Recently there's been a lot of talk about BB Cream, also known as Blemish Balm, Blemish Base, and Beauty Balm. And because this all-in-one wonder covers so many of our skincare and cosmetic needs with a single product, it definitely deserves the spotlight. In fact, I would guess that BB Creams will be one of the hottest products to hit the beauty scene this year. So what's all the buzz about?
Originally used by dermatologists and skincare professionals to soothe and protect skin after laser treatments, BB Cream quickly turned into a makeup must-have that has been popular in Asia for years. Only recently has this multi-tasker been made available in the US. And when I say multi-tasker I really mean it, BB Creams are like foundation, concealer, moisturizer, and a treatment product blended together into one miracle balm.
In case you haven't tried a BB Cream, the closest comparison I can even make is that it's kind of like a tinted moisturizer, only 10 times better in my book! Because the formula is a balm, it's ultra-hydrating and feels cushiony on your skin. I'm so dry in the winter that I apply BB Cream after my moisturizer, but some people find it provides enough hydration that they can skip moisturizer altogether. If your skin is on the shinier side, try an oil-free version like the Estée Lauder BB Creme that offers the same moisturizing benefits with the added bonus of helping to control excess surface oil.
Moisturizing your skin is only part of the story, these balms are also tinted, so they help to even your skin tone, cover redness, and conceal blemishes and darkness under your eyes. If you want more coverage, BB Creams also act as a perfect primer for foundation and concealer! The one negative is that most BB Creams are only offered in a few lighter tints at the moment, so if you have a darker complexion it may be difficult for you to find a good match. I don't know this for sure, but I would guess that the color selection will probably expand over time just as it's done with foundation shades.
Finally, BB Creams provide a variety of anti-aging and treatment benefits. Both options from Estée Lauder and Clinique contain anti-oxidants and a high SPF to protect skin from the sun's damaging rays. Even though I know it's a necessity, I've often struggled with not wanting to apply sunscreen on top of all my other products, and BB Cream has eliminated that worry. If I didn't see the SPF rating printed on the packaging I wouldn't even know that it's there ... No heavy white cream to rub in and no nasty sunscreen smell. It's great!
Basically, if you're in the market for a moisturizer, foundation, concealer, primer, do-it-all beauty product that also provides oil-controlling, anti-aging, and sun protection benefits, you should give BB Cream a try. That's what all the buzz is about...
