Spring Beauty Must-Have: BB Cream

In the entire history of makeup and beauty products, why did it take so long to develop BB creams? They are amazing. Four functions. One cream. I've been waiting for a product like this since I was diagnosed with rosacea 10 years ago.

What is a BB cream and what exactly does BB stand for anyway?

For starters, BB stands for beauty balm. BB creams are all-in-one facial products that are intended to replace moisturizer, sunscreen, foundation and serum. Most brands offer different shades so it can be worn alone or as a tinted moisturizer. It can alos be worn over moisturizers and serums as a foundation.

Since I had been using so many products to mask my rosacea, I immediately jumped on the BB cream band wagon in the hopes of eliminating at least one or two products in my routine.

From the first time I used a BB cream, I loved it.

As a rosacea sufferer, sunblock is part of my daily skincare routine no matter what the season.  Having it built into my moisturizer saves me about 5 minutes.

I also love having some added color so that I don't have to pour on the foundation and the pressed powder. The added coverage helps to conceal my rosacea so that I can use less foundation. The best part is that on the weekends or when I am working from home, a BB cream alone is sufficient without any other makeup.

BB creams range in price depending on the brand. Some start at around $6 and can top out at $60. The more expensive creams typically include anti-wrinkle capabilities and higher levels of SPF. Plus, you are paying for the high-end brand name.

My favorite BB cream is Garnier's Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. It is thick but loosens up once applied to the skin. It's available in 2 shades and has an SPF of 15. It has great coverage and is long lasting. It's a bit oily and has a somewhat strong scent, but I wasn't bothered enough by either of those features to stop using it.

Garnier BB cream is a great value for the money at $11 for a 2.5 fl. oz. tube.

Tips for getting the most mileage out of your BB cream:
1. Apply, using fingers, to problem areas first and allow the BB cream to seep into the pores.

2. Apply to the rest of the face and allow 10-20 minutes for absorption before applying makeup.

3. If your skin is very dry, it may be necessary to apply a moisturizer before applying the BB cream.

When used correctly, BB creams are all-in-one miracle creams for even the toughest of skin problems.

Are you using a BB cream?