The wonders of BB cream

While BB creams gained its popularity in Japan and South Korea, the origins of it can actually be traced back to Germany, where dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek is credited for creating the first ever BB cream. BB also known as "Blemish Balm" contained ingredients such as bisabolol and panthenol, which was known to help treat redness and soothe skin in post-operative patients. Its lightweight texture became a hit in Japan and South Korea where the women preferred their makeup base to be lightweight and invisible. Of course, it also helped that the cream provided skin-enhancing, healing benefits while covering imperfections.

Today, BB cream has reached cult status among beauty junkies everywhere, garnering raves and accolades from teenagers, mature women, celebrities and yes, even men (male K-pop stars are fans of BB cream and some are even endorsers of certain brands).

We asked makeup artist Jigs Mayuga to deliver the real skinny on BB creams and how you too can use its almost-magical abilities to bring your best face forward. Jigs swears by Pond's BB Cream and keeps several tubes in his professional makeup kit. "I use it as a standalone product for women with great skin that need minimum coverage. I also use it as a makeup base underneath foundation since it makes the foundation adhere better to the skin."

Works with any skin type
BB cream works well with any skin type. It's only a matter of finding the right formulation and tone that suits you. If you're out in the sun a lot, make sure to look for formulas that contain SPF. Make your BB cream work overtime for you by looking for a formula that also contains lightening properties so your base can help give your brightening beauty regimen an added boost.

Because of its lightweight coverage, BB cream can actually be used by men, just make sure the shade is right (so no sharing with your girlfriend/sister/mom if the two of you are shades apart!).

Find the shade that suits you
Since BB cream is tinted, it's also important to look for a shade that suits you best. Try a swatch of cream on your jawline and blend it well. The shade is right for you if it disappears and looks like you have nothing on.

Foundation alternative
Compared to liquid foundations, BB cream helps hide redness and blemishes minus the heaviness. It also makes the skin look fresh and healthy. "BB cream is generally lighter in texture and looks more dewy and natural," emphasizes Jigs. This makes BB cream a better alternative as a makeup base especially during the intense summer heat when you don't want to look heavily powdered—-BB cream is also less likely to become cakey when you start sweltering under the heat.

Proper application
To apply BB cream properly, Jigs advises it as the final step after your normal skin care routine. "Get a quarter-sized amount of product, dot it on forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Blend well using your fingers," he says. Make sure to blend well along the hairline and around the jawline to avoid streaks.