Blemish balms, or BB creams, first gained popularity in Korea where they account for 13 per cent of makeup sales.
Last summer they began to crop up on beauty counters here in Britain and now every band seems to have produced their own version of this blend of cosmetic and skincare cream .
BB’s work like primers by brightening skin and making it even, like a tinted moisturiser, but they also improve skin quality by hydrating and soothing and providing sun protection too. They vary in their coverage and some also have anti-ageing properties.
MAC BB Beauty Balm, £21, maccosmetics.co.uk, has the coverage of a light foundation in a tone to suit all skins and with a 35SPF is perfect for summer. To try a BB that is a little easier on the wallet, Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector Daily All-In-One Blemish Balm, £9.99, Boots, blurs imperfections, gently adds colour and a glow, hydrates and protects.