2011 has really been the year of the BB cream; thanks to blogging friends from around the world, I have tried lots and lots and am a complete convert, although have to admit that for winter, I’m back on foundations. We’re going to see a whole lot of BB releases for 2012, kicking off with the Estee Lauder Daywear BB Cream on 2nd of January (exclusive to Selfridges before going nationwide in Feb).
Although the shade of the sample I was sent isn’t quite right for me, the consistency is wonderful; creamy and light and gives a sheer coverage that mid-way between foundation and tinted moisturiser. It’s hard to put my finger on exactly what the smell is (they say cucumber and florals but…) but it reminded me straight away of sun-tan lotions; slightly sweet and exotic, and it is quite strongly perfumed. It’s clearly been made for the UK market (as opposed to the EL Cyberwhite BB sold here in travel retail only), because there is absolutely no grey undertone at all. Compared to the Boots 17BB cream it has more olive tones, while the Boots BB runs slightly more pink.
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| Boots next to EL (EL with smudge) |
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| EL not official packaging yet so I can’t show the front. |
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| Boots first then EL. |
EL BB has SPF35 and comes in two tones and controls oil and shine, but isn’t matte; there is a slight sheen on application. It’s got brightening optics, light reflectors, hydrators (including heavy weight, hyularonic acid) and lipids, plus a whack of anti-oxidants such as Vitamin C. None of this comes cheap at £32 a tube.
This BB is definitely up there – it’s gorgeous quality, lovely consistency and I absolutely love it. That said, I’ve noticed that the EL description of the BB abreviation is ‘Beauty Benefit’ rather than the standard ‘Blemish Balm’, so they’ve altered the original meaning to make one of their own which is a little misleading. There has to be a reason for this, although as far as I can tell it still has all the usual BB credentials; SPF, skincare, colour etc, although doesn’t claim to tackle what we might term as blemishes other than a nod at oil control. *Scratches head*.
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7 comments
This is the only BB cream that has caught my attention. I’m seldom disappointed with Estee Lauder and it is nice to see a BB cream with an olive tone rather thank pink or grey! x
Thanks for the heads up! The reason why oil control doesn’t feature in BB creams in general is that these were originally designed for post cosmetic surgery procedures!!
I guess the term “Blemish” implies “spots” here and that is not really a major concern of the EL market. Still it seems like it does the same job but I think its a nice twist on the market positioning!
The Cosmetic Scientist
http://www.beautyfeelosophy.com
Since they changed the meaning of BB, I’m guessing it is just a foundation with added SPF!
Only A Girls Blog
http://onlyagirlsblog.blogspot.com
What shade do you have? The shade 01 or 02?
I have tried the Estee Lauder Sheer tint Release Daywear which instantly adapts to your skin giving you a sunkissed glow! The BB cream is lovely too and i will probably buy both as i can’t decide between the two!! They are both great products and i love them !! I hate foundation and these are perfect for me. The BB gives more coverage but i like the suntan effect of the Sheer Tint Release. So the BB will be for days that i have spots or look extra tired!! LOVE< LOVE< LOVE!!!!!
For me it is more like a tinted moisturizer but i really love it: http://h-bsch.blogspot.com/2012/05/estee-lauder-day-wear-bb-cream.html
xo
K.