Searching for the Right BB Cream? I think I found it!

I think I have been on the search for over 4 years now. I try to think "skincare" first and makeup second. However, even on the way to the grocery store, I still want sun protection and an even looking fresh face! It's really hard to think of wearing nothing! My must-haves: BB Cream, mascara and a tinted lip balm.

After MANY tubes, bought and sampled, I have to say I REALLY found one I like. It simply comes down to this one. Until I have to start a new research project :).

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What is BB Cream?

It is the multi-tasker. The one product to help prime, hydrate and protect skin while providing seamless coverage. Isn't that what we all what? Simplicity!

It stands for BB cream stands for blemish balm, blemish base, beblesh balm, and in Western markets, beauty balm.

Where did BB Cream Come From?

They were first developed in Germany by a dermatologist who wanted a single cream that would protect skin and provide coverage after laser treatments. This one stop beauty regimen became a sensation in South Korea and spread throughout Asia.

"The average woman in Asia goes through seven different steps taking care of her skin," says Jessica Wu, MD, a Santa Monica, Calif., dermatologist and author of Feed Your Face: Younger, Smoother Skin and a Beautiful Body in 28 Delicious Days. "When I was in Hong Kong, every woman I spoke to was using a BB cream to shorten that regimen." (Source: Web MD).

What do BB Creams Do?

First, they offer sun protection, although I definitely recommend additional SPF to your daily regimen. It is a must for skincare and should not be overlooked.

BB creams that contain:

Anti-aging components, including peptides and antioxidants such as vitamins A, E, and C
Moisturizing workhorses like hyaluronic acid and glycerin
Ingredients such as licorice and arbutin that help even out skin tone
Light-reflecting mica to give skin a luminous finish
Silicone-based ingredients, such as dimethicone, that help smooth the skin, acting much like a foundation primer does

The Challenge

Finding the right color!!! BB creams come in a limited number of shades. The light/medium is NOT going to always work or the dark is not going to always work. Just like foundations. I know, frustrating! I have found myself having to mix shades just like playing with foundations.

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SOOOOO!!! Here you go!! The Best Summer BB Cream!!

Coola

Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint Natural BB Cream

Satiny-smooth, slippery texture that blends weightlessly on skin. Its neutral tint is ideal for light-to-medium complexions, and the mattifying finish is perfect for diffusing the shininess on oily areas.

Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint Natural BB Cream comes in airtight, opaque packaging to help keep its light- and air-sensitive ingredients stable, and its formula is rated for 40 minutes of water resistance.

And Coola is All Natural - this product does contain synthetic ingredients.

PROS:

Matte finish diffuses oily skin and blurs imperfections.
Packed with anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and emollients to rejuvenate skin.
Satiny-smooth, silicone-esque texture has a lightweight feel.
Sheer neutral tint is ideal for light-to-medium complexions.
Provides gentle, mineral-based broad-spectrum sun protection.
Water-resistant.

CONS:

None.

Source

Next: Tackling the CC Cream

These creams are color controlled creams. They seem to have a lighter texture, a bit more coverage and more hydration. So as I am in my late 30's, I believe this should be my focus. However, it really depends on your skin and the condition it is in.