Are BB and CC creams really the revolutionary new products the beauty-conscious have been yearning for?
These hybrid products, with claims of sweeping functions crossing the line between makeup and skincare, however, may fall far short of the expectations of their users.
This cautionary advice was raised in a Consumer Council study on BB and CC creams which stand for "Blemish Balm or Beauty Balm" and "Colour Correction or Colour Control" respectively.
The claims made by their manufacturers include notably sun protection and moisturizing effect in addition to improving uneven skin tone. In short, a one-step solution to your cosmetic and skincare needs.
But the results of a recent test undertaken by the International Consumer Research and Testing (ICRT) were at variance with some of their claims. Highlights of the test results on 31 models of BB and CC creams:
- Hydration: The samples were measured against an ordinary moisturizer for control comparison. Only one product performed better while the rest were either on par with (18 samples) or below par of (12 samples) the control sample. It is doubtful BB and CC creams can always provide good level of skin moisturization.
- Protection against UVB which may cause skin reddening and sunburn: Among the 29 models tested in comparison with their claimed SPF values, 17 were found to perform better than claimed. The remainders were below their SPF claims - 7 samples by a discrepancy of more than 17% (varied from 23% to about 86%) while 5 by a smaller discrepancy.
- Protection against UVA which may darken skin, cause pigment, wrinkles and premature skin aging: 14 models were deemed capable of providing a good level of UVA protection while 12 models failed to offer even the minimal UVA protection.
The samples in this ICRT test are available mainly to consumers in the European market and not locally in Hong Kong. But the test results should provide useful reference for information of consumers.
Consumers should realize that BB/CC creams cannot be used to replace moisturizers. Before application of these beauty cream products, routine skincare procedures cannot be skipped, including face cleansing and the use of moisturizer. Thorough cleansing after use is recommended to avoid clogging the pores.
Further, it is not advisable to replace sunscreen products with BB/CC creams. UV protection provided by the products would be ineffective if you have only applied a thin layer for sheer makeup effect. Application of sunscreen products before wearing makeup would help to assure a better UV protection.
Some consumer advice for the beauty-conscious:
- Choose products with both UVA and UVB protection. Beware of some chemical UV filters that may cause sensitive reactions to some consumers.
- Consider the choice of products that most suit your skin type and skin tone and the level of coverage the products are able to provide on blemishes and the like.
- Choose appropriate face cleansers (e.g. makeup remover) for rinsing off the products.
- Do not wear makeup or if needed wear only light makeup and shorten the time wearing it should there be open wounds on the face.
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