Musings of a Muse

A Blog of Musings from a Cosmetic Whore

Aug 1, 2008

Blemish Balm Cream: What is a BB Cream?

Your Muse hasn't blogged BB Creams as of yet since her experiences with them haven't really been the greatest however since I mentioned them once or twice I ended up getting many e-mails and comments about them. I recently reviewed Kevyn Aucoin's Sensual Skin Enhancer which reminded me of BB Cream so much in texture and formula that I was kinda of inspired to write about BB's soon after!



What's a BB Cream? How do I use a BB Cream? Where can I purchase BB Creams? These are some of the daily questions I get in my inbox!

The US market, as far as I know, has not yet been exposed to BB Creams. I imagine we are all somewhat obsessed with our skin within the US but I personally feel like the Asian population is more so and that obsession accounts for the mass amount of products released within Asian countries. For me and other skincare junkies this is pure nirvana!

One of the latest, greatest, popular, and hyped products to hit Korea are BB Creams which is short for Blemish Balm Cream. The craze began in Korea but has since hit Japan, China, Etc...

So what is a BB Cream anyway?



BB Cream is pretty much the end all of foundation, concealer, moisturizer, etc....It's a combined product that eliminates many products from your daily makeup routine and not only simplifies foundation but also offers key ingredients that we all look for in makeup and skin care.

BB Creams are highly moisturizing, contain SPF, have acne fighting and anti-aging ingredients, plus conceal and lay a foundation for your other makeup.

What BB Cream Eliminates from your daily routine:

  • Moisturizer
BB Creams are so highly moisturizing you may or may not wish to apply a moisturizer prior to using!

  • SPF
BB Creams contain doses of 25+ SPF so you don't need an extra SPF product to protect your skin from harmless sun rays!

  • Acne Treatments, Lotions, Etc...
BB Creams contain active ingredients for fighting off problem areas!

  • Anti-Aging Lotions, Potions, Etc...
BB Creams contain anti-aging ingredients to prevent wrinkles and also treat any fine lines you may already have!

  • Concealer
BB Creams act as a concealer for concealing under eye circles, baggage, etc...It also concealsr acne, blemishes, red areas, etc...

  • Foundation
BB Creams act as a foundation for prepping the skin for makeup and creating a flawless finish to skin!

  • Whitening Lotions, Fluids, Etc....
BB Creams contain whitening agents to lighten the skin!

You can see why everyone is so hyper and excited about BB Creams. They are virtually the superman of foundation however they are not without their flaws.



Your Muse has tried about 8-10 brands of BB Creams now and I've been disappointed about 95% of the time. BB Creams are NOT without one major problem.



My god Muse what do you mean?! They sound like skin care perfection!

The problem with BB Creams is color selection. BB Creams are not like foundation where you walk in and have an array of colors to choose from. Most BB Creams offer one color option only or sometimes, if you're lucky, two color selections.

Right off the bat I'll say if you're a deeper, darker skin tone I'm highly doubtful that BB Creams will work for you although I can't be sure as I don't have experience with application on such a skin tone.

I'm fascinated with the excitement over a product that only comes in a dull beige color. Many Asian girls do have a yellow tone to skin and beige is not only unflattering on yellow tones but just, in my opinion, unflattering on ALL skin tones. Thus my amazement over the hype that surrounds the product in Asian countries. BB Creams are so pigmented that the color will look very unnatural on any and all skin tones at least this has been my experience with the brands I've tried.



Another surprising thing about BB Creams is the fact that they seem to be best suited to dry skin. I have many, many Asian friends and about 95% of them have oily skin. BB Creams do not dry matte in my personal opinion and they feel very moisturizing when on so I'm curious how those with oily skin feel about the formula and texture of such a product.

I was recently contacted by a reader who recommended me a few brands I hadn't tried before that made some high end BB Creams. After discussing it with her I decided to give BB Creams a much needed revisit.



You won't be hearing about the bad. When it comes to Asian cosmetics and skincare it's difficult for the Muse to trash it. It's simply too high quality to snark at which accounts for my lack of posts regarding BB Creams. However, I have decided I'll start reviewing brands I have tried and the pros and cons of each. I'll also have an upcoming review on a brand of BB that I do LOVE and again this is thanks to the reader that recommended it! That review is coming shortly so thank the gods we finally have a good BB Cream to rave about.



BB Creams are a welcome edition to the makeup world and an innovation in skin care and makeup that needs a bit of tweaking. The potential for greatness is already there and with a little work we'll have pure perfection.







It's hard not to notice that I littered my blog entry with difference adverts of BB Creams. As you can see many, many, many companies in Korea have out various brands of the popular product so sometimes it's difficult to weed through the bad to get to the good! However, that's what you have the Muse for! I'll be sharing the best and not so great with you very soon!

Do you use BB Creams?

Love 'em?

Got questions about BB Creams?

Tell the Muse!



Love Korean Cosmetics? Wanting to know more about Korean Brands? Try a daily dose of past posts!

Etude House Moistfull Mask Review


Etude House Spring Collection Review

An Introduction to Korean Cosmetic Brands

Banila Co "Blue" Summer Collection

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91 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I can't wait for your list of BB creams, tried and tested!

I don't use BB creams but the craze is insane, LOL! Looks amazing though :P

August 1, 2008 at 8:55 AM  
Blogger Pink Sith said...

I have been testing BB creams for the past 2 months. So far the best one for oily skin I have found is Etude House Magic BB Cream. It leaves a slightly matte/velvet finish.
Laura Mercier is introducing a new tinted moisturizer that not only has SS but also some anti aging properties to it as well. So while not exactly like BB cream I believe some of the new TMs being released will try to capture the "spirit" of the BB cream from Asia.

August 1, 2008 at 9:01 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Muse,
I love your blog- fotds, reviews, makeup advice-they've been so much help to me! I'll be looking foward to reading ur post on the BBcream you liked, as i'm visiting Korea right now:)

August 1, 2008 at 9:09 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

Hi Julie!

The list is going to be huge and extensive so I'm looking forward to do alot of detail for it as BB Creams deserve that much at least!

The craze and hyper is fascinating especially since I haven't had uber awesome experiences with 'em!

Happy Weekend!
Thanks for the comment :)

August 1, 2008 at 9:09 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello Elvira!

I've been using these for about 6-7 months now and I've come across maybe one or two I liked.

Are you Asian by chance? If so any yellow tones to your skin? If so do you feel like the strange beige/gray shades of BB are unflattering? Curious what you think!

I tried the Etude House but I felt it was just a little too dark but definately agree it does dry down to a nice matte.

I seen the new LM it looks amazing and I really want to try it but TM's always disappoint for me so I'm slightly wary of dishing out the cash!

Thanks for the comment!

August 1, 2008 at 9:11 AM  
Blogger wen said...

hey muse! lol, im leaving too many comments all over ur blog =x

i tried bb cream only recently.
i got my friend to help me get Missha's watery bb cream from korea.

I've only used it twice so i cant tell you much, but it's not bad so far! saves me a lot of time because usually i take rather long to apply foundation.

i was quite put off when i realised that most bb creams only have one shade, but apparently, bb creams are supposed to kind of adjust to ur skin tone after application.

i dont really know if that's true, because everyone that i know who uses bb creams are much fairer compared to me. so it's like, not v convincing when they tell me that it really adjusts and matches to their skintone after application.

but i read reviews that Missha watery bb cream is in a much darker shade, so i decided to get it to try. i like its natural coverage! but then agn, ure way fairer than me, so i duno if it'll work well on u too. hmm. ok nuff of my blabberings.

take care! =D

August 1, 2008 at 9:14 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello jm!

Great to hear from you! Thank you VERY MUCH! :) I'm so glad you find my crazy babble helpful and you enjoy reading it!

You're so LUCKY! I wish I could be in Korea right now :) I'll be having a review on the new skincare for Etude House shortly you should def grab some while you are there as it's ridiculously cheap and wonderful :)

I'll be doing the BB cream round up soon! How long will you be in Korea?

Many Hugs and Have a fabulous time..and above all...HAPPY SHOPPING :) hehe Korean skin care and cosmetic prices are budget friendly on the purse!

August 1, 2008 at 9:22 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hey wen!

I love when you comment :) I owe you an email too. I'm sorry. I just get back to comments quicker :)

Did you like the Missha? I thought it was a nice lighter shade compared to other bbs!

I do too. It's a process to get my concealer, foundation, moisturizer, etc...all in place :P

It's true that most are advertised as adjusting however I still feel some apply crummy :P

I've had one that actually did conform to my tone however most are just beigey :P

Funny as I felt the missha was lighter in comparison to some I've tried!

I have to head home and see which I tried. it's the white bottle but can't think of the name. believe it's the shiny and or whitening formula!

I felt like it suited my skin tone very well surprisingly!

It's awesome it worked for you ;-)

August 1, 2008 at 9:27 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Kayvid(ddkamble@uncc.edu): Hi Muse, I really want to know, from your experience, which is the *best* whitening product you have used? Either an american or an asian brand and can be a moisturizer or a serum or mask or anything. Thanks in advance.

August 1, 2008 at 10:13 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello there kayvid.

I've used many many many whitening products and none really work in all honesty. masks, fluids, foundations etc..that promise whiter skin but all they do is illuminate and offer a bit of shimmer.

However, I have found a primer that works well.

I have an entire article on whitening your skin down 2 to 3 shades or more if you desire.

did you read it?

If not here's the link:

http://www.musingsofamuse.com/2008/04/beauty-secrets-whitening-your-skin-how.html


Hope this helps!

If you live within an Asia country finding the items I used in my article might be a prob but I know for a fact they are similiar items available within Japan, Singapore, Korea, etc...that can be used in the same way ;)

August 1, 2008 at 10:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

thanks, Muse! I´m very curious to see your list!

August 1, 2008 at 11:37 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

you're most welcome Nell!

My pleasure :)

August 1, 2008 at 11:54 AM  
Blogger Andrea Leite Marques said...

Hello:
I do use the pink Beblesh Balm (1st picture of your post) from Skin79 and love it. But the best one is the Intense Classic (also Skin79). The colour is perfect, very pale, but not gray at all. Sometimes when I feel my skin is getting troubled (my rosacea probably) I even sleep with it.
One BB I did not like was the one that comes in a black tube, from Hanskin. Over-priced and a greasy mess, I must say.
I have received today my Skin79 Derma-RX, a colourless BB for the night (no SPF, of course) and will start using it to see how it delivers.
Thanks!

August 1, 2008 at 11:59 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I really understand why Asians just love the beige. They want to look more white and back in the day there was virtually no yellow-based foundation. But now BB cream with only beige color? I hope they are adaptable color foundation.

I read somewhere that this BB cream came from the cream used after laser surgery and celebs just loved them. I've never bought any but from what you said, probably never will.

August 1, 2008 at 12:01 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

thank you, Muse, for blogging about BB creams! At the rate and extensiveness that you're blogging about makeup, i'm actually surprised that you haven't covered the topic of BB creams yet :-P But better late than never right? I live in Asia so I have access to different brands of BB cream however I'm still researching on them so I can purchase the perfect one. I don't want to buy one that isn't so good and end up wasting money.. so hopefully, you'll be blogging on the perfect brand of which will save me alot of time and money :-D

Thanks, once again!

P.S.) I'll start commenting more on your blog - i read it on a daily basis but thru email updates that's why I always get lazy to come to the actual site and leave messages. Although I've been wanting to for quite some time now. I promise not to be lazy from now on :-D

August 1, 2008 at 12:07 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi muse!

I'm korean and I've tried different bb creams. Unfortunately, since I live in the states I've gotten my hands on some samples from an ebay seller.

Although I haven't found the perfect match for my skintone, I did find some that were very close. So far I've tried Missha Vita, Missha Shiny, Missha perfect cover, CathyCat BB cream, and BRTC gold caviar bb cream.

Right now, I mostly use Missha vita since it's the closest match to my skintone but I like the coverage of BRTC better. I didn't like Missha Shiny because it had too much shimmer and I'm not too crazy about shimmer. I tried Missha perfect cover in shade#23 but it was too dark for my skintone so I think shade#21 will be more suitable for my type.

Have you tried any of the ones I've mentioned?

And I am definitely looking forward to reading your bb cream reviews!!

August 1, 2008 at 12:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Kayvid: Wow! That was an AWESOME article. Than kyou so much. I live in the US and now I have ordered the Lavendar base. With time I will order the other 2 as well. I'm very excited. I'm just worried about possibly looking ghostly :-) or unnatural since I'm medium-toned. I'm around NC35 in winter.

August 1, 2008 at 1:00 PM  
Blogger Tammy said...

I've never tried these before, but now I feel like I have to have 1!! lol..I'll probably have a hard time finding a match with my skin color though. =(

August 1, 2008 at 1:23 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello Andrea!

how are you? I like the Summer version as well which is the pink.

I've tried the pink and gold label and both are pretty good.

I've never tried the classic though..sounds good might have to get one!

Hanskin I avoid like the plague as I had heard they are an absolute MESS!

Do come back and let me know about the overnight treatment!

August 1, 2008 at 1:42 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hiya dao!

I totally relate as I'm always looking for ways to whiten my skin! ;)

The beige/gray is supposed to adapt to tones however I don't experience that with some of the brands I tried :P

That's very true actually! I don't like them as much as I had hoped but I think I'd be willing to purchase more if the formula was tweaked slightly :)

August 1, 2008 at 1:45 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello there babyboo :)

You're most welcome!!!!!

Where in Asia are you? ;)

I'm actually surprised I haven't bothered covering them either. I guess I just haven't found one that suits me ;)

Hopefully my upcoming article will help you make that perfect bb cream purchase babyboo :)

You're most welcome! It's truly my pleasure!

Aww thanks so much! I would love if you stopped back to talk again :) I really enjoy getting to know my readers!

LOL! Awww you aren't lazy :) I can totally relate as I read via email too lol!

Cheers and thanks for the comment! I enjoyed talking to you today!

August 1, 2008 at 1:49 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello fauxthentic!

Sucks we can't get these here right?!

I haven't found the perfect match either but I did find the gold and pink label from s79 works a treat and adapts very well to my own tone.

I've tried many from Missha, EH, Banilla, DV, and a few other brands as well.

I thought the shiny was too shimmery as well. And I LOVE shimmer but it was too much made my face look huge yak!

I hope my review will be useful in selecting some bb creams for yourself ;)

August 1, 2008 at 1:54 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi again kayvid!

THANKS!

Glad you liked it :)
I'm so glad you're in the US and could order it :)

About ghostly...just be careful. Blend, blend, blend and just use a tiny touch of the product under your foundation. A little tiny bit goes a very long way!!!! Do come back please and tell me how it works out for you!

You should be able to get yourself down to an nc25 if you're REALLY careful with your blending :)

August 1, 2008 at 1:58 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello tammy!!!!

lol! you should! BB are unique to any skin care/cosmetic around :) worth trying out!

It's not always difficult finding a match. They adapt to your tone it's about finding the one that adapts correctly ;)

August 1, 2008 at 1:59 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow! Thanks dear. I will definitely come back to tell you whether it works for me and how I liked it. I'm also waiting for your result of the giveaway of the BeneFit Perfume Vials! If you hadn't figured by now, I LOVE your blog. hehehe!

August 1, 2008 at 2:04 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

yay can't wait to hear about it ;)

Did you comment on the bspot for your chance to win? Hope so!!!! if not get googling ;) I bet you can figure it out!

aw shucks thanks so much *blush* I really appreciate your reading my crazy babblings here ;)

August 1, 2008 at 2:20 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think I'd really like to try a BB cream if the made one to match my skintone and it didn't irritate my sensitive skin.

In Meow I can wear Inquisitive Siamese or Inquisitive Sphynx.
Siamese is described as "you have creamy undertones, with no dominant peach or pink, but you may see a bit of yellow, peach, pink and beige."
Sphynx is described as "you have beige, pink and peach undertones (you can probably see all 3, but may see more beige and pink than peach)."
In Aromaleigh I wear 1YL Glissade and I could probably mix in some Alabaster too. 1 being the lightest level. YL is beige and yellow.
In MAC I wore 1N or NW15 or NC15, depending on the MA who helped me. I think I have a lot of yellow undertones to my skin, but I've also got a lot of pink and peach. I think I prefer Neutrals because it evens me out better.

I tend to have normal skin and it rarely feels oily to me.

I can't wait to see what you review and if there are any I could try, because I'd really love to try some.

August 1, 2008 at 2:34 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hey dd!

Unsure how these would be on sensitive skin hmm!

Sadly BB Creams are not so much like regular foundation. under tones and knowing your exact skin type will never help when selecting bb creams as they mostly come in one shade suits all :P

They are seriously worth a try but they also need work b/c the adaptation to tone is complete rubbish :P

August 1, 2008 at 2:39 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I know it sucks! I always have to think, how will this work with my skin?

That's why MAC foundation in Studio Tech was my holy grail for a very long time. I also liked the Studio Fix, and the Moistureblend SPF 15, but I just would go through the Moistureblend so fast that I decided I should start looking at other options in foundations.

August 1, 2008 at 2:46 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

oops, that anonymous was me, kayvid...

August 1, 2008 at 3:46 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

aw sorry dd :( I couldn't even begin to comprehend the feeling yak!

Would you believe I've never used mac foundations!? ;)

August 1, 2008 at 4:14 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

kayvid I figured that was you!

=-)

August 1, 2008 at 4:15 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow!
While I no longer use MAC foundations because of switching to mineral makeup (because I really do like how it looks on my skin, though please tell me if I ever look grey or funny to you!!!), their foundations are awesome. The Moisture one was basically moisturizer and spf and foundation in one, which was really nice. I think I just ended up feeling like sometimes it was too much for my face.

And one thing about MAC, it's NEVER irritated my sensitive skin.

August 1, 2008 at 4:17 PM  
Blogger Ethereal Prey said...

my 2 korean friends looked into BB cream. One from NZ was told by her mom when she went to the spa that the BB cream is for ppl who have acne or problem skin or surgery that needs to be covered up and to heal. and that BB cream is not for the general public to use since they don't really need it. However they are both trying to get their hands on some and so am I! LOL!

August 1, 2008 at 6:05 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Muse, I have managed to find bb creams for oily skins. Mainly the Dr. Jart Silver, Missha Perfect Cover (Red tube) and BRTC Perfect Recover Balm. I'm an NC30 and found all three to match my skin quite nicely. I do agree buying bb creams is a hit and miss. Usually what I do is buy samples off others to try, if I like them I source for the whole tube. :) Love your posts, I'm a fan.

August 1, 2008 at 6:15 PM  
Blogger jkim said...

hey muse! i'm looking forward to your bb cream review. i recently got my hands on a couple of etude house's products (one with spf and one for oily skin), and i'm still keeping my fingers crossed. color-wise, i'm always extremely doubtful when i first apply (the color always seems a little off at first, and i'm scared of leaving a telltale foundation line), but it seems to blend well and looks pretty natural after i'm done. i've noticed that i get little breakouts on days i use the version with the spf, but i'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping that's not the reason...

speaking of kevyn aucoin's skin enhancer, i recently noticed neutrogena had a "healthy skin enhancer" with retinol and spf 20. debating whether or not i should try it, but trying to control my impulse buying until i'm done with my current stash of products - lol. have you or anyone else here had any experience with neutrogena's product?

August 1, 2008 at 6:48 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think this is a very awkward concept. Companies have a lot of trouble getting single purpose formulations right so the chances of someone getting it right on all these counts is, I think, very low. Plus, a lot of consumers aren't going to want all of these functions together. Why apply potentially irritating acne fighters everyday if you only occasionally or never get acne? What if you love all of the other functions but you don't want to whiten your face? I think I would prefer to get a good moisturizer that works on me and a good foundation that works on me separately and use other products only as necessary.

August 1, 2008 at 7:33 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

BEBLESH?!? Is that the name, or a stunning example of Engrish?

Eff those beblesh balms! I'm thinking of picking up some KA SSE tommorow, instead.

August 1, 2008 at 10:16 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Hello m'dear,

I've been reading your blog on and off, so far it's been enjoyable. (And if you're wondering, i'm just a busy person.)

A few months ago I read in another blog about BB creams and I figured while I'm in vacation in HK I'd grab a bottle or two to give it a spin. If it helps, I am asian and MAC C4.

I tried the SkinFood Ginkgo and Aloe (SPF) BB Cream in the darker shade a few times and unfortunately came to the same conclusion as you. It looks unnatural, though it did dry to a matte. Not sure how good an anti-aging, anti-acne, etc cream it is, but I take that salespitch with a grain of salt.

BB Cream seems like a tinted moisturizer with too much ambition. ATM, I'm just using it as concealer and sticking with my StudioFix. The saleslady told me to use it as a base for my foundation, imho, is overkill.

Luckily for me, Skinfood's BB Creams are not too expensive in HK, compared to the States, or Canada, where I'm from. I might buy another one or two, because it makes a GREAT concealer, looking completely flawless in photos.

Hope that helps. :)

August 2, 2008 at 11:55 AM  
Blogger Sophia said...

hey!!! i'm glad you did an entry on BB cream. the funny thing is, i'm currently in asia and have heard lots and lots about BB cream but i never really knew what it is! i thought BB was a brand LOL. you said it is very moisturizing and yet it fights acne. i'm a little baffled! i have acne-prone skin and been following Dan Kern's Clear Skin Regimen for the past 3 years or so so i was just wondering how well BB cream is gonna work on acne-prone skin.

i truly can't believe how many different BB creams are out there in korea!!! :S

PS. got your hands on the MJ Gorgeous Lash Wing (or something like that. i forget) yet? i asked around the shops that stock MJ here and no one seemed to know about about the new mascara. major URGH.

August 3, 2008 at 5:48 AM  
Blogger na said...

Great post, dear! I've tried BB cream, but have been rather disappointed in them. I doubt I'll be purchasing more soon, but it's good to have this post as a reference just in case!

August 4, 2008 at 2:26 AM  
Blogger acutelife said...

Hi, I've just found out abt BB cream lately and now am eager to try it. Im not a big fan of foundation due to the hassle of putting it (or maybe im just not good with it :P), BB cream sounds like an instant solution. I just hope I can find the right shade as Im asian but my skin isnt that fair.I'll be waiting for your review!! :D

August 4, 2008 at 4:07 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hey dd!

hell no. You always look flawless!

Hmmm I should really try some mac ones..did they every look grey or ashy after hours?

I hear so much but I never really bothered! I really should as I love everything else mac ;)

August 4, 2008 at 12:05 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi ethereal prey!

True but it's since surpassed just for those who had surgery or problem skin and escalated into everyone using them!

Oh the general public is definately using it hehe since it can be purchased in any and all major drugstores in korea, japan, singapore, etc...there are too many brands to count who put out various bb's ;)

August 4, 2008 at 12:06 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

MAC has never looked grey or ashy on me. Sometimes it looks too dark, or the wrong shade :( but that's from an MA giving me the wrong color. Just because I'm pale they'd sometimes pick a shade without looking at my undertones.

August 4, 2008 at 12:07 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello mjacqueline!

Interesting to hear! I was wondering the reaction on oily skin.

Ditto! I concur most are a miss for me rather than a hit!

I've been just using samples from various products I purchase. Korean counters are generous with samples so they are included with my orders from friend cps so it's nice to just try it before I purchase too! Makes life simpler since bb's are normally a miss item for me!

Aw thanks so much! I appreciate your reading my blog :) I hope you'll come out to talk to me more often!

Cheers!

August 4, 2008 at 12:08 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hiya jkim!

;) I'm glad ;) EH's bb normally adjusts quite well to tone and I think my problem wasn't ith color but wear. Faded after an hour or so which stunk!

I haven't seen the neutrogena one but you have me intrigued now..would you have a link? jar? bottle or tube?

If I pick it up I'll review it for you :-) I haven't heard of it prior to this so haven't read up on it yet ;)

August 4, 2008 at 12:10 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi Anonymous!

It has for all the world the appearance of awkward but does what it promises.

The concept is it's fitting with your problem and adjusts as it should once applied. Such is why the colors are off. They automatically adjust to tone although most are a miss in that department. As for the rest..acne problems, skin discolorations, etc..it only treats what the problem area is.

Plus some are available in certain formula for instance S79 makes one for whitening with SPF and antiaging while holding off on skin treatment. It's all about finding the proper bb for your skin.

Normally Asian countries excel at skin care so I'd say there are definately some good options available in bb aside from the shades :)

August 4, 2008 at 12:14 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hey mandy :-)

Aren't you clever calling it by it's given name ;)

Stunning example of Engrish I'd say lol!

Oh my KA SSE it is ;)

August 4, 2008 at 12:15 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi am!

Aw thanks so much for reading my babblings here I greatly appreciate!

I somehow do take it with a grain of salt however I do believe the benefits of anti-aging, spf, etc..just not sure on the acne/breakout hype!

Oh lord that's big time overkill! BB plus foundation is ridiculous the point is to eliminate foundation and simplify the face makeup not make the job bigger and add steps to your beauty regime!

The prices I paid for my S79 was $10 a piece and I've seen them retail for $57 or higher so it's def cheaper over yonder!

Thanks for the comment and your take on bb creams :) Very helpful!

Cheers!

August 4, 2008 at 12:17 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hiya sophia!

LOL! Totally understandable as I read so much about BB I was thinking it was a brand too after a while!

I really can't say about acne sadly as I suffer from none. I'm 30 so much of my acne days are long gone. I've read raving reviews how bb's cleared up skin and such but until you try it yourself you'll never know. if your current skincare regime is keeping your acne under control I'd stick with it and just use bb as a foundation :) not as a treatment for your acne!

It's sadly insane how many brands put out BB so weeding through the bad to get to the good is difficult!

I actually have someone getting me the MJ now :) Where are you located? It's available in Japan as of the middle of July now!

Review coming shortly!

August 4, 2008 at 12:20 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi Emilee!!!!

Thanks!!!!!! :) Ditto :( I'll def being doing a few reviews so do stop back for a look at ones that are good and do work :)

August 4, 2008 at 12:21 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello acutelife!

If you're not a foundation fan bb may just be right for you as it eliminates many steps from the beauty steps in the AM :)

It basically smooths on like moisturizer so it's really a snap to use :)

I'll be doing a few reviews so hopefully one will be just right for your tone!

Thanks for the comment :)



August 4, 2008 1:07 AM
Delete

August 4, 2008 at 12:24 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hey dd
a majority of my foundations as the day progresses go ashy on me :P it's terrible!

MA's always do the same to me and end up giving me a shade too dark as they automatically assume that will be suitable for my medium skin tone but I have fair tones that look unflattering when they choose a darker shade :P

August 4, 2008 at 3:40 PM  
Blogger jkim said...

hey muse. i wish i had a sample to send over to you, but alas! i only wear makeup once every few months, and i've sworn myself not to make anymore purchases until i'm done with the bb cream i just bought. :-( anyway, here's the link for the neutrogena product (saw it at the drugstore for around $10).

i was looking through the sunday coupons (i'm turning into an old lady!!!) and saw that loreal also came out with a new foundation + retinol product - the "visible lift + serum inside" (which contains pro-retinol a and their "own serum complex," whatever that means). i guess everyone's jumping on the bandwagon now.

August 5, 2008 at 2:49 AM  
Blogger Vichaya said...

Hi,
So funny I just decided to get on the BB wagon recently, too! BB cream's all the rage here in Thailand as well. Although we don't have that many brands from Korea but we do have many shops that import them.
I'm not really big on BB cream (Although I'm very lazy, still I love the idea of applying anything one by one, skin care, sun screen, then foundation, etc... For me, BB cream's just for my super lazy day.) so I got only one so far and don't think I need to try any more.
I have dry skin with pink undertone and I'm LM#1 and Guerlain#501. Since I live mostly in the sea-shore town, I found BB cream:
1. Doesn't give enough SPF needed. I still need sunscreen anyway.
2. If apply too thick, it's still a bit too rich during the day although as I said, I have dry skin.
3. When just applied, it will look yellow-gray, but if the amount applied is right, the color will just drop and adjusting to my skin.
4. If applied too much, the color won't drop and gives me ghost-like face.
5. Doesn't go well with any shimmer or whitening powder since it's already "white & light" so unless you have a really pale skin, use a simple powder with a tad darker or a bronzer to tone the "brightening effect" down.
6. So far, the best method for me to apply BB cream is to use it sparingly then follow with face powder. Mine is Lola in porcelain or Coty air spun in Translucent. This combination works well for me. Anything with shimmer seems to be too strong.
I heard BRTC is a better brand for oily skin. Some of my friends love Lotree and Tony Moly.
I'll wait for your review with a heart beat.
:)

August 5, 2008 at 10:21 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi jkim!

Aw thanks honey! I appreciate the though! Good for you! I need to do the same ;) I keep buying them in hopes of nabbing an hg!

Very interesting! I'll have to pick that up and see how it works!

Nope you're not..*looks around and whispers* I do the same lol!

Obviously this is neotrogena's attempt at a bb lol!

I'll see about getting some for review ;)

August 5, 2008 at 1:17 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hiya Vichaya!

Awesome! :) I'm not surprised it's made it's way to Thailand :) Where in Thailand are you from? I was in Thailand a few years ago for a few months!

I'm not either but I do the same as you...lazy day makeup!

That's about the best I can do in regards to BB as it just doesn't have that feel of prepping my face correctly if that makes sense so definately all you've said is true!

So many of the things you said here are completely spot on!

I find a certain comfort in my skincare and foundation preparation and using just a bb doesn't seem to completely work for me!

Thanks for the awesome comment :)

It'll be helpful to those thinking over BB's!

August 5, 2008 at 2:02 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Muse!

My name is Lan I want to use a BB cream but I'm not sure what kind since there are so many choices and where can I get it from since I live in Oregon.
But I'm looking for the type that would cover and help my severe acne problems and the scars as well as whitening up my skin since I'm a really dark. Can you help me?

September 23, 2008 at 10:46 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi there lan!

How are you?

Sadly, BB creams are exclusive to many asian countries at the moment however you can try ebay, mua, and gmarket :)

I'm doing a round up review of BB creams very, very soon. I really need to know your skin tone and waht not to help but if you wait a bit you might discover what you're looking for in my roundup review :)

Hope this helps!

September 26, 2008 at 4:25 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

have you reviewed the bb creams yet? i cant seem to find them on your blog.if you have already could you point me in the right direction?

October 21, 2008 at 1:54 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi puffy!

Not yet :) but shortly!

October 21, 2008 at 3:27 PM  
Blogger Janelle said...

Wow, thanks very much for this informative post! I've always wondered what BB creams were & never really got a description as good as this. I'm not sure if I'll ever try it since I don't want my skin tone to be lightened, but I'd love to read your reviews! Maybe it will convince me. ;) I've got problems with acne & acne scars, & it looks like a BB cream could help.

November 18, 2008 at 9:27 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hello janelle!

Sorry for my terribly delayed reply :) got a bit backed up on comments!

BB Cream actually adjust really well to different skin tones..you might want to try the second color option available and see how that works for you :) It might work a treat :) and well worth it since you have a little bit of acne scarring and such :)

If you have any questions about which would be good for you let me know!

Happy to help!

November 24, 2008 at 11:21 AM  
Blogger Janelle said...

Thank you for the reply! Which BB creams would you suggest that have a second color option? I'd love to check it out.

December 1, 2008 at 11:48 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi janelle!

Mmm...Etude House offers two color options as does Jardin, also Missha does, and many many others :)

I'm sorta rounding up favs at the moment so do check back and you'll see some of the ones I adore :)

Hope this helps hun!

December 2, 2008 at 4:02 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for the reviews of BB creams! I've been curious to try them out since I first heard of them, because I'm Korean. I recently had a relative bring me some back on a trip there, and he came back with 'Etude Bright' BB cream. Have you tried this one before?

I'm happy with the color selection, which is reasonably yellow-based. But the texture is much thicker and more emollient than I had imagined, and it SMELLS. Sort of like old lady lipstick. What I'm wondering is, how is this supposed to help acne? From what I've heard, BB cream is supposed to be excellent for acne-prone skin - but this stuff is so heavy and fragrant that I don't see how. Do you have any insight on this? My Korean is too rusty to read and understand the ingredients label, which is too bad.

Still, it *does* provide excellent coverage and feels pretty nice going on. I'm just now sure how therapeutic something like this would be, and why it rates better than a regular foundation.

January 22, 2009 at 3:54 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi k

you're most welcome hun...sorry for the delayed reply. :)

Yes I have and it's quite good. I really like the EH bb creams as they are inexpensive and cute.

but yes almost all eh products carry that strange old lady perfume smell :(

It has all sorts of active ingredients for helping fight acne, clear skin, help with wrinkles, etc...

I couldn't tell you what exactly is in the formula as I don't read Korean but from what I understand it has a slew of stuff in it that are good for your skin :)

people are fond of saying how life saving BB creams have been...I don't have any true problems so I can't say for sure if they "cleared" my skin up :P

But who knows really could be hype only! ;)

January 23, 2009 at 4:06 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hi

i am from Malaysia and the Korean cosmetic is really a big hit here along with other brands from Japan too. I have just started using BB cream coming to a month now, Korean brand name Goowoonsesang latest BB, its call Dr. G Hydra intensive BB, - i like it, does lots of wonders to my pores, skin looks much brighter , blemishes seems to be at control, and it was sold out in lots of places, should give it a try, its a little grayish in colour but seems pretty much after awhile of application its quite natural,its expensive to me, but works well so not to complaint, my face doesnt look greasy after 5 hours of makeup on my face.

My best skin companion has always been the foundation, so this is great to know its good for the skin and doesnt clog the pores and has healing properties to promote healthy skin in long term usage. cheers

January 27, 2009 at 4:31 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi donna!

I'm so glad bb creams work well for you :) many people love them! I've found some I really like as well such as ones from Skin79 and Etude House!

It's so great to hear it works so well for your skin!

January 29, 2009 at 10:43 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Hello Muse,

I love the BB creams, I have only tried a TonyMoly so far but I absolutely love it and I will keep trying more of this creams!

Kisses from beautiful Oregon.

Noemi

February 9, 2009 at 11:29 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi Noemi!

I like the tony moly bb cream myself :) def try more..some are really great!!!!!!!!!

Kisses and hugs back hun!

February 10, 2009 at 4:04 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I wonder if this can solve my problems... like...acne.....open pores......oily face....... and break outs.... can these products solve my problemss.......I have sensitive skin....

February 19, 2009 at 9:41 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I wonder if these products can solve my problems.... I have acne, oily face... i break out..... and my face is sensitive skin..... i wonder if these products can help

February 19, 2009 at 9:45 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi sntn4everm

possibly...you'll have to try to see if it helps :-D

I don't have sensitive skin or acne/oily so I can't really say if it works at clearing up all those probs!

def try it out and see if it works!

February 20, 2009 at 2:30 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hello muse. I'd like to know if you could help me choose the perfect bb cream. Would you recommend Skin79 Gold Lable or BRTC Gold Caviar? I'd really appreciate your help. Thanks!!


-Mary

February 24, 2009 at 4:09 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi marry!

mmm Ialways find the BRTC is very dark for my skn...I'd go with skin79 as it's a tried and true fav for me ;)

hope it helps!

February 26, 2009 at 4:58 PM  
Anonymous catxld said...

Hey! This is the first time I've come to your site and I really like it hahaha! I'm using Amaranth 'Luxury Finish B.B Cream'. I just thought I'd mention it because I've been using it for about a year now and I have very oily skin and as long as a carry a powder pact around I find it really makes my skin glow! ~ So yeah haha that's my 2 cents ^^

April 23, 2009 at 12:30 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi cat!

Welcome and thank you :-D

thanks for the rec! Will have to check it out :D I've tried so many it's insane lol!

April 23, 2009 at 12:34 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi,

There are so many different brand for BB cream. I have combination skin and slightly open pores. I heard skin79 is pretty good. Do you think it suite my skin? There are many series for skin79. Which one would you recommend? Thanks.

May 21, 2009 at 3:42 PM  
Anonymous Shenice said...

Hi,

I am very interested to try skin79 BB cream but there are so many series and I do not know which is good for my skin. I have combination skin with some light pigmentation and acne scars. I am fair with a pink skin tone and some redness around the cheeks due to sensitive skin. Which do you think is the best for my skin and with a good coverage? I came across the purple dream girl as well and heard its good for teenager girls with oily skin. I also heard that Intense Classic has a very good coverage but there are also positive comments about the pink series. There are so many and I just dont know which to choose. Please advice because I need your help on this. Thanks alot.

May 21, 2009 at 11:13 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi! I'm new to ur blog. I found this blog some time ago while searching for what BB cream is. Do u mind check out new products? It's call crebeau. U can find it at crebeau-jeff.com or at crebeausha.com. It's pricey so I'm still reluctant coz I have never used BB cream before. Some advices would be great appreciated. Thank you.

May 27, 2009 at 1:41 AM  
Anonymous Miss R said...

Hi Muse...

i wonder if you could help me choosing BB cream...
from what I've heard the product is amazing for heal scar and everything...
the only problem is... I'm allergic to SPF's ...
can you recommend which brand or product i should choose?

I've just got my Etude House BB Magic Cream today...

thank you! <3

June 10, 2009 at 12:36 PM  
Blogger Trang said...

Hi Muse,

I'm an asian girl NC30 yellow undertone dry skin. I tried the Missha Perfect Cover BB cream today. It was horrible. I hate the gray ashy tone. It makes me look so pasty and odd.

Do you know of any BB cream without the gray colour in it?

June 17, 2009 at 3:38 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi,

Just want to give my two cents worth here. I've recently bought the BRTC Gold Caviar after listening to a good friend rave about it and reading about it online (all positive comments). Tried buying it from Watsons (only available here in Singapore) but was so difficult cos soldout throughout the island (so must be very good rite?). Finally got it. I have medium to fair skin tone but it looks DARK on me (agrees with Muse here). My friend is fair but it looks perfectly fine on her. Its very puzzling. After application, my face looks a bit grey. So for those with medium-fair skin tone, you might want to think twice before getting it. It also cost S$55 per tube (not so cheap). I still go back to my Shiseido Poreless Foundation as it makes my face looks smooth and "poreless" (hehe). Game to try the Etude BB Cream though, especially after reading your review. Plus it's much much cheaper at about S$30. I love your site! - Kat

July 9, 2009 at 11:15 PM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi sheeyin

sorry for the delayed reply been a bit backed up with comments.

I really can't say hun. There are so many different brands and I don't really have oily skin or open pores so it's difficult for me to recommend you a good one. if they are easy to access in your area I def recommend going to the store for a swatch :-D it's easier to decide by testing them a bit and having a play.

Hope this helps!

July 14, 2009 at 11:40 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi Shenice

I really can't say hun. I'm not great at recommending which bb cream or foundation a person should use. It's best to head in store if you have these on easy access and are from Korea for a swatch and a play. I'm not much of a skin expert plus acne/oily/pores etc...isn't anything I've experienced so I can't even rec a good cream for that. Perhaps see an MA as they can guide you best!

I have no pores, dry skin, and no acne so it's difficult for me to give you advice for these skicare problems and which bb would be suited for your skin type.


Good luck!
Hope this helps!

July 14, 2009 at 11:42 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi roseltv

Welcome :-D nice tosee you hear. I haven't heard of this brand but I'll see if it interests me and review it if so.

If I do use it I'll def review for you :-D

July 14, 2009 at 11:43 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi miss r!

I really can't rec hun as all the BB's I've tried including Magic Cream have SPF :( I'm sorry! I hope Magic Cream is working well for you!

July 14, 2009 at 11:44 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi trang!
yes many of them have that gray finish which is whitening. Try out Etude House or innis as these are nice bases minus that gray ashy look :-D

July 14, 2009 at 11:45 AM  
Blogger the Muse said...

hi kat!

yes sadly I know what you mean :( I notice after application if I apply powder or if I wait a sec the color adjusts every so slightly so def give it another try!

Etude House def makes some great ones :-D hehe! I think you'll like their bb's very no nonsense and if you can get shills in 'pore it's worthy of a pick up too!



and thank you :-D glad you enjoy musings hun!

July 14, 2009 at 12:33 PM  

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