Although Korea is often credited as the leader of the blemish balm (BB cream) trend, that is hardly the case. Put simply, BB cream is tinted moisturizer that boasts other benefits such as UV-ray protection, acne and oil control. It is the beauty god’s gift to the lazy girl. While the popularity of Korean BB cream has skyrocketed over the last year or so, tinted moisturizer, I’m sorry to say, is nothing new. Nor is its use limited to Korea! As a fan of BB cream, I can confidently say that I’ve been around the international block.

My Skin 411: Super oily, super problematic, yellow-toned skin. (I’m Filipino American if this helps.)

Cellabel Time Perfection Recovery Balm
Country: Korea
Tells You: “Multipurpose skin cover balm, anti-blemish and natural skin color, for all skin types.
In Reality: Cellabel BB cream isn’t meant for all colors of the human rainbow. Application comes on REALLY white and adjusts to skin tone gradually throughout the day. People with darker skin may be impatient to find that it takes a really long time for Cellabel to adjust. It does promise moisture and oil control. As a result, I don’t break out as much. In addition, I love that the coverage is layer-able, so it can be used as a quick concealer.

Something that would make this product great is if it was cheaper. It retails at around $70!

Benefit You Rebel
Country: US
Tells You: “All-in-one tinted moisturizer that gives your complexion coverage, moisture, and SPF protection.”
In Reality: I found this coverage to be heavy and foundation-like. While it does moisturize, I wouldn’t recommend it for people with oily skin. I found that it made my face even oily-er. Overall, it was too thick for my liking. I felt like I was definitely wearing something on my face.

Dr. Schrammek’s Blemish Balm
Country: Germany
Tells You: “Special skin care preparation for irritated, red, blemished skin with enlarged pores. Its soothing, masking, antimicrobial properties alleviate redness and irritation and promote a return to normal skin function.”
In Reality: Dr. Schrammek’s BB cream is allegedly the first cream on the market. It was originally developed for patients recovering from Dr. Schrammek’s chemical peel treatments. Don’t let the description fool you, it doesn’t solve your genetic problem of enlarged pores, just minimizes the appearance of them. For being the original, it’s a good product that is made in shades suitable for all skin colors. It has all the same properties that Cellabel has, minus the wait for it to adjust to your natural skin color. My only issue with it is, you’re not given much for how much you pay. It retails around $99.00!

Overall, Cellabel works best for me in both price and function.

Anyone use BB cream? Share your experiences!