Why BB creams are the quick fix for instantly flawless skin

Everyone is on the hunt for the best base. Nailing this means that the rest of your look will be on point. One of the best bases on offer is the bb cream. The best bb cream can be found somewhere around the tinted moisturisers, but they do very different things…

What is BB Cream?

BB cream was the starting point for our obsession with all things Asian skincare. Known in Asia as a Beauty Balm, or occasionally, a Blemish Balm, the best BB cream is essentially a one-product-does-everything kind of thing. You’ll find super-hydrating ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid, normally a broad spectrum SPF, and other skin loving ingredients like antioxidants. Plus, of course, a touch of pigment to even out your skin tone without looking like you’re wearing a heavy foundation. Consider them a tinted moisturiser, and then some.

In fact over the last five years they’ve become so popular that they have become a staple product in many make-up bags. A BB cream serves your skin best when it’s incorporated into your routine.

Although BB Creams found their market in Korea, it was actually formulated the first time round in Germany in the 1960’s by Dr. Christine Schrammek, a dermatologist who needed a product to bridge make-up and skincare for her patients after they had a peel or cosmetic surgery.

But when did western markets get in on the action? They rose to prominence in 2012 and now the Blemish balms are a part of our everyday arsenal – almost every brand will offer BB Cream options and in plenty of shades.

But it doesn’t stop there. Spotting a prime marketing opportunity, many of our favourite brands have taken the alphabet theme and run with it. Now you’ll find the best CC cream and DD cream to suit you, and an array of BB creams for every skin type – whether your skin is dry, oily or a combination of both.

Best BB cream for oily skin

Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which is known for its ability to break down the bond that holds dead skin cells together and traps oil. Also try BB creams that contain retinol to promote skin cell renewal.

And don’t underestimate the power of hyaluronic acid – it sounds counter-intuitive, aiming for ingredients that hydrate your skin, but if your skin is hydrated it won’t try to compensate with oil.

Best BB cream for dry skin

Once again, hyaluronic acid will be your best friend. It’s able to hold 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a great hydrator. Look for humectant ingredients too, as they attract from your environment and draw it into your skin.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge, find your best BB cream in our edit…