Article by BR Natalie
Beauty Balm. Blemish Balm. Beauty Base.
If you're not already on the BB train, it is our mission this week to bring you aboard. We've teamed with Garnier to form a trial team of 2500 members, who will each trial their perfect match from the Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream range.
Using a new type of product can be overwhelming at first. You might think you know how to use it, only to try it and not get the result you expect. Or maybe you delve straight in to using it and never explore the other ways it can benefit you.
The great thing about BB creams is that they are notoriously easy to use. It's not like using foundation for the first time, wading through endless formats, formulas and shades. It's probably much more difficult to go wrong with a BB than it is to go right.
What are BB Creams?
BB Creams are the ultimate all-in-one skincare product. Put simply they are akin to a tinted moisturiser, with oodles of extra benefits. Beauty or Blemish Balm (amongst other names) blur the lines between skincare and cosmetics, bringing you the best of both worlds.
Take Garnier's Miracle Skin Protector for example. It's an all-in-one moisturiser combining skincare with mineral pigments to even skin tone, illuminate, cover imperfections, with 24Hr hydration and SPF protection.
Check out our article Do You Know Your BBs From Your CCs for the complete lowdown.
What do I need a BB Cream for?
BB Creams can be used for many reasons; they can be used by themselves to cover imperfections and redness or just perk up and brighten a dull complexion. They can also be used under foundation to maximise the overall results of the finish.
BB Creams can be used in so many ways; depending on the shade and formula you can use them alongside or in place of, your, moisturiser, foundation, primer, concealer, highlighter and sun protection. For the last one, as with any beauty product containing SPF, Beauty Review recommends using a separate facial sunscreen to get maximum protection from the sun.
If you try a BB Cream and think it's not for you, (barring any skin reactions) give it a go in a different way. You might be surprised!
How much do they cost?
Like anything beauty related, the price range is as varying as the list of foundation numbers! You can pick up a BB Cream for a few dollars or for a hundred dollars. Which is where Beauty Review comes in - research and read reviews to find the best product in your price range!
How do I choose the right one for me?
Most BB Creams will come in 2 or 3 shades, so finding the perfect match isn't like the hunt for the perfect foundation. Then you'll want to pick a formula for your skin type. Garnier BB creams come in four varieties to match four very different skin types. Normal, Oily, Sensitive and Anti-ageing.
For example, BB Creams aimed at those 40+ are likely to be a thicker, richer consistency to hydrate mature skin and will also help reduce the look of pore size, fine lines and pigmentation.
Like any product it's important you get the one that's right for your skin type otherwise you won't experience the product at it's best.
How do I apply a BB Cream?
Our top tip is to always moisturise your face as usual. Moisture is good!
You really don't need anything other than your hands to apply your BB cream, treat it like you would your moisturiser! If you really dislike using your hands you can apply with a sponge, but you'll want to wet it first to prevent the sponge devouring lots of product.
If you're using your BB Cream for more than a healthy glow, ie, a base with some coverage, use a primer to get the best from it!
How else can I use a BB Cream?
You can use your BB Cream as a concealer, dab and apply to dark circles and blemishes and blend well. Give it a few minutes and then apply BB Cream to the rest of your face.
Experiement with BB mixers! Mix your BB Cream with:
- Moisturiser for a thinner, more sheer coverage. Think the 'dewy-no-makeup' look.
- Cream Blush to thin out the blush making it easier to apply and blend, as well as lightening a too-dark colour.
- Liquid Foundation for a lighter shade. This can be great if you don't want to buy a new foundation for your paler winter skin. It will also thin out the formula.
- Highlighter to use as a body gloss. Think shoulder, collar bone, decollatage and hey, why not your bare legs, for a healthy glow.
However you decide to mix, do it on the back of your hand, don't contaminate your existing containers (or make a booboo and ruin a perfectly good product!)
So there you have it, the BR Guide to BB Creams. If you secure a trial spot this week, be sure to refer back to this guide and get the best out of your BB Cream! Any questions?
I've just started using BB creams this yeah. I was more of a beauty cake girl. I used to use foundation sticks because they have better coverage. I think their a more affordable alternative to foundation. I love that they have SPF in them .