As promised, I ventured to Sephora for some BB Cream samples last week. I have been so excited to try these unique formulas that combine skincare and makeup! It was a little disappointing because most of the BB Cream Collection advertised online wasn’t available in-store. Some were sold out, some just weren’t available in Canada – I guess that’s the price I pay for being on the cutting edge of beauty! Haha…
The Dr. Jart+ and Clinique versions aren’t available in Canada yet and the Boscia and Smashbox versions were sold out – which only makes me want them more!!! I was able to get my hands on two samples…
Right away, I knew I wouldn’t be able to use the Dior BB Cream because it’s only available in one shade and sadly, it’s too dark. Testing it on my hand, I can see that it’s lightweight, fast-absorbing and dries with a nice matte-finish. I can tell that it would provide good coverage and it must have great moisturizing skincare benefits coming from Dior. The reviews online are good, I just don’t understand why they would only come out with one colour, especially since it doesn’t self-adjust to skin tone. Hopefully if it becomes popular, they will release more colours!
The Too Faced formula comes in 4 shades suitable for most skin tones. I chose the lightest formula for my fair skin called Vanilla Glow. I was originally turned off by the “glow” in the name and the slight shimmer I could see when I sampled it on my hand, but when I tested it on my face, the illuminating effects were minimal (phew…not a fan of overall shine). The delicate tinting effect was really pretty too!
I applied this sheer, lightweight cream to my entire face. It was easy to blend with my fingers and I could tell right away that the coverage was good enough to wear alone without other skin makeup (like primer, foundation or powder). I don’t think it’s moisturizing enough to skip my moisturizer, but it definitely wasn’t drying and I’m sure it provides additional moisture throughout the day.
The Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm boasts healthier skin with an anti-aging, multi-mineral complex that promotes cell health, elasticity and luminosity. This skin perfecting, hypo-allergenic formula delivers oil-free hydration and protects skin with a chemical-free SPF 20 broad spectrum sunscreen.
I applied this BB Cream after my Dermalogica moisturizer and was so happy with the results that I bypassed my usual skin makeup (spot treatment concealer and Bare Escentuals powder foundation). I still used a little NARS Concealer under my eyes, but otherwise it’s just the BB Cream on my skin in the photo below!
Overall, I would definitely use this BB Cream as a daily makeup. It lasted for hours without fading and my skin felt soft all day and never got irritated. I love the added benefits of skincare in my makeup and the SPF protection! I would still use foundation for a more glamourous look, but this stuff is great for casual daytime or the office. Makes my makeup routine easier too!
Stay tuned as I try to get my hands on the Boscia and Smashbox BB Creams – can’t decide until I try them all!
I splurged on the Estee Lauder BB. It’s quite dark. The light works for me. I love the smell and texture. It goes on easily, gives me a dewy but non-sparkly look. Lasts all day. It doesn’t have the best coverage but my skin is feeling and looking better. Prices at $50 inc tax for a tiny bottle, though.
Oooh that sounds lovely! I didn’t see that one at Sephora, but I’m sure I could get a sample at The Bay. I’m really liking the Too Faced one so far. The coverage is great and long lasting and it doesn’t look like makeup. I’m honestly surprised I like it so much because of the illuminating effect, but it’s so minimal and I actually enjoy the warm tint and dewy glow. I’m glad you found a BB Cream that you love! I will keep trying them and let you know how they are