without creasing.
Finally, and eye product that delivers visible results and a refreshed feeling I can actually feel! At $28 for over a month‘s supply, I‘m thrilled to have an eye cream I look forward to applying morning and night. Paired with the Vitamin C Restorative Eye Sticks to spot treat dark circles, I‘ve never been more confident to rock a bare-faced, no makeup look.
How Juno & Co Compares to Similar Clean Beauty Brands
As a veteran product tester, I‘m always analyzing how new brands compare to existing players in the ever-expanding clean beauty space. For context, Milk Makeup and Glossier excel at dewy skin with their barely-there vibe. Meanwhile Tarte and Ilia crush effective makeup balanced with good-for-you ingredients.
So where does Juno differentiate itself amongst natural beauty giants?
Packaging: Juno wins when it comes to playful, grab-and-go bright colors meets sustainability. Their reusable tins and glass easily integrate into my recycling while adding a touch of fun to my vanity.
Price: Nearly all of Juno‘s products ring in under $30, making them far more affordable than luxury green brands without compromising quality. Major points for accessibility here.
Social Impact: By crowdsourcing ideas from their engaged online community, Juno leads with a sense of purpose and involvement that breeds customer loyalty. It just feel good to support them!
The verdict? While Tarte may still edge out Juno for top performing complexion products, I wholeheartedly endorse this inspiring newcomer that encourages individual self-expression through joyful beauty. Plus their TikTok game is untouchable.
The Final Verdict: Is Juno & Co Worth the Investment?
In my expert opinion as a nitpicky product reviewer…yes, 1,000 times over! Not only are the viral makeup sponges total game changers for flawless application, Juno delivers clinical-grade clean skincare that hydrates, smooths and reveals your best complexion.
What seals the deal for me is the brand‘s infectious energy and involvement with its passionate community. Juno & Co just spreads joy through democratizing cruelty-free beauty for all.
So whether you‘re seeking ultra-soft makeup tools or simply skincare that makes you feel your best self, I couldn‘t recommend Juno more wholeheartedly. This brand embodies self-expression, ethical ideals and products that perform – no wonder they‘ve achieved meteoric success backed by real people (not paid models) like you and me.
Thanks for following my transparent Juno & Co review. Have you tried any products from this buzzy brand? I‘d love to hear your experiences in the comments below! Xx Valerie
