Beauty balm creams are the IT in Asia, and have recently made their way to the U.S. Companies such as Mac, Clinique, and Smashbox Cosmetics have entered into the world of BB Creams. I have been hearing so much about them that I decided to see what the hype was all about. I went to Sephora and bought Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream in dark for $39.00.
What it does
This multitasking tinted cream formula with SPF 35 hydrates, primes, perfects, controls oil, and protects for flawless skin on set and beyond. Formulated with emollients and optical pearl pigments, this BB Cream gives skin a glowing, ethereal look and provides a hydrating veil for the complexion to maintain moisture on the surface of the skin. With its ultra-smoothing finish, it instantly re-texturizes to create a smooth canvas. Especially when worn under foundation, it enhances the wear of makeup for up to eight hours. Ideal even for oily complexions, this expert formula with UVA/UVB protection helps inhibit oil to prevent the complexion from getting shiny throughout the day without the typical chalky matte finish.
My Thoughts
I have been wearing it for a while, and I have mixed feelings about it. I love the fact that it is a multi-use product. Who would not want a product that is made to prime, moisturize, control oil, and perfect & protect the skin. I have yet to wear this product under my foundation. I normally wear it by itself like a tinted moisturizer. It is very light weight, and feels like I have nothing on my skin. I put it on add concealer, and set with powder. The BB Cream has a good wear time. It lasted all day. The one thing that I am having a problem with is that it can sometimes make my skin look ashy, and grey. I have been having a few dry spots on my face so that might be the culprit of the ashy look. I do like the product though, just not sure if I am in love with it. I want to love it because it would be perfect to use during this hot Florida Summer.
I think the ashiness/grey look has to do with the fact that it’s probably not the right color for you. I know caramel colored women who use it and think it’s barely dark enough for them. I hate that they call it ‘Dark’ when it’s anything but dark. That’s why I didn’t even bother buying it. I’ll wait until they make a shade that matches me better. I almost bought the Smashbox bbcream and while it wasn’t too light or dark for me, it definitely was too red, which meant I’d have to use it very lightly, and what’s the point of that?
Yes, I agree there should be more shades for women of color. I will still use the bb cream. I want to see how it looks under my foundation.