[BEAUTY] — BB cream, short for “blemish balm” or “beauty balm,” is a versatile skincare and makeup hybrid that has gained immense popularity in recent years. This growing popularity of the BB Cream market can be attributed to the increasing demand for skincare products that provide a seamless blend of makeup and skincare benefits. BB creams cater to the current trend of embracing your natural features while also addressing minor imperfections, providing a holistic approach to beauty.
In today’s blog I aim to answer the following three questions: what is BB cream? What does it do? And how to use it?
Before we dive fully in, let’s first talk about how BB creams came to be.
BB creams were first developed in Germany by a visionary dermatologist, Dr. Christine Schrammek in 1967. Driven by a desire to provide her patients with a gentle yet effective solution for post-treatment skin care, she created a formula that would nourish and protect their delicate complexions.
Fast forward to the mid-80s — but mostly the 2000s — where BB creams found their true home in South Korea. K-pop idols and K-drama stars embraced the skincare benefits and natural coverage the creams provided, catapulting them into the spotlight. The Korean beauty industry worked its magic, enhancing the original formula and making it even more sought-after. This probably explains why many believe that BB creams originated from South Korea.
As word spread about the transformative powers of BB creams, beauty enthusiasts around the world caught onto the trend. Consumers in Europe and the United States couldn’t resist the allure of a product that combined skincare and makeup seamlessly. Today, BB creams have firmly established themselves as a staple in the beauty routines of people worldwide.
What is BB Cream?
BB cream is a multitasking product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup in one formula. It typically offers a range of functions, including moisturizing, priming, color correcting, and providing light to medium coverage. Think of it as a one-stop-shop for achieving a natural, flawless complexion with added skincare benefits.
What Does BB Cream Do?
Moisturizes: BB creams are formulated with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, providing a surge of moisture to the skin. This ensures a smooth and plump appearance.
Covers Imperfections: While not as heavy as foundation, BB creams offer a light to medium coverage that helps even out skin tone, camouflage minor imperfections, and minimize the appearance of blemishes and redness.
Protects from UV Rays: Many BB creams contain SPF (sun protection factor), shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This sun protection is crucial in preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of sun damage.
Provides Skincare Benefits: BB creams often contain skincare ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and botanical extracts. These ingredients can help nourish the skin, improve its texture, and provide anti-aging benefits over time.
Acts as a Primer: Thanks to their lightweight formula, BB creams can act as a primer, creating a smooth canvas for your makeup and helping it last longer throughout the day.
How to Use BB Cream?
Using BB cream is incredibly easy. After cleansing and moisturizing your face, simply apply a small amount of BB cream evenly onto your skin using your fingers, a brush, or a sponge. Personally I prefer using my hands. You can build up the coverage by applying additional layers if needed. If desired, follow with concealer and other makeup products to complete your look.
Although some of the key market players includes Shiseido, Christian Dior, Revlon, Estee Lauder…just to name a few, here are some BB creams you can find at drugstores and supermarkets:
Unlike foundations, achieving a perfect match with BB creams is not really necessary since their coverage is incredibly sheer. These creams are designed to provide light coverage, allowing them to effortlessly blend into most skin tones without the need for an exact match. So, whether you’re looking for a quick everyday routine or a travel-friendly alternative to heavy foundation, BB creams offer a fantastic solution. With their skincare benefits and convenient application, they continue to be a go-to product for those seeking a natural, radiant complexion.
>< This is not a sponsored post.
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