It sounds like the skincare equivalent of a magic pill: it alleviates blemishes and redness, can be used on sensitive and rosacea-prone skin, helps combat acne and cold sores and relieves skin rashes. For over 50 years, the zinc-based BB Cream has helped women achieve clear, radiant skin with daily application.
"Blemish Balm, as it was originally called in the 1950’s was discovered in Europe in wound-healing trials,” explains skincare therapist Sue Dann. “As the BB Cream’s formulation evolved it became obvious that it worked wonders on far more than impurities, it also helped regenerate the skin to leave it looking brighter.”
After extensive trials on patients who had undergone Herbal Aktiv Peel treatments (a natural skin resurfacing peel using herbs) it became clear that BB Cream offered incredible post-peel protection. “The results for skin were better than had ever been seen before. Redness decreased rapidly and the appearance of the skin improved dramatically,” says Sue Dann.
The results prompted skin care experts at Alex Cosmetics' German labs to intensively study the benefits of BB Cream and to adjust the formulations to specifically suit different skin concerns. “That lead to the launch of Royal BB Cream, a product that has become a bestseller worldwide,” says Sue. “Through its regenerating and nourishing properties, Royal BB Cream calms and moisturises skin, while helping to prevent premature ageing.”
BB Creams also became popular in Asia during the past decade after a South Korean actress used it following a laser treatment to cover-up the redness and then went on to publicise her positive experience with the product, according to Dr Mary Dingley from the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia. "Since then it has spread throughout Asia and has been launched in other parts of the world as a type of 'miracle solution' for a range of skincare and cosmetic woes."
"The idea behind BB cream is that it is an 'all-in-one' skincare and cosmetic product…. Internationally, major cosmetic brands such as Clinique, Garnier and Estee Lauder have launched BB cream products… After reviewing the ingredients in a number of BB creams on the market, they appear to combine a number of compounds that are available in a number of products, which many people use on a daily basis, into one product. For example, while some Bb creams offer cosmetic ingredients that act like a foundation and sunscreen, others contain active ingredients like Vitamin C that are usually available in over-the-counter skincare products." Adds Dr Mary Dingley.
The latest addition to the Alex Cosmetics' BB Cream family is Alex Organics Pure BB Cream, which, according to the creators, is formulated with the purest natural ingredients available. “It’s incredible how effective natural ingredients can be in the right combination,” says Sue. “Organics Pure BB Cream is testament to the fact that the way forward in high-tech skin care is to incorporate the best of nature and science.”
True to its original zinc base, each Alex Cosmetics BB Cream formulation has a unique combination of anti-bacterial, intense hydration and anti-ageing benefits. “It also contains physical sun protection which, unlike chemical agents used in sunscreens, safely protects the skin and works immediately on application,” says Sue.
With a light tint, BB Cream is the perfect solution for summer skin as it eliminates the need to wear skin-clogging foundations and provides sun and moisture protection for all skin types. “If you’re looking for a simple skin care solution, BB Cream does double duty beauty – it helps repair imperfections and gives you light, natural coverage to even out skin tone at the same time. BB Cream is the ultimate two-in-one, no-fuss solution for busy women on the go,” says Sue. “It’s everything that stands for Alex Cosmetics: intelligent formulations and protective care for women and men around the world.”
Visit www.omniderm.com.au to find out more.