• Tara, this article is brilliant. Agree with every word. - Nicole Madigan
  • Santorini..... - Katherine Basher
  • Very moving. Everyone I know who had done this has been touched by it. - Jo
  • Wonderful. I always ask myself will someone die if I fuck up? Will it matter in 3 months? And who fucking cares? Works for me. The swearing part is important apparently. ;-) x - Michaela C
  • Our focus on women and children and their difficulties ignores the elephant in the room. Where is the father/partner in this equation? Where is the support, financial responsibilty, active participation and general parental sharing by partners/fathers? Where are they all? Why has the focus on women and children left them invisible and unaccountable? Is it because we don't expect men to take care of their responsibilities, or is it too hard any issue to deal with? I fully acknowledge that there are many exceptions, including death of a partner, abuse and violence, and other diverse reasons, but is there no way we can broaden the debate to include the responsibilities of partners/fathers? Just a thought. - Nel Matheson
  • Can we please clarify that not all single parent families were moved from PPS to Newstart - only those who were grandfathered by the Howard government when they brought in the changes many moons ago. It was Howard and his cronies that singled out and privileged a group of single parents, allowing them to recevie more than anyone in similar circumstances who didn't benefit from the grandfathering, or never received PPS in the first place (Not everyone's marriage ends before their youngest child turns eight). While I don't believe that Newstart is sufficient to live on and raise children easily I am very much against this focus that has been placed and what is in reality a small group of people. How about fighting to put everyone on PPS or to increase Newstart rather than just a few. - Carz
  • Well spoken, Vanessay. I cringe when I hear people go on about single mothers. As if it's only the mothers who deserve the social stigmatization and the husbands, boyfriends, partners don't. And as if the two parent family is so perfect. As if no two parent family lives off the taxpayer or eats junk food. But more important than the social stigma that attaches itself to their children is the poverty that disadvantages them and how it can be transmitted to the next generation. Many single mothers are close to the bread line and that's not good enough. Do we want them on the street? How would that look? It's no better than kicking someone when they're down. Un-Australian. - Rhoda
  • I was just going to comment on the same thing! I worked on my first Apple computer in 1989, aged 20 - and they have the hide to say over 40 is too old to learn? We've "grown up" with computers too - they just can't do the maths. - HellB
  • We give aid to overseas countries to strengthen the education of women and female children so that future generations in those countries are not raised in poverty. The single most important factor contributing to low birth rate is education, yet we defund single mums in our own country so that their education and that of their children remains at a low level thereby perpetuating the poverty/ young mother cycle. Three stories from my life. Mother A became a single Mum when her husband was killed crossing the road at work to get his lunch. Mother B became a single M um when her husband was stung by numerous large ants while at work (anaphylactic shock) and Mother C's husband said "goodbye, I love you, I'll see you tonight" and got on a plane, flew interstate and texted her to tell her he'd had enough. That Mum has 5 kids, one with a disability. Furthermore, the waiting rooms of the oncology and specialties dealing with kids with disabilities like autism at the Children's Hospitals are full of single Mums whose partners have "had enough". There are also women and children who will lose their lives because they are too afraid to leave abusive situations because of the this constant putting down of women who access benefits and fear that they will not be able to survive on the benefit if they are able to muster the courage to leave. These are the mums these government decisions are hurting, not the VERY few Mums who think they can keep having kids to keep getting benefits. People who are determined not to work will always find a way not to work. The whole thing is demeaning to single parents and to women in our "advanced" country. - vanessay
  • Great article. Regarding Newstart and the $35 a day question - I have experience of living on this and came across this equally relevant blogpost regarding the topic - http://50shadesofunemployment.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/australia-on-35-day.html - Antonio
 
40
Categories:  Beauty, Must see, Style

CULT BEAUTY PRODUCT: BB CREAMS

By Nikki Parkinson
September 12, 2012

If you are hiding under a cosmetics rock (which is quite feasible and perfectly valid because you are probably doing something more important) then you might not have heard of the latest cult beauty product: BB Creams.

 

It was about a year ago that I had to ask someone just what this BB thing was all about.

I was at the Illamasqua makeup counter in Myer Brisbane City and a talented makeup artist was taking my mid-40s face and seemingly waving an airbrush over it.

Except it wasn’t an airbrush. It wasn’t an Instagram filter and certainly not any Photoshop trickery.

It was the best foundation my skin has ever had the pleasure of meeting. And its genius is owed in part to its formulation, a formulation largely based on how a BB cream is formulated. (!)

 Right about now you’re wishing I’d explain the BB bit, aren’t you?

Here goes:

BB stands for blemish or beauty balm. Not only do these creams instantly even out complexions (think of them as a tinted moisturiser with super powers), but over time they also tackle wrinkles, pimples and uneven skin tones.

For crazy busy women this skincare plus sunscreen plus makeup three-in-product is gold.

BB creams originated in Asia where women love using them for their lightening and brightening qualities. If you’re ever travelling to Asia, you’ll find BB creams in way greater strengths than what we see in Australia.

In Australia, I may have got all in a lather about the Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation mentioned above but it was the launch of BB Creams into our supermarkets that started off an obsession that is set to explode as more products hit the marketplace here this season.

That first supermarket brand was Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector – at under $15 (often as low as $9 when on special) – it’s quickly become a busy woman’s go-to cream.  This year there’s an oil-free version available.

Other brands – high and low end – have boarded the BB train since then and I’ve made it a personal mission to try as many as possible.

 Here are my current five favourites available in Australia:

 

 

 

1. Garnier BB Cream oil-free SPF 15 $13.99:  I prefer the matte finish of the oil-free formula than the original but that’s just me. Like the original, this one comes in Light or Medium shades. It “disappears” into your face on application so is a quick one you could easily apply on the go.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique BB Cream $26.95:  This one is a bit of a trickster. Its formulation is made up of miniscule beads that dissolve as you apply them to your face. Your face might look a little mask-like for a few seconds but then it camouflages any uneven skin tone beautifully to a matte finish. L’Oreal Paris has also released a Revitalift Total Repair 10 BB Cream but my money is still on the Nude Magique.

 

 

 

 

3. Catalina Geo Intensive BB Cream SPF 35+ $39.90:  I like this one for its fuller coverage and higher SPF. Its consistency is thicker and I do like its moisturising matte finish.  This is such good value for a quality salon-brand product. I’ve really enjoyed using it.

 

 

 

4. Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35 $60:  This the first makeup counter BB cream that I’ve trialled and it’s won me over. For starters, with five available shades if you’ve struggled to find a shade to suit your skin then this will help. And that SPF? Loving that. It’s a thinner formulation and gives more of a dewy finish but still offers great medium coverage.

 

 

 

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40 Responses to this article

  1. Emma September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I started using the original Garnier BB cream a few months ago and loved it. Now I’ve tried the new oil free formula I agree with you Nikki I like the matte finish, the oilier has a lovely texture as it goes on, but I found it slid off my face half way through the day.

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Yes, I’d agree witth that Emma … I usually pop a mineral powder over the top and this helps to prevent that. Also can top up mineral powder during the day if needed.

       
  2. Kerrie September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    These sound great! Do you think they would be suitable for skin with rosacea on the cheeks?

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Most definitely but I would look at the Jane Iredale and possibly a mineral powder on top if you’re wanting to cover. Also, if your rosacea is worsened due to sensitivity the mineral option would be better.

       
  3. Shepard September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I’ve found the brands in Australia, like the Garnier cream, tend to be way too ‘tinted’ for me – I’m pale and they make me look orange. I ordered one from South Korea instead – they’re huge there – and it’s amazing. The good brands are Skin79, Dr Jart, Etude House etc, but watch out for fakes when buying over the net.

    They do like whitening/brightening effects in their creams though, so if you prefer to look super tanned instead of pale, the Korean brands might not be for you (especially if you have naturally dark skin).

    I believe BB creams actually have anti-inflammatory features (or that’s what I’ve read). It’s worked really well for my skin so far. Just hoping they don’t find horrible side-effects from long-term use!

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      I bought a Dr Jart one when in the US recently and it’s definitely one of my faves – didn’t include here as it’s not available in Australia.

       
  4. Rachel September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    These sound fabulous! But I do have a question … do the ones with SPF use nanoparticles? I ask because many beauty products these days use titanium or zinc oxide nanoparticles for their sunscreen ingredient, and there’s been a bit a backlash against nanoparticles due to the damage it’s thought they may cause your body over time (here’s a link to a recent CHOICE article on the issue: http://bit.ly/uJIEaK) I’m no expert on the topic at all, but I think the main concern is that these nanoparticles are able to penetrate your skin and get into your system and cause damage on a cellular/DNA level … hmmm, I guess I’ll just have to go read the ingredients labels and find out.

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Yes, you’ll have to check each one, case by case. My skin actually reacts to zinc (not the nano particle kind) so I avoid that. Everyone has to make their own decisions about what they put on and in their bodies. Many don’t wear sunscreen at all but that’s not an option for me an my beach-loving pale skin!

       
  5. the*sparrow September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    They all sound marvellous, but I am curious to know how BB creams differ from foundations or tinted moisturisers (both with SPF)? I am happy to buy into the BB thing, but I have a bathroom cupboard cupboard full of foundations and tinted creams already!

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      The formulations act on the skin long term – not just the immediate cosmetic effect – so over time it helps to even out your complexion – that’s the difference!

       
  6. Tracey Hindmarsh September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    Have heard ther are now CC creams Nikki, which are like a big sister version of the BB cream. CC meaning Colour Correcting, what’s next DD?

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      LOL … no I hadn’t … wonder if they come with extra support ;)

       
  7. Louise Smithers September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    The only thing these creams are a boon for is the manufacturer’s pocket! You are a bunch of sheep! Bah………

     
    • Mrs Woog September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      No way! I love these creams. THe Garnier one is cheap and cheerful and has sunscreen in it. LOVE IT! Try it! x

       
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Each very much to their own. I like putting a face on most days and I’m ok with you if you don’t!

       
  8. justjane September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I have heard from two different experts that BB creams are really really bad for your skin long term.
    They contain an ingredient that bleaches your skin, so in the first few months your skin starts to look great but then over time, you will find that you will start to get lots of pigmentation spots due to the reaction of the ingredience and the sun.
    Please be very careful with these creams and do some research before jumping on the latest bandwagon invented by companies who just want to sell you a product for now and dont care about your long term health.

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      As with anything sold in Australia, they have to meet stringent guidelines to get on the market here in the first place. The ones sold in Asia are much more potent and possibly that’s why they’re not available here. I’ve been using at least the Garnier one for 12 months – pretty much every day and my skin is not any more sun sensitive than what it was. It’s clearer and brighter and that’s a win for me. What you put on your skin is an individual choice.

       
  9. Ann-Maree September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I’ve used the Garnier BB and really like it – I’m 50 and it does soften the look of my skin. My 15 yr old son recently had a professional headshot taken for acting and he was concerned about his acne showing up. I asked him to put some on and it evened out the look of his skin (of course it did not clear his pimples), gave a little camoflage and what was left was photoshopped anyway.

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Snap Ann-Maree … I’ve put my 15 year old on to it as her tinted moisturiser too. Also good that the Garnier one is an easy supermarket buy to keep her stocked up!

       
  10. Kate September 12, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I bought the Garnier original BB cream a few months back but didn’t like the smell of it and it seemed to make my skin breakout (and I am 50). I then read up on Beautypedia about the creams and basically if you can believe Beautypedia it is all a bit of a sham. Each to their own but best to be as informed as possible before believing some of the outlandish claims most cosmetic companies make. Us women are such suckers really.

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 12, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Yes claims can be marketing but I can only speak and write from personal experience as well as the experience of my readers on Styling You who love the Garnier BB Cream in particular. That has more weight for me than Beautypeadia! Having said that, not every skincare product or makeup product is meant for everyone. It is a case of trial and error and most will say if you experience a breakout then stop. This has happened frequently to me over my 14 years as a beauty writer – but I realise that just because I react doesn’t mean the next person will.

       
  11. mummaducka September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I love the Garnier normal one, not that keen on the il free, but it might win me in summer. But I can’t wait to get my hands on the Jane Iredale one. I use all the other JAne Iredale products and am really happy with them. I am pretty sure I will feel the same about the BB cream!

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      If you’re already a Jane Iredale fan you’ll definitely love this one – and you need SO little of it to achieve a full coverage the tube will last ages!

       
  12. Peta September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    Hi NIkki, I agree with Emma, I have been trialling the Garnier oil free after you talked about it on your blog and much prefer it to the original one. It just looks better for longer! I just had a question for you tho, as I have been telling my MIL about BB creams and she went to look at the garnier one, but read on the packet that thay are only really suited for people up to 50 and was hesitant to buy it thinking it wouldn’t work or look good on older skin. Do you know of older people wearing them, or of a product/brand that would suit 60-65+ yr olds? Thk U

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Mmm … that seems strange. I can’t see it doing any harm – I’m 45 so not that far off. She might find the original is more moisturising if her skin is drier. I’d honestly get her to give it a go for a week and see what she thinks.

       
  13. Peta September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    Oh, and does anyone know if you can buy the Bobbi Brown in Sydney yet?

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      It should be on Bobbi Brown makeup counters Peta – Myer and David Jones.

       
  14. Bonnie September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I have tried the Garnier and the Lumi Magique one and even the light shades are too orange for my very pale skin. I recently bought the Bobbi Brown one in the UK in Extra Light and it is perfect. But expensive. I am not sure I will be coughing up the $70-odd it costs here in NZ once this tube runs out – although I like it, it is not that different to my Revlon mousse foundation on my skin, and it is about $40. If the cheaper ones were a good option for me I might have stuck with them…sigh…

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      That is a tricky situation and it’s only worth the extra $ to you if you can see a real difference or benefit to your skin. I mentioned the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift BB Cream above … it might be worth a try to see how that shade sits on your skin. Unfortunately with the non-salon or makeup counter ones you don’t get to sample before buying though.

       
  15. Rachel from Redcliffe Style September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I have to try that BBBB (Bobbi Brown BB). Rachel x

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      You’re too funny Rach x

       
  16. moorie September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    i have been using the Nude BB cream and have had a few comments on how good my skin looks, just turned 60 so happy with that..might try the Garnier Oil Free on next..

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      And I’m very happy to hear that Moorie!

       
  17. Lisa September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I’m loving what the Skin79 one has done for my skin,it has helped with the dryness issues I was having and made my skin much more moisturised and you don’t need much of the product it goes a long long way and the SPF is an added bonus,I like the matte version better too,so just pop on a mineral foundation on top,and I am loving that with more use my skin will get even better!

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Love how you’ve found a solution for you, Lisa! Love it.

       
  18. Glamamuma September 13, 2012 Reply
     
     

    Hi Nikki I actually found my fav BB cream is Nude by Nature BB 5 in 1 Miraxle Cream, which I would never have tried if it wasn’t for your first post so thanks you!!

     
    • Nikki @ Styling You September 13, 2012 Reply
       
       

      Oh, I didn’t know they did one – thanks for the tip off – and you’re very welcome!

       
  19. Kylie @ Sunshine Coast Food September 15, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I THOUGHT this is what they were…and Yeah I am a cosmetic rock-hider (yeah pretty busy) so are we talking same thing as Clarins Beauty Flas – sounds like more foundation in them! Ta NP x

     
  20. Tracie September 16, 2012 Reply
     
     

    Garnier (L’Oreal) conduct animal testing on their products. Something to think about…

     
  21. sandee November 9, 2012 Reply
     
     

    I found out about BB creams and CC creams through this article: http://www.squidoo.com/what-are-bb-creams-and-cc-creams and was wondering how I could get my hands on something that you recommend?

     

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Comments

  • Nicole Madigan: Tara, this article is brilliant. Agree with every word.

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  • Katherine Basher: Santorini.....

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  • Jo: Very moving. Everyone I know who had done this has been touched by it.

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  • Michaela C: Wonderful. I always ask myself will someone die if I fuck up? Will it matter in 3 months? And who fucking cares? Wor...

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