I remember when I first started learning about makeup – everything used to be so simple back then. You spread on some primer as a base before applying a good coverage of foundation, lace it with some powder of your choice and you’re good to go. But now, with tons of new beauty options like tinted moisturizer, CC creams, and BB creams, I can’t seem to decide what to wear.

And that’s not including finding the right formula that suits your skin type, the perfect shade for your skin tones, and so on and so forth. And narrowing down to the perfect products that match your overall skin needs is somewhat overwhelming. Makeup is supposed to be easy, so leave all that confusing and complicated things behind. So, that is what Beauty Insider is here for; making things easy for you by understanding what BB Cream is. Are there any differences between BB cream and any other creams? What makes them considered to be the best alternative to liquid foundation? 

Don’t worry, scroll further down and indulge yourself with all the knowledge you should know about BB (Beauty Balm) cream—you’re now one step ahead in the makeup game!

(Source: Google Image)

The History Of BB Creams

Let’s dive in deeper into the history of BB cream. BB (or Beauty Balm) creams were considered as a trend-setter a couple of years ago, due to its rising popularity among the K-Beauty industry. So, for the majority of makeup lovers, you might want to give all the credit to them—but to be really honest, the first BB cream was founded by German Cosmetician, Christine Schrammek in 1967.

Long story short, Dr Christine created the magical product that is known as BB creams as an alternative to her patients that often dealt with skin peeling problems, microdermabrasion, and overly sensitive skin concerns. She came up with an alternative to replace all those heavy liquid foundations that contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that could worsen her patients’ complexion. And thus, BB cream was born.

Centuries later, the South Korean beauty world picked up what’s left of Dr Christine’s creation and further perfected the formula, and soon after, we saw the fascinating rise of BB creams, with the help of Kpop stars promoting its smoothing skin appearance.

BB Creams Vs. Foundation

So, what makes BB creams different from liquid foundation? BB creams are the lighter weight, and non-sticky option to most liquid foundations. If you have an oily skin type, you might want to consider changing your usual heavy and chalky liquid foundation to using BB creams. And unlike liquid foundation where their job is solely to cover all the imperfections, BB creams on the other hand, will help to soothe, smooth and protect your skin altogether. They are suitable even for you with the most sensitive skin, offering a sheer source of hydration as their main ingredients. 

Think of a light foundation but with a hint of hydrating moisturizers and sunscreen on it. That’s basically what BB creams are made of. It’s a powerhouse all in one though. You don’t have to worry about layering a lot of sun protection or hydrating products on your skin—simply coat the BB cream all over your face, dab with some powder if you want a matte look or to lengthen the wear-time, and call it a day!

(Source: Google)

How To Use BB Creams? 

There is no right or writing way to apply BB creams, though. You can either proceed with a foundation brush, beauty blender or a face sponge. Though, beauty experts recommend you to use your bare (and clean) fingertips to apply BB creams. Here’s what Sir John, Hollywood trusted celebrity makeup artist have to say about BB cream application, ‘’BB creams doesn’t need that much blending because they’re soft on the skin and very lightweight […] so it is best to apply them with bare hands as the heat of your body can mix with the textures and makes it easier to mimic along with your original skin complexion.’’


So now that we know all about BB creams, let’s take a look at some of the best BB creams available in Singapore!

Best BB Creams In Singapore

1. Power Perfection BB Cream SPF37 PA++

Not your ordinary BB cream! This magical BB cream from the famous Korean brand, The Face Shop, is dermatologist approved, offers more than one skincare benefit to further enhance your skin elasticity, restore hydration and overall correct any dull appearance on your face. This is a must have BB creams for all skin types!

Why we love it: 

  • Soothes, restores and moisturises your skin
  • Very lightweight
  • Dermatologist approved

Price: From $15.98

Where to buy: Shopee

2.  Laneige Neo Cushion

Image via Laneige

Fully trusted by all beauty lovers, highly rated, with a 24-hour wear, the Neo Cushion by Laneige is a favourite for a reason. It comes in two finishes; matte and glow. The matte Neo Cushion provides a full yet totally weightless coverage, and it has a matte finish that’s great for people with oily skin. It’s also sweat-resistant, perfect for the hot Singaporean weather! On the other hand, the glow Neo Cushion provides a 24-hour radiant complexion on the skin. The best part is that the Neo Cushion is refillable, so you can keep the container once you’re finished with the product, and just replace the cushion.

Why we love it: 

  • Compact packaging which includes a mirror
  • Comes in two finishes
  • Product comes with two refills

Price: $62.00

Where to buy: Laneige SG

3. L’oréal BB C’est Magic BB Cream 5 In 1 Skin Perfector

If you’re leaning more towards the budget side, then we recommend this L’oreal BB C’est Magic Cream. This small but mighty product will not only serve as your skin protector due to its SPF20 inside, but also offer up to 24 hour total hydration with glycerin, refreshing antioxidants that nourishes your skin, and mineral pigment that provides a smooth finish. You don’t have to worry about touch-ups!

Why we love it: 

  • Total 24 hours protection
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Infused with glycerin and fig extracts

Price: $29.95

Where to buy: Lazada

4. PURITO Cica Clearing BB Cream #31 Deep Warm

Image via Purito

The best and must-have BB cream products in the market for all skin types, even the most sensitive skin. This PURITO Cica Clearing BB Cream provides a natural, radiant finish, and even contains SPF to protect the skin from sun damage. It has a long-lasting formula so you don’t have to worry about touching up. It’s also free from artificial fragrances, essential oils, and harmful ingredients that can damage the skin. Best of all, it comes in six different shades with different undertones, and is affordable!

Why we love it: 

  • Helps to strengthen the skin barrier
  • Suitable for the most sensitive skin type
  • Provides both UVA and UVB protection

Price: $15.95

Where to buy: Zalora 

5. SHISEIDO Vibrant BB Moisturizer SPF 30+ PA+++

If you’re looking for something that will not only give a good amount of foundation coverage, but is also a skin booster, a moisturiser, and overall sun protection skincare essential, then the luxe Shiseido BB Moisturizer is definitely for you. Not only will it help to hydrate your skin, but also restore youth, bring radiance, and create a brighter, healthier and smoother looking complexion. Oh, not only that, it can also be worn on its own to cover dark circles, large pores and redness. A good investment, indeed. 

Why we love it: 

  • Can be worn as base, foundation or on its own
  • Provides up to eight hours sun protection
  • Infused with antioxidant properties

Price: $62.00

Where to buy: Sephora

6. TARTE BB Tinted Treatment 12-Hour Primer Broad Spectrum

Another boujee investment for you, peeps. This Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is a primer, lightweight foundation, sun protection, and anti-ageing treatment, all in one for you. If you’re dealing with an oily skin problem, you might want to give this BB cream a try. Its silky smooth texture is literally to die for, you could count on it to hold it together, even standing under bright sunny weather. It was made to dissolve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pores.

Why we love it: 

  • Can be used as an everyday anti-ageing treatment
  • Suitable for oily skin
  • Contain SPF 30

Price: $59.00

Where to buy: Sephora

7. Erborian BB Cream

Image via LookFantastic SG

Not only is the name of the brand pretty, but also the packaging and the texture of the product. Erborian went viral a while ago, and their products are definitely worth the hype. Their products are jam-packed with skin-loving traditional Asian herbs such as ginseng, ginger, and liquorice that helps firm the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties. Not only is it a great skincare product, the Super BB Cream also provides maximum coverage whilst still creating a flawless, no makeup-makeup effect.

Why we love it: 

  • Available in deeper tones
  • Hydrates the skin and reduces dark spots
  • Provides a light and matte finish

Price: $68.00

Where to buy: LookFantastic SG

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