Truth is, there’s a lot one needs to factor in when picking a base formula for an undeniably luminous glow. And if you’ve been banking on heavier, full-coverage foundations that do nothing but leave a jarring cast on the skin, we suppose you’re in desperate need of the modest BB cream.
BB Cream, short for beauty balm or blemish balm, is making a powerful comeback for a reason – the reason being the resurgence of ‘skinimalism’ and the quest for a ‘no-makeup’ makeup appeal. Although, you cannot pit BB creams and foundations against each other; it all depends on what you’re looking for. While BB creams offer a more natural, sheer finish with a keen focus on hydration and SPF, foundations promise stronger coverage and are ideal for a heavier glam look. Then, there are CC creams that target an uneven skin tone via colour correction.
Per my experience, I’d place my bets on a versatile BB cream for a spotless canvas. The complexion-enhancing product lends a buildable, balanced coverage and is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin types that crave lightweight, albeit blemish-concealing formulas. Scroll on to find your perfect match.
Swiss Beauty Shiny Pearl Water Drop Blemish Balm BB Foundation
Super affordable yet efficacious, I swear by Swiss Beauty formulations – including this one. The Shiny Pearl Water Drop Blemish Balm BB Foundation offers SPF 15 sun protection while delivering an oil-free matte finish. The multipurpose product primes, moisturises, protects, and conceals imperfections for your best base yet.
SUGAR Goddess Of Flawless SPF30+ BB Cream
SUGAR’s SPF-infused BB cream is blendable and buildable for sheer, long-lasting coverage. Imbued with detoxifying Dolicos Photoprotect that stalls signs of photoaging and boosts cell renewal, the mattifying formula showcases all the characteristics of a true champion.
Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C BB Cream
Vitamin C, almond extracts, and mineral pigments join forces to clarify, moisturise, brighten, and protect the skin against UV damage. A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face, concealing problem areas and evening skin tone to reveal a glowing complexion.
The Derma Co 2% Niacinamide Hydrating BB Cream
Invite this SPF 30 PA++ formula containing niacinamide, a hyaluronic acid complex, and aquaxyl into your vanity if you possess sensitive skin. Gliding on effortlessly, the fragrance-free BB cream goes beyond the call of duty to fade dark spots and reduce hyperpigmentation, all while lending UV protection and evening skin tone.
Nykaa SKINgenius BB All-In-One Cream
Boasting SPF 30, this homegrown offering enhances skin luminosity, fights signs of ageing, and repairs damaged skin. By delivering the goodness of antioxidants to your skin, it deeply hydrates the epidermal barrier while correcting an uneven tone.
Ponds BB+ Cream
In the pursuit of a soft, refreshing glow, I bought Ponds’ BB+ Cream – and I’m pleased to report it’s a purchase I don’t regret. The vitamin-enriched cream and light foundation blend promises the perfect flattering finish to brighten dull skin, leaving you with a clear canvas for makeup application.
MARS BB Cream
Meet this skin-perfecting, colour-correcting formula that promises medium coverage to even out discolouration and boost your inherent glow. Suitable for all skin types, the BB cream blends beautifully to give a barely-there finish.
Mamaearth Glow Serum BB Cream
Say hello to a tinted glow with this hydration-boosting BB cream that imparts a skin-like finish, owing to the presence of vitamin C and turmeric. Providing SPF 30 PA++ sun protection, the glow serum is lightweight yet non-drying, so you don't require multiple products or sandwiched layers.
When picking a BB cream, it’s best to begin by determining your skin type and concerns, and establishing what you desire out of your formula. While the hunt for the perfect product can be overwhelming, it helps if you’re clear about what you’re looking to achieve.
