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12 BEST BB CREAMS FOR OILY SKIN TO BUY

Does oily skin make you shy away from BB creams? Fret no more! BB creams can be your best friend, even with oily skin.  They offer the perfect combination of skincare and makeup, evening out your skin tone while providing hydration and sometimes even sun protection. But with so many options, finding the right one for your oily skin can be tricky. This guide will introduce you to the 12 best BB creams specifically formulated to combat shine and keep your complexion looking fresh all day long. So, get ready to ditch the shine and embrace the flawless, natural-looking coverage of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

OUR TOP PICKS

MISSHA M PERFECT COVER B.B CREAM SPF 42 PA+++ NO. 23

Can’t be missing a classic! The Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++ (in No. 23, Natural Beige) is a long-time favorite for oily skin types. This BB cream offers high coverage to even out skin tone and blemishes, while the lightweight formula controls shine and keeps you matte throughout the day.  It also boasts SPF 42 PA+++ for UVA and UVB protection, making it a great one-step solution for your morning routine.  Just be mindful that the shade No. 23 leans more neutral than yellow, so it might not be the best match for super fair or very warm skin tones.

ERBORIAN SUPER BB AU GINSENG NUDE

In a head-to-head battle for the best BB cream, Erborian emerged victorious.  It impressed with a stellar combination: a full-coverage formula that didn’t look cakey and a list of ingredients that went above and beyond.  This BB cream could easily replace your foundation, providing concealment while working wonders for your skin.  The formula is packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower for deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles blackheads and blemishes.  While an SPF boost would be ideal, this product truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it outperformed all the competition in our tests!

DR. JART+ BB PREMIUM BEAUTY BALM

Dr.Jart+ Premium BB Beauty Balm might be a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch. This BB cream offers light to medium coverage, evening out skin tone while still allowing your natural beauty to show through.  The cushiony-soft, creamy texture blends seamlessly for a natural finish.  While it doesn’t boast the highest SPF rating, it does offer sun protection (check the specific SPF on the product you’re considering, as Dr.Jart+ offers variations).  Like many BB creams, it also contains hydrating ingredients to keep your skin from feeling dry.  This BB cream is a good choice for oily skin types who want a natural-looking complexion with some coverage and a touch of hydration.

HOLIKA HOLIKA MOISTURIZING PETIT BB SPF 30 PA++

Oily skin still needs moisture! For those who prioritize keeping their skin hydrated, the Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream is a great choice. This K-Beauty favorite contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin for a dewy, healthy-looking finish. With nearly 4,000 five-star reviews on iHerb, customers rave about the BB cream’s natural, smooth finish and easy blending. As with any sunscreen product, always check the SPF label on the specific Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream you choose, and remember that sun protection is key. To ensure effective protection, avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply frequently as directed.

ESSENCE HYDRO HERO HYDRATING BB CREAM

Essence strikes again with a budget-friendly BB cream! At just £4, this option prioritizes makeup coverage over extensive skincare benefits.  While it offers fuller coverage than some other BB creams, it provides a more matte finish similar to a foundation.  This makes it a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, affordable foundation alternative.  Keep in mind that a little goes a long way with this product, and for the smoothest application, using a makeup brush or sponge is recommended.

TARTE BB TINTED TREATMENT

Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is like a two-in-one product that does both skincare and makeup jobs. It’s light and feels nice on your skin, acting as a moisturizer with a hint of color to even out your skin tone. Inside, there are good things for your skin like vitamin E, which keeps it healthy, and natural minerals that make your skin look smooth. When you put it on, it gives your skin a nice glow without feeling thick or heavy. It also has sun protection, which helps keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays when you wear it every day. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is great for people who want an easy way to make their skin look nice while also taking care of it.

LA ROCHE-POSAY UVIDEA XL BB CREAM SPF50

Ideal for oily skin types seeking high sun protection, La Roche-Posay’s Uvidea XL BB Cream SPF50+ offers a winning combination of skincare and makeup. This BB cream boasts a powerful SPF 50+ rating with PPD protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.  Its lightweight, oil-free formula helps control shine and mattify the complexion, while still providing buildable coverage to even out skin tone.  La Roche-Posay is a dermatologist-recommended brand, so you can be confident this BB cream is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.

MONAT BB CREAM

This Monat BB cream is on the pricier side compared to others. It has a thick and rich texture, making it feel very luxurious, especially because it’s super moisturizing with coconut alkanes, which are great for dry skin. You don’t need to use much of it because a little goes a long way. You can just dab it on with your fingers for a natural look without needing a mirror. It doesn’t cover up blemishes, dark circles, or redness completely, so you might still need concealer for those. Plus, it has SPF 30, which is great for protecting your skin from the sun. Overall, our tester really liked it and plans to keep it in their makeup bag for a while.

ERBORIAN GINSENG BB CRÈME

Erborian’s Ginseng BB Crème emerged as the top contender in our quest for the best BB cream. It impressed with a double threat: exceptional coverage without looking cakey and a superstar ingredient list. This BB cream seamlessly replaces foundation, offering camouflage while working wonders for your skin’s health. Packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower, it delivers deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles pesky blackheads and blemishes.  Although an SPF boost would be a plus, Erborian truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it surpassed all competitors in our tests!

NAPOLEON PERDIS BBB CREAM BEAUTY-BOOSTING BALM SPF 30

Napoleon Perdis’ BBB Cream Beauty-Boosting Balm SPF 30 caters to those who desire a touch of everything in their base product. This multi-tasking balm combines the benefits of a skin-perfecting foundation, a nourishing moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection.  It boasts a lightweight, creamy texture that blends seamlessly for a natural, radiant finish.  While offering sheer to light coverage, the BBB Cream helps to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.  For those with concerns about aging, the formula may include ingredients to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Napoleon Perdis is an Australian brand known for its high-quality cosmetics, so you can expect a luxurious feel and application.

GARNIER OIL-FREE PERFECTING CARE ALL-IN-ONE BB CREAM

If you have oily skin, you might have avoided using BB creams because they can make your skin look too shiny. But Garnier has a solution! Their BB cream is made especially for people with combination to oily skin. It goes on light and instantly evens out your skin tone while reducing shine. It won’t completely cover up dark circles or blemishes, so you might still need concealer for those. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated. However, if your skin is dry, it might make it look a bit thick, so it’s best for people with oily or combination skin.

L’OREAL PARIS AGE PERFECT BB CREAM SPF 50

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50 caters to mature skin types seeking a one-step solution for a flawless complexion. This BB cream combines hydrating coverage with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, making it ideal for daytime wear. The lightweight formula is designed to blend easily and avoid settling into fine lines, while offering buildable coverage to even out skin tone and imperfections.  It may also contain ingredients that address concerns specific to mature skin, such as age spots or loss of elasticity.  If you’re looking for a drugstore-friendly BB cream that provides sun protection, hydration, and a touch of coverage for mature skin, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect is a great option to consider.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A BB CREAM FOR OILY SKIN

When searching for the perfect BB cream for your oily skin, here are some key factors to consider:

Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula: This is crucial to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Look for these terms on the label to ensure the BB cream won’t add extra oil to your skin.

Mattifying properties: Choose a BB cream that contains ingredients like mattifying powders or clay to absorb excess oil and control shine throughout the day.

Lightweight texture: Opt for a lightweight, water-based BB cream that feels comfortable on your skin and won’t weigh it down. Thick, heavy formulas can exacerbate oiliness.

Coverage level:  Consider how much coverage you need. BB creams typically offer light to medium coverage, which is ideal for most oily skin types. If you need more coverage, look for a BB cream with buildable coverage so you can customize it to your needs.

SPF protection:  Sun protection is essential for everyone, regardless of skin type.  Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

Hydration:  While oily skin might seem like it doesn’t need hydration, that’s not quite true.  Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil to compensate. Choose a BB cream that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin balanced.

Ingredients:  For oily skin, it can be beneficial to look for BB creams with ingredients that target specific concerns like niacinamide to minimize pores and blemishes, or salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A BB CREAM?

ALL-IN-ONE CONVENIENCE

BB creams streamline your routine by combining multiple functions. They typically provide light to medium coverage to even out skin tone, often with built-in moisturizer and SPF protection. This saves time in the morning and reduces the number of products you need to apply.

HYDRATION AND NOURISHMENT

Many BB creams are formulated with hydrating ingredients to keep your skin plump and supple. Some may also contain additional skincare benefits like antioxidants to fight free radical damage or ingredients that target specific concerns like blemishes or redness.

NATURAL-LOOKING COVERAGE

Unlike heavy foundations, BB creams offer a more sheer, natural-looking veil of coverage. This is ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight feel or those with already good skin that just needs a little evening out.

SUN PROTECTION

Many BB creams include SPF protection, which is crucial for preventing sun damage and signs of premature aging. Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for daily use.

DO YOU NEED TO USE A PRIMER BEFORE BB CREAM?

You don’t necessarily need to use a primer especially primer before BB cream, but it depends on your goals and skin type. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Skip the primer if:

  • Your BB cream has built-in mattifying properties and your skin isn’t oily.
  • You prefer a lightweight, natural look and don’t need extra coverage or longevity.
  • You’re new to makeup or just starting with BB creams.

Consider a primer if:

  • Your skin is oily and you want to control shine throughout the day.
  • You have large pores or uneven texture you want to smooth out.
  • You need your BB cream to last longer, especially if you have combination or oily skin.
  • You’re using a BB cream for fuller coverage and want a flawless base.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO APPLY A BB CREAM?

Prep your skin: Cleanse and moisturize your face as usual. For oily skin, consider a mattifying moisturizer to further control shine. Let your moisturizer fully absorb before applying BB cream.

Less is more: Squeeze a dime-sized amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand or a makeup palette. This helps avoid using too much product, which can look cakey.

Dot and blend: Use your fingertips or a damp makeup sponge to apply the BB cream. Dab small dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently blend the dots outwards and upwards using tapping or stippling motions for a natural finish.

Build coverage:  If you need more coverage, apply another thin layer of BB cream, focusing on areas that need it most. Be careful not to overdo it, as BB creams are designed for a natural look.

Set it (optional):  For oily skin, you can set your BB cream with a translucent powder to control shine and extend wear time. Apply a light dusting of powder with a fluffy brush, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REMOVE A BB CREAM AT THE END OF THE DAY?

Even though BB creams are lighter than foundations, removing them properly is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Here’s the best way to remove BB cream at the end of the day:

  • Start with a gentle oil-based cleanser or makeup remover. BB creams often contain oils and silicones, and oil-based cleansers are more effective at dissolving them. Apply the cleanser to dry skin and massage gently in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
  • Emulsify and rinse. Add a little water to your face to create a milky emulsion, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  • Double cleanse for stubborn makeup or sunscreen. If you wear heavy makeup or a BB cream with high SPF, you may want to double cleanse. Follow the oil cleanser with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Pat your face dry with a clean towel and follow up with your usual skincare routine. This includes moisturizer and any other nighttime skincare products you use.

CONCLUSION

Oily skin can be tricky to manage, but finding the right primer or BB cream can be a game-changer! With its blend of makeup and skincare benefits, a BB cream can even out your skin tone, provide hydration, and even shield you from the sun – all while keeping shine under control. This guide explored 12 of the best BB creams formulated specifically for oily skin, offering a range of options from high-end splurges to drugstore favorites. We even covered some key factors to consider when making your choice. So, ditch the shine and embrace the natural, flawless look of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

What Is BB Cream & How to use it

If you’re someone who loves skincare and makeup products, then you must have heard about BB creams. BB cream stands for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm.” It is a versatile beauty product that has taken the beauty world by storm. 

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about BB cream. Scrolling down.

What Is BB Cream?

BB cream is a multi-functional cosmetic product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup. It is an all-in-one product that moisturizes, conceals, primes, and protects the skin from UV rays. The original concept of BB cream originated in Germany in the 1960s, but it gained popularity in South Korea in the 2000s. Since then, BB creams have become an essential part of skincare and makeup routines worldwide.

BB creams come in different shades and formulas to match various skin types and concerns. They are lightweight, easy to apply, and blend smoothly onto the skin. Unlike traditional foundation, BB cream provides light to medium coverage without clogging pores or feeling heavy on the skin.

Benefits of bb cream

BB creams provide a light and natural coverage, perfect for those looking to even out their skin tone and conceal minor imperfections without the heaviness. Additionally, they often contain moisturizing ingredients, antioxidants, and sun protection, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a daily skincare and makeup solution. The lightweight and breathable formula of BB creams ensures that your skin remains comfortable and well-hydrated throughout the day, making them suitable for various skin types.

Beyond their cosmetic benefits, BB creams also offer protection against harmful UV rays, which is crucial for preventing sun damage, premature aging, and maintaining healthy skin. 

According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City: “BB creams can be a good way to get a quick and easy makeup routine that still provides some skin benefits.” Actually, the convenience of having a primer, foundation, sunscreen, and skincare all in one product makes BB cream an essential addition to many makeup routines, whether you’re going for a natural, “no-makeup” look or building up a more elaborate makeup style. 

How To Apply BB Cream Like A Professional Makeup Artist

Applying BB cream like a professional makeup artist requires a few key steps and techniques to achieve a flawless and natural-looking finish. BB cream, which stands for “blemish balm” or “beauty balm,” is a versatile product that combines skincare benefits with light coverage. Here’s how to apply it like a pro:

Step1: Start with a Clean Canvas

Begin by cleansing your face to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup residues. Follow with your regular skincare routine, including moisturizer and sunscreen.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

  • You’ll need your BB cream, a makeup sponge or brush (depending on your preference), and possibly a primer if you prefer to use one. 
  • Select a BB cream shade that matches your skin tone or is just slightly lighter. It’s essential to find the right shade for a natural look.

Step 3: Apply a Primer (Optional)

If you have large pores or want to extend the wear of your BB cream, apply a primer before the BB cream. This can help create a smoother surface for makeup application.

Step 4: Dispense a Small Amount

Squeeze a small amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand or onto a makeup palette. You can always add more if needed.

Step 5: Dot and Blend

Use your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush to dot the BB cream evenly across your face, focusing on areas where you need coverage the most (typically the center of the face). Avoid using too much product; it’s easier to add more if necessary.

Step 6: Blend Gently

Blend the BB cream into your skin using gentle, outward motions. You can use a damp makeup sponge for a sheer, natural finish or a foundation brush for slightly more coverage. Blend well into the hairline, jawline, and neck to avoid harsh lines.

Step 7: Layer if Needed

If you desire more coverage in specific areas, you can layer the BB cream by adding a small amount to those areas and blending it in.

Step 8: Conceal Blemishes

Use a concealer to cover any remaining blemishes or imperfections if needed. Dab the concealer on and blend it into the skin.

Step 9: Finish with Other Makeup (Optional)

  • If you have oily skin or want to enhance the longevity of your BB cream, you can set it with a light, translucent setting powder. Apply sparingly to avoid a heavy, cakey look.
  • You can finish your makeup routine with other products like blush, bronzer, mascara, and lipstick, depending on your preference and the level of coverage you desire.

BB cream can be used as a standalone product or as a base for other makeup products like concealer, powder, or blush. It is perfect for those who want a natural, no-makeup look or for busy individuals who don’t have time for an extensive beauty routine.

BB Cream Vs. Foundation

Coverage

Foundation provides higher coverage than BB cream. It is suitable for those who want to cover severe blemishes, scars, or pigmentation. BB cream, on the other hand, provides light to medium coverage and is best for those who want a natural, everyday look.

Finish

Foundation has a more matte or dewy finish, depending on the formula. It is ideal for those who want a flawless, airbrushed look. BB cream has a more natural finish that enhances the skin’s texture and glow.

Formula

Foundation formulas are thicker and heavier than BB cream. They require more effort to blend and may clog pores or cause breakouts. BB cream formulas are lightweight, comfortable to wear, and suitable for all skin types.

Sun Protection

Most BB creams contain SPF protection that shields the skin from harmful UV rays. Foundations may or may not have SPF, and you need to apply sunscreen separately.

Overall, BB cream is a more versatile and convenient option than foundation, especially for those who prefer a minimalistic approach to beauty.

BB cream vs. cc cream

BB cream provides a balanced blend of light coverage, hydration, and sun protection, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a natural, everyday look with added skincare benefits. CC cream, on the other hand, focuses on color correction and complexion improvement, offering more coverage and targeted solutions for issues like redness or uneven skin tone. 

Choosing between them depends on your desired level of coverage and specific skincare concerns, with BB cream perfect for a fresh and effortless appearance and CC cream tailored to those seeking to address color-related imperfections while enjoying the advantages of skincare ingredients.

FAQ

  1. Can I use BB cream as a moisturizer? BB cream contains moisturizing ingredients that hydrate the skin, but it cannot replace a dedicated moisturizer. If you have dry skin, apply a moisturizer before using BB cream for optimal hydration.
  2. Is BB cream suitable for oily skin? Yes, BB cream is suitable for oily skin as it has a lightweight formula that doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts. Look for oil-free or mattifying formulas that control shine and provide a natural finish.
  3. Can I wear BB cream to the gym? It’s not recommended to wear BB cream to the gym as it can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Instead, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides sun protection without interfering with your workout.
  4. How often should I reapply BB cream? If you spend considerable time outdoors, it’s recommended to reapply BB cream every two hours to maintain its SPF protection. However, if you’re indoors, you can wear BB cream for up to eight hours without touching up.
  5. Can BB cream replace my foundation? It depends on your desired coverage level and skin type. If you want high coverage or have severe blemishes, foundation might be a better option. In case you prefer a natural, everyday look, BB cream can replace your foundation.

Final Takeaway

BB cream is a versatile beauty product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup. It provides light to medium coverage, hydrates the skin, and protects from UV rays. Whether you’re a busy individual who wants a quick beauty routine or someone who loves minimalistic looks, BB cream is an excellent addition to your makeup bag. With this guide, we hope you now know everything about BB cream and can make an informed decision when choosing one for yourself.