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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter.

 

Who wouldn’t want a magic skin-perfecting makeup? Makeup lines have capitalized on this desire and have invented a new product, best known as “BB Cream” (stands for Beauty Balm).  Dermatologists originally created this product many years ago for patients who had undergone laser skin surgery.  These creams are known for having moisturizing properties, SPF protection, sheer coverage, as well as skin-benefitting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.  They are comparable to tinted moisturizers, but are supposed to provide more nourishment because of their unique ingredients.  They can be worn alone, or as a primer for your foundation, which adds a little more coverage.

The cream gained popularity in the 1980s in South Korea and Japan, and was thought to be the perfect skin secret of many actresses.  Before BB cream came to Western markets, many people bought Asian BB creams like Skin 79. It is such an intriguing product, and I think that’s why it is so popular. 

Western markets realized how BB cream could benefit them and began creating a North American version of this all-in-one miracle product. In the drugstore, just about every brand has a BB cream.  What is interesting is that all of the brands market their products by claiming that the BB cream is an “8-in-1 skin perfector,” a “magic skin beautifier” or a “super makeup.” These fantastic claims don’t hold up, but no one seems to mind. 

I use Garnier’s BB cream and I really enjoy it. Although I have not noticed any radical skin improvements, I love it because it is so easy to use. It is a perfect product for an on-the-go college girl because it can be applied with your fingers and BAM! You’re ready for class. By simply evening out skin tone and adding radiance to the complexion, this product has caught the beauty community by storm. 

I am a junior at JMU studying Media Arts & Design- Corporate Communication. I am a member of Phi Mu Fraternity in addition to Her Campus! I was born in Troy, OH and grew up in both Kings Mountain, NC and Richmond, VA. I am the oldest child, the only blonde in my immediate family, and the only one who has 20/20 vision.