Lately, everyone has been talking about BB Creams. Some have even been calling it a “miracle in a tube.” In response to this increasing demand, both high-end cosmetic lines and drugstore skincare brands have recently released a slew of BB Creams, all claiming to minimize your beauty routine and maximize skincare benefits. In essence, BB creams, short for “beauty balms,” are meant to take care of all of your essential skincare needs in the convenience of one product. BB creams are formulated to not only moisturize, but also protect your skin from harmful UV/UVB rays, as well as decrease the appearance of blemishes and improve uneven skin tone. In many ways, BB creams function similarly to tinted moisturizers with SPF, which we know have been around for a while. What sets BB creams apart from your average tinted moisturizer is the addition of anti-aging components such as Vitamin A, C, and E, along with silicon based ingredients that have the same smoothing effects of a primer.
Is this newest skin sensation the “wonder cream” some claim it to be? The jury is still out. Being the beauty devotee I am, I of course had to try it out for myself. Since this was only a trial, I opted for a more price-friendly option and picked up Olay’s Fresh Effects BB Cream from my local drugstore for a meager $14.99. I have to admit, I was skeptical from the start. It probably doesn’t help that I am a bit of brand “brat,” and usually select pricier, high-end beauty products that pack a powerful punch (and leave a hole in my wallet). After giving the product a try, I wasn’t wholly impressed, neither entirely disappointed. Although it did improve some uneven skin tone and blotchiness, it didn’t do much in terms of hiding my blemishes. Honestly, it didn’t conceal them at all. That being said, the scent of the cream was indeed “refreshing” as the product promises, and it was also much lighter than most tinted moisturizers that I’ve tried. I ended up using foundation and concealer over top of the BB Cream, which I guess defeats the purpose entirely, but I was happy with the final product. It definitely delivers in terms of moisturizing and priming your skin.
The final verdict? I’m not about to clear my bathroom counter of all my other beloved beauty products, but the BB cream is a nice addition. Since the coverage is minimal, this product is probably best for people who are blessed with few or no blemishes (obviously not me) or those looking for light but dependable coverage in the steamy summer months. I’m tempted to try a high-end version of the BB cream, but I’m thinking I’ll probably get similar results. Have you recently tried a BB cream? What’s your opinion on the most recent skin sensation? Comment below! We’d love to hear from you!
Feature Image and Photo Courtesy of Ulta Beauty.
