What is BB cream?
BB cream (stands for Blemish Balm or Beauty Balm) is a multifunctional cosmetic product that combines the properties of a skin care cream and a light foundation.
The product was developed in the 1960s by German dermatologist Christine Schrammeck. It was initially used to protect and restore patients' skin after aggressive peels and plastic surgery.
The product gained widespread popularity in South Korea in the early 2000s, and has since become a staple in makeup kits worldwide. BB cream's primary function is to even out skin tone, lightly conceal imperfections, moisturize, and protect against UV rays.
Distinctive features
BB cream formulas contain pigments that adapt to your natural complexion. Thanks to this adaptability, product lines typically consist of just two to four universal shades.
Unlike traditional foundation, BB cream provides translucent coverage without a mask-like effect and doesn't clog pores. It's distinguished by a high concentration of skin-nourishing ingredients. These often include hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, niacinamide, snail mucin, peptides, and plant extracts.
Most high-quality BB creams have a built-in sun protection factor—from SPF 15 to SPF 50+. This provides a basic urban level of protection against photoaging.
How to use
BB cream is applied to cleansed skin. For those with oily and combination skin, the product can completely replace day cream, while for those with dry skin, it's applied over a base moisturizer.
The optimal application method is with your fingertips. The warmth of your hands warms the texture, allowing it to blend naturally into your skin. For a thinner coverage, use a damp cosmetic sponge.
The classic finish of BB cream is a dewy glow. It requires setting with translucent powder only in the T-zone if skin is prone to shine.
To remove makeup, use a cleansing oil or balm as part of a two-step cleansing routine. Stubborn pigments, silicones, and SPF filters aren't completely removed by regular micellar water or cleansing foam.
