Can you tell me about BB cream?

[WhereBeThatBlackbirdTo]

I'm just about to start a new job and I'd like to start wearing makeup again (after 11 years working at home where no-one can see me!)

The last time I used full-on warpaint regularly was years ago so I need a bit of help.

I have mineral powder for a base but have heard of BB cream - is this a magical base to use instead of foundation?

I have very pale skin and dark, greying hair, by the way

I used to use tinted moisturiser in summer and foundation in winter. now I use bb cream all year round. I couldn't really say what's good about it just that it works for me lol

Here's some info for pale skins:

snowwhiteandthepear.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/pale-girl-friendly-bb-cream-swatches-on.html

I haven't tried the western ones, but I understand they're a bit different and more like a light foundation than a proper Asian BB cream.

BB creams not only provide nice coverage, but they're nice and light, blendable and can even out any minor scars/blemishes/colouration. Some of them even fade scars, etc.

Don't worry if the packaging says 'whitening'. It won't lighten your skin, just even it out.

You can cross ref any you're interested in with reviews on makeupalley (very helpful place).

The Dr Jaart Premium BB cream is the one I use. I'm a doughy pale skinned Celt in my late 40s. It's very pale and quite moisturising and I love it. I often flick a very little Lily Lolo foundation in Candy Girl over it to set it.

I use the Missha brand. So far, I like it the best.

Garnier was orangey. Nivea was just awful. Skin79 wasn't bad but wasn't quite the right shade.

I'm really liking the Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream but have found that I have to use a primer or it is difficult to blend. If you decide to go with an Asian brand, make certain you buy from a reputable seller or you might end up with a fake.

I like Skin79 Oriental Gold (in the pink pot) and Lioele Beyond the Solution. I tried Triple Solution, but found it too thick for me (a lot of people like it though).

BTW, the Asian ones often have 30+ SPF.

I use Maybelline Dream Fresh which is 7.99 a tube, has SPF30, and I really like.

I have bought the light Botanics one for when this finishes, as I've heard good things about it.

I live in deepest darkest Somerset so I can only really shop at Boots or Superdrug.

Thanks for all your suggestions - it seems that BB cream is what I need. Yay - no more heavy foundation and powder from the old days!