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June 21, 2011 5:22 pm
As readers of this month’s WWD Beauty Inc are well aware, Asia is having a pretty big beauty moment. Brightening and softening lines from some of our favorite Asian brands like SK-II, AmorePacific, and Shu Uemura have already made their way into the mainstream stateside, but a new product loaded with Eastern promises is now arriving on our shores. We’re talking about Beauty Balms, a.k.a. Blemish Balms, a.k.a. BB Creams—one-step wonders that are basically tinted moisturizers on steroids. In addition to laying down the perfect amount of imperfection-hiding color, they act as a primer to smooth out any lines or wrinkles and as a serum with potent ingredients like abyssine, beta-glucan, and peptides to reverse the physical signs of aging—all in the guise of a high-performance hydrator. And if that weren’t enough, the emollient salves typically provide adequate protection from the sun as well, boasting titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that provide the perfect matte yet radiant finish. “Nowadays, the purpose of putting on makeup is not only for cosmetic reasons but also for preventing and protecting women’s skin from the negative effects of exposure to the polluted air,” Dr. Sung-Jae Jung, head of dermatology for Dr. Jart—one of the first brands to bring BB Cream to the U.S.—says of their appeal. “Asian women are very sensitive to skin tone and texture so they are fastidious in choosing cosmetics. But BB Cream is particularly suitable for the busy American,” Dr. Jung adds. Test the waters with four of the first arrivals.
MAC Prep + Prime Beauty Balm SPF 35
This super-sheer illuminating formula can be used alone as a tinted moisturizer or as a primer underneath foundation, if you need a little more coverage.
$30, www.maccosmetics.com.
Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++
The Asian import is packed with antioxidants, peptides, and adenosine to fight pollution and other environmental aggressors, while toning skin and fighting fine lines. And added does of arbutin promote radiance and even out skin tone.
$39, www.sephora.com.
Boscia BB Cream SPF 27 PA++
The oil-free formula helps keep skin matte and hydrated while providing long-wear coverage and fighting free-radicals.
$38, www.sephora.com.
Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35
Hollywood’s favorite brand is launching its own BB in July. Its major selling point is that while most BB creams are one shade fits all, this moisturizer comes in a range of four, from fair to dark. Get your pre-order on now.
$34.72, www.qvc.com.
tags: B.B. Cream, Boscia, Dr. Jart+, MAC Cosmetics, Makeup, Skincare, Smashbox
