Korean Beauty Balm

Feb 2013

Trisha Bravo

Also known as the BB Cream, this magical all-in-one tinted moisturizer was developed in Germany, formally for the purpose of soothing and healing post-surgery skin, while tinting to hide redness. Popularized by Korean actresses who used the cream as an alternative foundation,  Asian cosmetic brands mass marketed their own BB-based formulas.

Acting as a moisturizer, primer, foundation, and sunblock, this makes the BB cream the “Super cream” of all tinted moisturizers. Targeted for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin, the BB Cream helps to improve skin imperfections. Some versions of the cream also contain anti-aging, anti-wrinkling, and skin-lightening properties.

With its light texture, the BB Cream gives off a very natural finish. It also helps to minimize pores, which give the illusion that you’re not wearing makeup, while still providing a healthy, radiant look.  It’s great to use as an alternative to foundation alone or as an enhancer on top of your daily makeup routine.

Although the range of shades is limited to lighter shades, it contains oxidizing properties that match your skin tone. With its growing popularity in North America, darker shades are slowly becoming more available.

Now available at your local mall, drug store, and department store, (M.A.C., Sephora, The Bay, Shoppers Drugmart, etc.), some BB Cream brands include:

Image 1 (Source: www.maccosmetics.com) : M.A.C.’s Prep + Prime Beauty Balm – $36.50

Image 2 (Source: www.marcelle.com) : Marcelle’s BB Cream 8 in 1 Beauty Balm – $22.99

Image 3 (Source: www.sephora.com) : Dior’s Diorskin Nude BB Creme – $48

Other brands carrying BB Creams: Smashbox, Garnier, and Estee Lauder