BB creams are an excellent alternative to foundation for those looking for a blurred but light finish. How do we choose the one that's right for us? Follow the guide. 

BB cream, also known as "Blemish Balm Cream" or "Beauty Balm", was originally developed in Germany in the 1960s by dermatologist Dr Christine Schrammek, to help protect and heal the skin of patients who had just undergone dermatological treatments such as peels or laser procedures. The BB cream was designed to camouflage post-operative redness and scarring, while hydrating and soothing the skin. However, it's in Asia that it's gaining in popularity, particularly in South Korea and Japan, where it's now one of the most sought-after beauty products.

In South Korea, BB cream became a fashion phenomenon as early as the 1980s, when Korean actresses began using it to achieve flawless, perfect skin on screen. This popularity then exploded throughout Asia and eventually spread to the rest of the world... Today, BB cream is widely used as a multifunctional make-up product. It often combines the properties of a make-up base, moisturizer, sun protection and complexion corrector, all in a single product. 

How to choose your BB Cream? 

Ultra-popular, BB Creams have continued to evolve over time, and are now available for all skin types and complexions (from fair to dark). To choose the one that's right for you, there are a number of factors to take into account, not least your skin type (oily, dry, sensitive...) or the exact definition of your skin color, including that of your undertone... Here are a few tips to help you choose a BB cream:

Defining your skin type 

The first step is to identify your skin type. BB creams are generally available in a range of formulas, suitable for dry skin, mature skin, oily skin, combination skin and sensitive skin. Choosing the right BB cream for your skin type will ensure the best results.

Choosing the best coverage

Although light in texture, coverage varies from one BB cream to another. Some offer light coverage for a natural look, while others offer higher coverage to conceal small imperfections. Choose a BB cream with the desired coverage according to your personal needs.

Finding the right shade 

BB creams are available in different shades. The key is to choose a shade that best matches your skin tone. If you can't find exactly the right shade, don't panic, you can opt for a BB cream that adapts to your skin color once applied... Magic! 

Choose one with integrated sun protection 

Asian women (especially South Koreans and Japanese) worship their skin's radiance. The beauty industry is well aware of this, and it's common to find all kinds of complexion products that already include an SPF. Many BB creams, for example, offer built-in sun protection. This is ideal when you're looking for daily sun protection without having to add a sunscreen to your skincare routine. Of course, you should choose a BB cream with a sun protection factor (SPF) appropriate to your needs. An SPF of 30 or more is generally recommended.

Understanding ingredients and their benefits

Check the ingredient list to see if the BB cream contains ingredients beneficial to your skin type, such as antioxidants, moisturizers (like hyaluronic acid) or soothing active ingredients. For maximum effectiveness, select a BB cream that offers benefits adapted to different skin concerns, ideally complementing the actions of the day cream...

Always test and adjust your choice 

If possible, ask for samples of BB creams before making a purchase. Test them on your skin to evaluate color, texture, hold and comfort. If necessary, don't hesitate to adjust your choice until you find the BB cream that suits you best.

Bear in mind that a BB cream is a multi-purpose product, and that personal preferences may influence the choice. Let's also note that it's not a foundation, will never have the same coverage capacity and may not be suitable for high make-up expectations. Let's just say that the BB cream is a good friend when you're looking to reveal your natural glow without camouflaging the skin as various foundations would.

How do I apply BB Cream? 

In terms of texture, BB Crème is closer to a skincare product than a foundation. It can therefore easily be applied with the finger, although a beauty blender, a spatula (Korean style) or a brush will do just as well.

1. Prepare your skin: Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and apply a face serum, eye serum and moisturizer suited to your skin type. Allow the moisturizer to absorb completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Choosing the right amount: Determine the amount of BB cream you'll need based on the coverage you want. Start with a small amount and add more if necessary. It's best to start with a small amount to avoid applying too thickly.

3. Apply BB cream: Use clean fingers, a brush, spatula or make-up sponge to apply BB cream. Start at the center of the face and work outwards. Be sure to cover the entire face evenly, including chin, nose and forehead. Blend around the edges to avoid visible lines.

4. Blend carefully: Use gentle movements and light tapping to blend the BB cream onto the skin. Make sure it blends well and adapts to your natural skin tone. Make sure to cover all desired areas, including imperfections or redness.

5. Readjust if necessary: If you find that coverage is insufficient, add a small amount of extra BB cream to areas requiring extra coverage. You can also use a complexion corrector or concealer to further conceal imperfections if necessary.

6. Finish make-up: you can apply other make-up products such as powder, blush, mascara, etc. according to your preferences. If you have oily skin or want to prolong the wear of your BB cream, make sure to set your make-up with a light powder.