Face off: BB cream

Not quite a tinted moisturiser, not quite a foundation; BB creams are the latest craze to hit the beauty world – and we just can’t get enough.

The ‘BB’ part stands for Beauty Balm, or Blemish Balm, and means that it’s a product that does more for your skin than just your average complexion perfector. Most BB Creams assist in helping with a number of skin issues, such as skin redness, large pores and dull and uneven skin – just to name a few!

So which BB Cream scored top points from our triallers in our latest face off? Read on to find out…

Chi Chi Super BB Cream
We say: A skin care and make-up product in one, this anti-ageing, skin-nourishing complexion-perfector contains revitalising caviar extract as well as green tea, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Our road-testers say:
Pros:
“I could do my whole face with one full pump, which is quiet a lot of product. I could get away with a half pump.” – MACjunkie
“It felt so light on my skin, and has improved my skin since the first use. Love it and will be repurchasing!” – babyeest
“It is extremely moisturising and should be most suited for those who have dry skin.” – WhoAmI
“At $19.95, I would expect to pay more, so I really think this is great value and would recommend it to use daily to anyone!” – Candyfairy

Cons:
“I would have preferred a BB cream that was fragrance-free and created less oil.” – WhoAmI

Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream
We say: Containing vitamin C and mineral pigments, this BB Cream offers long-lasting hydration, as well as UV protection and just the right amount of make-up.

Our road-testers say:
Pros:
“It is easy to see why this is a much-loved and award-winning BB cream! It really gives you that ‘my skin but better’ look.” – Muser
“The BB cream has a very unique mousse-like texture. It is very light and fluffy and blends like a dream.” – MACjunkie
“I found this BB cream blended really well. Light consistency, and good colour match.” – babyeest
“It minimises my pores and doesn’t make me break out even though it contains SPF and moisturiser.” – Candyfairy

Cons:
“It has SPF 15 sun protection which is a nice addition, but it would be nice if it were a little higher.” – Muser
“For oily-skinned gals, I wouldn’t recommend this BB cream at all, but luckily Garnier do an Oil Free version!” – MACjunkie

Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35
We say: A moisturiser, treatment, SPF and foundation all-in-one, the unique skin tone-correct formula helps to leave your skin looking flawless and natural.

Our road-testers say:
Pros:
“If you are looking for a BB cream which has light coverage, gives the most gorgeous velvety semi-matte finish, counteracts shine, and makes your pores disappear – this is for you!” – Muser
“I love that this BB cream comes with SPF 35+ which is more than what some BB creams provide.” – babyeesr
“Coverage wise, most of my redness disappeared and my acne spots were much less noticeable, as were my pores.” – MACjunkie

Cons:
“It did a good job at evening out my skin tone and covered up my pores and slight blemishes I had, but you could still see them both underneath.” – Candyfairy
“It did leave me with a white finish in pictures, something to keep in mind.” – MACjunkie

Revlon Photoready BB Cream
We say: Hydrates just like a moisturiser, smoothes like a primer, covers like a foundation, blurs flaws like a concealer and – on top of all that – protects your skin with SPF 30.

Our road-testers say:
Pros:
“I loved the natural look the product delivered, leaving a healthy and natural finish without too much glow or shine.” – WhoAmI
“I would recommend this to any YouTuber or someone who appears/makes videos. It looks great on camera. Would repurchase!” – babyeest
“It gives a really decent coverage without looking cakey on your skin.” – Candyfairy

Cons:
“Love this BB cream, but I found it hard to blend without a moisturiser underneath.” – babyeest

Which BB Cream would you most like to try and why? Which do you think is most suited to your skin type?

Keep reading