I was super excited to try out the Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream after hearing amazing things about it, and hoping it wasn't just hype! In the past I had tried several BB creams in the hope of finding one that suited my skin perfectly. Unfortunately, this product isn't it.
First of all, I do LOVE the packaging which it comes in. I think the slim, stylish tube is so pretty, and I really like how easy it is for application.
The consistency of the BB cream is lovely, and it applied to my skin smoothly and with a good amount of coverage. It was only very slightly dewy, and I personally would not feel the need to top it off with powder or concealer at all. This is a great alternative to foundation in terms of the consistency and overall appearance once applied. Streak-free, flawless and pretty.
I only have two main problems with this product. The first is the scent; something about is clinical, somehow, and a definite turn off. My second problem is that despite this product being the lightest shade in the range, it still seemed way too dark for my skin tone. This could potentially be remedied by applying a light powder over the top, but on its own I definitely disliked the tone of this product.
I have to admit that going into this trial I was sceptical about the value of BB creams for my skin. I'd tried another brand before and found it really lacking. But after using the Garnier Oil-Free BB cream, and following the helpful guidelines on BR, I'm a convert and finally understand why people rave about them.
First up, the cream is fairly loose and more 'liquidy' than I expected but so long as you're careful getting it out of the tube, you'll be fine. It spread really nicely onto my skin, but only after I'd moisturised and primed my face. I made the rookie mistake of using it on clean, dry, un-moisturised skin on my first go and it didn't spread evenly plus caused large dry patches on my cheeks.
But on a prepared face it spreads nicely and feels really light and 'non-cloggy'. On my first go I tried applying it to only one side of my face so I could really see the difference and although its quite a light coverage it was really noticeable which side of my face had the cream applied. It didn't cover all my small red marks and blemishes but sort of blurred them out. Instead of a heavy foundation effect, it was more of a smoothing and veiling effect, which I was actually pretty happy with.
For work, I apply a light covering of foundation over the top, only needing to use a small fraction of what I would normally use. I would even feel brave enough to use the BB cream on it's own on the weekend as it's perfect for that 'no makeup' feeling but still leaving your skin looking more even and bright. It also lasts really well all day, even on oily skin. I'm a convert!
Tips: Definitely moisturise and/or prime your skin before using for a nice, even application and no dry patches. I used jojoba oil and ELF primer under my BB cream and it worked brilliantly.