The Lowdown on BB Creams

You’ve probably been hearing about BB creams every time you turn on the TV or open a beauty magazine these days. There has been a lot of hype about them, but also some confusion about what exactly a BB cream is and what they do. I thought I would break it all down for you and answer some of the most common questions people have about this new beauty phenomenon.

What exactly is a BB cream?

BB cream stands for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm”. These creams originated in Germany, where they were used by German dermatologists to help conceal and heal the skin after laser treatments.  Then, they gained huge popularity in the Asian market, where they have been used by women for years. Finally, they’ve made their way to the states. A BB cream is similar to a tinted moisturizer, but on steroids. It does all of the things a tinted moisturizer does, but it also has added benefits for the skin. This product is an all-in-one.  It’s a moisturizer, primer, SPF and foundation.  If you choose, this product can eliminate 3 steps from your beauty routine!

How will my skin benefit from using a BB cream?

BB creams contain anti-aging ingredients and soothing botanicals that moisturize and soothe the skin. They have SPF with UVA and UVB protection, so they block your skin from harmful rays that cause premature aging. They also contain antioxidants which help to protect the skin from free radicals. Brightening agents are also thrown in, which help to give the skin a luminous appearance. Some BB creams actually can help to treat acne and heal past scarring.

What type of coverage will I get from a BB cream?

BB creams give you slightly more coverage than you would achieve from a tinted moisturizer. You can apply a bit more in problem areas for more coverage. They are perfect for that easy-going summertime look because they give you natural, luminous coverage.

What skin types can wear BB creams?

Most BB creams are formulated for all skin types. It really is dependent upon how much coverage you want to achieve. Personally, I need and also prefer a bit more coverage, so this would be something I would wear to the pool or a casual day when I’m running errands. It would be perfect for someone who has minor skin imperfections. It really evens out the skin tone making the skin look absolutely flawless.

What are some BB creams you recommend?

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream, $39

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Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm, $32

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Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45, $39

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Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream, $13

Have you tried any BB creams? What did you think about them?

How Often Do You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?

** UPDATE: **

A pin is going around on Pinterest that says to soak your brushes for 20 minutes in vinegar. I do NOT suggest this. Unfortunately someone pinned this with the wrong information that came from a readers comment on this post. This could potentially damage your brushes. You do not want to use anything besides shampoo that is formulated for makeup brushes. I hope none of you have been misinformed. Please read and follow my method below. This is the best and safest route to clean those brushes of yours! The best of luck and happy cleaning!

Cleaning your makeup brushes is one of the most crucial, yet overlooked, tasks that should be done regularly. Cleaning your brushes is important for multiple reasons. First of all, brushes are an investment. It has taken me years to build up my brush collection and we all know they aren’t cheap. Quality makeup brushes can range in price from $5 to above $50. It’s important to take care of them because they should last you years, maybe even a lifetime if you take care of them properly. Another important reason your brushes need cleaned regularly is because they collect bacteria. If you’re prone to acne this is especially true. If you don’t clean your brushes you are only continuing to spread bad bacteria that can cause breakouts. And finally, if you’re not cleaning your brushes you will not get the optimum results from them. A brush packed full of makeup isn’t going to do the job it was designed to do. Here are the steps to take when cleaning your brushes.

1. Find a makeup brush shampoo. I’m currently using Well-Cared For Brush Conditioning Shampoo by Bare Escentuals. I absolutely love this product because it conditions your bristles and is free of skin-irritants. It also removes every last bit of makeup from your brush. For a budget-friendly option, use a mild baby shampoo such as Johnson’s Baby Shampoo. Next, add a quarter size amount of your shampoo to a cup of lukewarm water and swirl your brush around in the water for a few seconds. Be careful not to submerge the metal part (ferrule) of your brush into the water, which can loosen the glue of the brush.

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2. Rinse out your brushes with lukewarm water, squeeze out the excess water, and make sure they are smoothed out into their original form. Lay your brushes on a towel flat to dry overnight.

For some brushes, such as lip and eyeliner brushes, I will also clean them with alcohol and then shampoo them for extra cleanliness. Some people would tell you not to do this, but I like to make sure my brushes are extra clean. If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to shampoo your brushes, another great product to use is Quick Change also by Bare Escentuals. This is a very quick-drying cleansing spray that removes the pigment out of your brushes and sanitizes them. It leaves your brushes smelling great too! If you’re a makeup artist, it’s a great product to use in between clients.

Makeup brushes that are used for personal use should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks. Make sure to follow these steps and you’re on your way to clean, better performing brushes that will give you optimum application results. You might even see a difference in your skin too!

Do you clean your makeup brushes regularly?