· top products · 17 min read

Perfect Skin in a Bottle - 10 Best Drugstore BB Creams for Flawless Finish and Affordability

Drugstore BB creams have become a staple in many makeup routines, offering a combination of skin care and makeup benefits. In this roundup, we’re diving into the best drugstore options available today. From full coverage to lightweight options, these BB creams are sure to provide the perfect match for your skin tone while also providing essential skincare benefits. Let’s explore the top picks in the market and help you find the perfect one for your needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate, we receive compensation through qualifying purchases

Reviews

Physicians Formula Super BB All-in-1 Beauty Balm, Light/Medium

physicians-formula-super-bb-all-in-1-beauty-balm-cream-spf-30-light-medium-1-2-fl-oz-bottle-1

Physicians Formula Super BB All-in-1 Beauty Balm Cream is an impressive all-in-one product that caters to various skin types. It offers a lightweight, non-caky formula that boasts hydration and SPF 30 protection, making it a perfect choice for sunny days.

Despite its limited shade selection, it has been praised for its even application, good coverage, and natural finish. Users have also appreciated its ease of removal and long-lasting effect.

However, a few negative aspects mentioned include creasing and cakiness in some instances. Overall, this is an affordable and effective BB cream option that combines multiple beauty benefits in one package.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar BB Blur - Lightweight Blemish Coverage for Oily Skin

la-roche-posay-effaclar-bb-blur-fair-light-1-01-oz-total-1

I recently started using the La Roche-Posay Effaclar BB Blur in the fair/light shade and I must say, it’s been a game-changer for me. As someone with oily skin, I’ve struggled to find a BB cream that provides good coverage and lasts all day. This product, however, has checked all the boxes for me. It blends seamlessly onto my skin, leaving a matte finish that lasts for hours. I also appreciate that it doesn’t clog my pores or make my skin feel greasy.

One of the highlights of this BB cream for me is its smoothing effect on my skin. The airlicium technology in the formula works wonders by absorbing oil and shine while also optically smoothing my skin, making it look more even and refined. The lightweight texture of the product is another plus, as it feels breathable and not heavy on my face.

The drawback I found with this product is the limited shade selection. The fair/light shade I purchased was a bit too dark for my skin, and I couldn’t find a better match in the range. This made it a bit challenging to find the perfect color for my complexion. Additionally, while the product does provide good coverage, I noticed a bit of cakiness when I applied too much.

Overall, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar BB Blur has been a great addition to my skincare routine. Its oil-absorbing properties, matte finish, and lightweight texture make it a winner for those with oily skin like me. Just be sure to select the right shade for your skin tone, and you’ll be good to go!

Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream: 120 Medium Skin Perfector

maybelline-dream-fresh-bb-cream-8-in-1-skin-perfector-120-medium-1-fl-oz-tube-1

The Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream 8-in-1 Skin Perfector is an impressive find for those wanting a lightweight, easy-to-apply and remove makeup solution. With its SPF 30, the product effortlessly corrects imperfections, leaves skin looking fresh and provides hydration.

Available in a wide range of shades, it works well for normal skin types. Some users have noted minor issues with creasing and coverage, but overall, this drugstore BB cream is a must-try for its affordable, attractive, and long-lasting effect.

All-in-One High-Definition BB Cream by L.A. Girl Pro - Medium

l-a-girl-pro-bb-cream-medium-1-fl-oz-tube-1

This L. A. Girl PRO. BB Cream is a versatile product that simplifies your skincare and makeup routine with its all-in-one features. Designed for all skin types, it effectively primes, moisturizes, and enhances your skin tone, resulting in that desired dewy look. The cream contains essential vitamins B3, C, and E to nourish your skin. Its fragrance-free formula caters to those with sensitive skin and is cruelty-free. With different shades, the cream offers a wide range of options for people of varying skin tones.

Users love its ease of application and natural look. However, some mention that it may be too oily for those with oilier skin or that its medium coverage might be a bit too much for those who prefer a more natural look. Nonetheless, the product is praised for its buildable coverage and the way it feels light on the skin.

Burt’s Bees BB Cream with Noni Extract - Light, Broad Spectrum SPF 15

burts-bees-bb-cream-with-noni-extract-light-broad-spectrum-spf-15-1-7-oz-1

I recently tried Burt’s Bees BB Cream with SPF 15 in Light/Medium, a versatile product that combines makeup and moisturizer in a lightweight formula. One of the unique features of this cream is the essence of the noni plant, which is rich in antioxidants and moisturizing properties, making it a great choice for someone with sensitive skin. While I was initially skeptical about the applicability of this BB cream due to its pale shade, I found that it blended easily and evenly on my face.

Apart from the ease of use, the BB cream also provided me with a lightweight coverage and a natural glow, which made my skin look smoother and more even. It was perfect for days when I needed a quick touch-up without looking too made-up. Moreover, the cream’s moisturizing properties kept my skin hydrated and glowing all day long.

However, a downside of this BB cream is the limited shade selection. I wished there was a lighter shade available to match my fair skin tone more accurately. The product’s herbal scent was also noticeable at first, but it faded quickly and didn’t bother me too much.

Overall, I enjoyed using the Burt’s Bees BB Cream with SPF 15 in Light/Medium for its ease of use, natural glow, and moisturizing properties. Despite the downsides, I would say it’s worth a try, especially for someone who values natural skincare products.

Maybelline Dream Pure BB Cream: Paraben-free and Oil-free for Clearer Skin

maybelline-dream-pure-bb-cream-1-fl-oz-1

When I first picked up Maybelline’s Dream Pure BB Cream, I had high expectations as a BB cream enthusiast. After weeks of using this product daily, I must say it has been a mixed bag with some positives and a few disappointments.

I was impressed by the formula’s hydrating qualities and the noticeable improvement in my skin’s health. My skin looked more radiant and had a natural glow. The oil-free formula helped to even out my complexion with a barely-there coverage, perfect for those days when I didn’t want a heavy foundation. It’s lightweight, quick to blend, and has a natural-looking finish that blends seamlessly with my skin tone.

However, the product’s longevity wasn’t as impressive. It didn’t last the entire day without needing a touch-up, and my oily skin tended to cause the BB cream to break down and accumulate in my pores, giving a cakey appearance. Additionally, cleaning it off at the end of the day wasn’t much easier than other products, as some stubborn residue remained on my skin.

Despite the occasional issues, Maybelline’s Dream Pure BB Cream has worked well for me as a tinted moisturizer on the days when I wanted a lighter coverage look. While it’s not the perfect BB cream for me, it’s certainly a reliable option for those seeking a hydrating and lightweight product for daily use.

Nivea Bb Cream: Blemish Balm for Medium to Dark Skin Tones

nivea-bb-cream-blemish-balm-medium-to-dark-50-ml-1

With a rating of 4.0 and an overwhelming number of positive reviews, Nivea’s BB Cream is a crowd-pleaser that delivers on its promises. This dermatologically approved 5-in-1 cream provides a combination of hydration, illumination, and blemish control, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight coverage option tailored to their skin tone.

The BB Cream is formulated to provide an even skin tone and refine pores, all while offering 24-hour hydration. It is suitable for medium to dark skin types, thanks to its fine micro-color pigments and ingredients like sunflower, evening primrose seed, and vitamin E. Containing minerals and provitamin B5, this formula also optimizes the skin’s ability to absorb and retain moisture.

This cream is perfect for everyday use as it acts as a day cream, covering blemishes, tired skin, and dark eye circles. It evens out your complexion, illuminates, moisturizes, and even offers sun protection with an SPF of 15. The non-greasy formula makes it easy to blend and apply, ensuring it lasts throughout the day with minimal creasing or settling into fine lines.

While its blendability and lightweight feel are winning points for many users, some customers have pointed out limitations in shade selection and the potential for the cream to crease over time. Overall, Nivea’s BB Cream is a well-regarded product that offers an alluring blend of coverage, protection, and hydration for those who prefer a more natural-looking makeup option.

Maybelline Dream Fresh 8-in-1 Skin Perfector Bb Cream, Light

maybelline-dream-fresh-8-in-1-skin-perfector-bb-cream-light-1-fl-oz-1

I recently tried out Maybelline’s Dream Fresh 8 in 1 Skin Perfector BB Cream, and it’s safe to say that it’s become my go-to for everyday coverage. This lightweight BB cream provides a natural, flawless finish to my skin, thanks to its sheer coverage and easy blending. I love that it’s perfect for all skin types and offers 8 different skin benefits like hydration, protection, and brightening.

What really stood out to me about this BB cream is how it feels on my skin. It’s oil-free, so it doesn’t weigh me down or leave me feeling greasy. In fact, it actually helps hydrate my skin, making it look refreshed and healthy. I also appreciate that it comes with a broad spectrum SPF 30, which helps protect my skin from the sun’s harsh rays.

One thing I noticed about this BB cream is that it applies smoothly and evenly, which is a huge plus for someone who often struggles with caking or creasing. It’s also very easy to remove at the end of the day, which is a nice change from some heavier foundations I’ve tried in the past.

While I did find the shade selection to be somewhat limited, I was able to find a match that worked well for my skin tone. The only downside I encountered was that the cream did seem to settle into the lines and wrinkles on my face, which is something I’ll keep an eye on moving forward.

Overall, I’m really happy with my experience using Maybelline’s Dream Fresh BB Cream. It provides the perfect balance of coverage and skincare benefits, and I’ll definitely be reaching for it again the next time I want a natural, fresh-faced look.

Magic Skin Beautifier Bb Cream by L’Oreal Paris

loreal-paris-magic-skin-beautifier-bb-cream-medium-1-fl-oz-1[

L’Oreal Paris Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream is a multitasking product that enhances skin’s flawlessness in six dimensions.](https://gist.github.com/bestalternativereviews10/ea02d3e33a63c4331131c284d10b64c4) This lightweight cream, containing vitamins C and E, boasts a flawless bare skin finish while priming, correcting, hydrating, and perfecting the complexion.

With its blendable consistency, it is easy to apply and suitable for various makeup routines. Although it may have limited shade selection, users have found this product to be long-lasting and gentle on the skin, providing good coverage. However, some may experience issues with caking or creasing, making it better suited for those with a specific undertone and season.

Overall, the L’Oreal Paris Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream is a popular choice for those seeking a lightweight and versatile makeup option.

Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Tinted Moisturizer - Rich in Antioxidants

burts-bees-goodness-glows-tinted-moisturizer-rich-in-antioxidants-buff-1-0-ounce-1

I recently gave Burts Bees Goodness Glows Tinted Moisturizer a try, and I must say I’m quite impressed with the results. As someone with combination skin, I was initially skeptical about how this tinted moisturizer would perform. However, my fears were soon put to rest as the formula proved to be quite nourishing on my skin. What stood out most was its coverage - it’s subtle yet effective, ensuring an even complexion without feeling too heavy.

The natural, lightweight finish of the product has been a hit, too. I often find tinted moisturizers can feel quite chalky and heavy on the skin, but that wasn’t an issue here. Instead, Burts Bees Goodness Glows offers a pleasantly seamless blend with my skin that leaves me feeling confident and looking radiant. Its non-greasy formula is also a plus, as it reduces the chance of visible shine or breakthrough throughout the day.

While there’s no denying that the scent isn’t the most appealing (some users noted a potent, unappealing fragrance), I managed to get past that. And, hey, if you’ve got a nose for products like this one, it might not bother you either.

What did stand out for me is the product’s longevity. I was amazed at how it stayed put from morning to evening, without smudging or creasing. It even managed to offer some level of protection against the sun’s rays, which is always a bonus.

All in all, I would say Burts Bees Goodness Glows Tinted Moisturizer is a refreshing, natural option for those who appreciate a ‘glow-from-within’ look. It’s lightweight, offers a decent blend of coverage, and leaves a lasting impression on the skin. And despite the occasional scent issue, it’s a small price to pay for how the product performs overall.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our Buyer’s Guide for Drugstore BB Creams. This section will help you understand the crucial factors to consider when shopping for a drugstore BB cream. We have put together general advice, important features, and helpful tips to ensure you make a well-informed purchase. Remember, we’ll be discussing the product category as a whole and not mentioning specific product picks or external resources. Let’s get started!

What is a Drugstore BB Cream?

A Drugstore BB Cream, or Blemish Balm Cream, is a versatile skincare and makeup product designed to even out skin tone, cover imperfections, and provide sun protection. It combines the benefits of a foundation, concealer, moisturizer, and sunscreen in a single affordable step. The primary function of a BB cream is to improve skin’s complexion while offering light-medium coverage.

Considerations

When shopping for a drugstore BB cream, take into account the following factors to ensure the product meets your needs and preferences. These considerations include skin type, shade range, coverage, sun protection, and skincare benefits. By focusing on the factors crucial to your unique beauty routine, you’ll find a BB cream that works well for you.

Skin Type

Drugstore BB creams come in various formulas tailored to different skin types. Determine your skin type and choose a BB cream that suits it. Most BB creams are suitable for combination or oily skin types, but you can find matte or moisture-rich versions that cater to dry or normal skin types. If you have sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options to avoid irritation.

Shade Range

It’s essential to choose a BB cream that matches your skin tone to achieve a natural-looking finish. Make sure the shade range of the drugstore BB cream you’re considering is extensive enough to accommodate your skin tone. Generally, drugstore BB creams offer a broader selection of shades compared to luxury brands.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using BB Cream?

BB Cream, also known as Blemish Balm Cream, is a multi-functional beauty product that offers various benefits. It helps to even out skin tone, conceal imperfections, and provide a natural-looking glow. Often, BB Creams also contain SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Additionally, they can be used as a moisturizer, making them a convenient all-in-one solution for your morning skincare routine.

BB Creams are suitable for all skin types and are especially popular among those who prefer a light coverage look. They are perfect for everyday wear and can be layered for a more intense finish when needed. Overall, BB Creams are a versatile and practical choice for anyone looking to streamline their skincare routine while achieving a flawless, natural-looking complexion.

What is the difference between BB Cream and CC Cream?

BB Cream and CC Cream are both multi-functional skincare products, but they have some key differences. BB Cream, or Blemish Balm, is designed to correct and conceal skin imperfections while providing sun protection. Its main focus is on evening out the skin tone, providing hydration, and offering light coverage.

CC Cream, or Color Correcting Cream, on the other hand, is formulated to address specific skin concerns such as redness, sallowness, and dark spots. It usually contains multiple pigments that work together to neutralize and correct the skin’s discoloration. CC Creams can offer more coverage than BB Creams and may not always have sun protection. In summary, while both BB and CC Creams serve as all-in-one skincare products, they have different focuses and ingredients to cater to specific skin concerns.

How do I choose the right shade of BB Cream?

When selecting the right shade of BB Cream, it is essential to consider your skin tone and undertone. Most BB Creams come in a range of shades, so it’s best to test a few options to find the best match for your skin. To determine your undertone, use the following guidelines: if you tan easily and have a golden undertone, you probably have a warm undertone. If you burn easily and have a pinkish or Rosy undertone, you likely have a cool undertone. Some BB Creams have a color-matching system, while others rely on swatches. Always remember that a slightly off-shade BB Cream can be blended and buffed into your skin, so don’t be too concerned about finding the exact match.

When testing, apply a small amount of BB Cream to the inside of your wrist or the back of your hand. Check for the best color match and, if necessary, blend it with a small amount of foundation or concealer to achieve the desired color. To ensure longevity, choose a BB Cream that stays put and doesn’t crease or oxidize throughout the day. Ultimately, the right shade will depend on your preferences and the specific BB Cream you select.

Are there any drugstore BB Creams that offer high SPF protection?

Yes, there are several drugstore BB Creams that offer high SPF protection. Many BB Creams now contain SPF 30 or higher, providing ample sun protection. If you’re looking for a BB Cream with an even higher SPF, consider options like L’Oreal Paris Ideal Moisture BB Cream SPF 30 or Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum BB Cream SPF 30.

When choosing a BB Cream with high SPF, ensure that it offers adequate sun protection without leaving a greasy or heavy finish on your skin. Look for formulas that are lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic to prevent clogging pores and ensure a smooth, natural-looking application. Remember to apply sunscreen separately if you need additional protection or if your BB Cream’s SPF is not sufficient for extended sun exposure.

Can I use BB Cream as a foundation replacement?

While BB Creams offer more coverage than some tinted moisturizers, they might not provide the same level of coverage as a foundation. However, you can still achieve a natural, flawless look by using BB Cream as a foundation alternative. To enhance the coverage and color, you can mix the BB Cream with a small amount of foundation or concealer that matches your skin tone. If you desire a fuller coverage look, use a BB Cream that offers a higher medium or full coverage option.

Additionally, you can layer your BB Cream with other skincare products such as a tinted lip balm, a facial oil, or a cream blush for a more natural, multidimensional finish. Remember that the key to achieving the desired look is to experiment with different application methods and product combinations to find your perfect BB Cream routine.

What are some drugstore brands that offer BB Cream?

There are several drugstore brands that offer BB Creams, providing a variety of options for different skin types and preferences. Some popular drugstore brands that offer BB Creams include L’Oreal Paris, Maybelline, Revlon, Rimmel, and Covergirl. Most of these brands provide a range of shades, finishes, and SPF levels to cater to different skin needs. When selecting a BB Cream, consider factors such as your skin type, desired coverage, and preferences for SPF and other ingredients.

Additionally, drugstore brands often release limited edition or seasonal BB Creams. Keep an eye out for these offerings to try new shades and finishes or to find a BB Cream that suits your current skincare routine. Don’t forget to check reviews and product descriptions to find the best BB Cream for your needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate, we receive compensation through qualifying purchases

    Share:
    Back to Blog