aikolynn: (LC - Smile)
 
Above is an image of the BB Creams Sephora carries to date...and they're all in the $30 price range.  I have to say that I think that's outrageous--$32-$39 for a small 1-1.75oz product?  I don't think so!  I totally get that these companies* are trying to get into the BB Cream market and take advantage of the American/English-speaking consumers, but I'd rather buy my BB Cream off eBay.  For $15.  "But the quality!" you say...I say BS.  I've tested these and frankly they aren't that great or different from Asian versions.  These may work for some people, but I'd rather not have to pay $30+ for a product of that small size.  I get that it's the trend, but I'd rather not get ripped off for something that's lacking in quality or boasts about certain properties that is found in most BB Creams.  Smashbox is especially guilty of this since they have an entire section dedicated to how wonderful their BB Cream is and how it moisturizes, has SPF, skin care properties, and evens out skin tone.  Wake up call--the majority of BB Creams have this.  Where they differ is usually the brand, thickness of the product, color options, and the specific purpose the product is trying to fulfill (various "types"--moisturizing, shimmer, acne, etc.).

While I think it's pretty cool that this Asian trend is catching on, it disgusts me that the prices for it are so high with some of them lacking in quality or claims to be miracle products.  These may be better suited for Western skin, but doesn't cut it for my Asian one.  I'll stick to my $15 BB Cream, thanks very much, but I am willing to try the Garnier one coming out next month.  At $12.99 it's affordable enough to consider purchasing, but we'll see.

I've come to learn that expensive and branded doesn't always mean it's better than something at a lower price.  I say take advantage of Sephora's buy-and-try policy.  Buy it, try it, hate it?, return it.  Simple and done.

*Dr. Jart is a Korea based company, but most of their BB Creams range from $10-$20 with some of them going up to the $30 range on eBay.  It's one of the higher-end brands of products from Korea, but as to how well they work...I have no idea.


--Cheryl
aikolynn: (Sulli - Snow White)
When Sephora released the BB Creams by Bosica, Clinique, and Dr. Jart (which is actually an Asian company), I thought that was the extent of this "Asian invasion" on the mainstream Western beauty market...I was wrong.  Apparently, the popularity of BB Cream has extended to drugstore makeup as Garnier is now planning to release its own line next month.  Of course, I'm skeptical because most of the BB Creams I've tested from the other "American released" brands are terribly expensive and way too dark.  The problem with BB Creams in general is the limited color range--usually 1-3 different colors.  However, it does seem that the American companies are out to make some major money off of this popular Asian product.  The Garnier version will only cost $12.99 which isn't too bad considering those sold at Sephora range from $22-$40 for a regular sized tube.  The BB Cream I use, Etude House's Precious Mineral All-Day Strong, goes for about $16 on eBay and is originally priced at 14,500 won.  I am curious to try the Garnier line due to the fact that their products have been very good to me (think Dark Spot Corrector and Moisture Rescue Gel Creme), but return policies at drug stores often aren't cosmetic-friendly.

image credit: beautyblitz.com
I'm very picky when it comes to BB Creams...and terribly hard to please.  I've tried a bunch and they've all failed to meet my expectations except for Etude House's...but even with that one I have some issues.  We'll see...but I do stand by the belief that BB Creams are better than foundation. ^^

You also have the opportunity to win a sample of Garnier's new BB Cream once it becomes available. Just go to their website and fill out the form. ^^

Edit: After doing a bit more browsing, I came across articles that state this year the "in" trend is BB Creams while tinted moisturizers are getting the boot.  Apparently Smashbox also has a BB Cream--who knew?  I know in Asia Maybelline and some of the other American drug store brands carry BB Creams, but maybe they'll be releasing them stateside. ^^

image credit: beautyblitz.com

And thank God those feather hair things are listed as an "out" item this year.

--Cheryl

aikolynn: (Jihyo - Make Up)
Since I bought TheFaceShop's Lovely ME:EX Make Up Base in violet on Saturday I've been wanting to try it.  I finally got a chance this morning when applying my make up for work...and boy does it make you pale!  Because I have Asian skin, the yellow in my skintone was completely covered by the violet (which is what it's supposed to do) and it made me really really pale.  I pretty much looked like death, but after applying my BB Cream and letting it settle (the color of the BB Cream usually darkens once it settles) it was the perfect color.  I have issues with my BB Creams (and previously foundations) darkening due to my oily skin.  For once my face actually matches my décolleté area and makes my blush stand out.
However, I'm wondering, after using this for a couple of days, if it will clog my pores and cause little bumps.  But, hey, it hasn't so far so I'm really happy.  And for $5 how can you go wrong?  I admit I've tested the colored Smashbox Color Correcting primers ($38) and even used the stila One Step Corrector($36), but those are incredibly expensive compared to this...and this appears to work even better.  Talk about a steal!  I think I'll be going back for the green base which eliminates redness.  This makes me wonder how much their foundations are...not that I use foundation any more.

--Cheryl

Profile

aikolynn: (Default)
Cheryl

It isn't about "like," but about "love."

When I call you, drunk, and speak of my love for you, all you have to do is listen.


December 2012

S M T W T F S
      1
2345678
9101112131415
16 171819202122
23242526272829
3031     

Most Popular Tags

Page generated Saturday, July 5th, 2025 01:18 pm
Powered by Dreamwidth Studios