How To Apply BB Cream

12:23 AM

Hello everyone! I said I would start doing more "basics" videos this year and I wanted to kick-start that trend with one of the most highly requested videos, a "how to apply BB Cream" tutorial.

I was actually surprised to see that so many of you wanted to see this, but like with foundation, the texture of the product has a lot of impact on how best to apply it. My technique is actually a bit different than how I apply foundation so here's a step-by-step look at how I prefer applying BB Cream.


PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Skin 79 VIP Gold Triple Functions BB Cream (use code FRMHEADTOTOE for 5% off!)
NARS Concealer in Custard
Tarte Smooth Operator Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed

ON ME:

Lipstick is Urban Decay Naked
J. Crew bateau tee (similar/similar)
Nailpolish is Urban Outfitters polish in Hangover (similar/similar)

So for those of you new to "bb cream", they are Asia's answer to an all-in-one tinted moisturizer.

They give a natural coverage while giving additional benefits like sun protection, anti-aging properties, evening skin discoloration, and help to heal blemishes and unbalanced skin. I do have an overview review and post of several different kinds which you can check out here.

I show you the entire process in the video, but I'll break down my process into a few easy steps:

1. Dot all over face



2. Blend into skin

3. Add extra dots where more coverage is needed

4. Pat into selected areas to get more coverage

5. Add concealer if needed

6. Set with powder if needed

I also added some of my favorite natural blush, Tarte Exposed, as well as a bit of Urban Decay Naked lipstick to get the final face that is fresh, glowy, and perfect for everyday.


I hope this was helpful for those of you who wanted some extra-precise direction in applying BB Cream. I do want to mention as a disclaimer that there really is no "right way" when it comes to makeup and to experiment with brushes, fingers, sponges, etc. to see what works best for you! For me, the ease of using no primer, brushes, or even setting powders most days makes bb creams a great everyday face makeup winner. :)

Let me know in the comments what you'd like to see in the next "basics" video!

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92 comments

  1. Just came back from korea and di my damage on bb cream haha so it was great to see this post! xx

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  2. Nice tutorial. Now if only I had some BB cream to apply...Time to hit the stores, I suppose.
    www.thegirlieblog.com

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  3. never thought of layering bb cream to blemishes! thanks :)

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  4. I gave my BB Cream another go (the Skin79 hot pink one) but by lunch time it had mostly slipped off my skin, even with a finishing powder. Any tips to keep it on longer?

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    1. I know. That has happened to me, too. It runs off my face and into my hands. I handle a lot of paperwork at my job and I would see my fingerprint on the paper. I don't want to send paperwork with my fingerprint on it. I stopped using VB cream because of this.

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    2. I meant bb cream, not VB cream.

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  5. I love the finish the BB creams give and the easy of application. I just have really oily skin. I use both the Skin 79 hot pink and gold BB creams - but by mid-day they start to slide off my face.
    I've used setting powders and primers but still not much more luck.
    Any suggestions?

    http://cocomechanel.blogspot.com

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  6. who's the little furry guy sashaying across the room? we haven't been introduced!

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  7. Thank you for making this video! I watched yesterday and immediately pulled out my Skin 79 pink B cream, took off my makeup and applied w/ my fingers. When I first got it I used a brush like I do for foundation and it was just OK. Fingers is so much better! I used it again today!

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  8. Ooooh this is super useful! I'm trying to learn as much as I can about bb creams so this really helps.

    Do you know if there are any Asian moisturising creams out there that have the same skin rejuvenating, pore tightening and skin whitening effects? Basically a bb cream that is actually a moisturiser and doesn't need to be removed at the end of the day? I've never used foundation before, so I am a little reluctant to leave products on my face for the whole day...!

    And for the future...any tips on how to remove blackheads and whiteheads?

    Hmmm video ideas...how to achieve a no make-up applied look?

    Yishi x

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  9. Thanks for posting this video! Such a great tip to use BB cream as a layering product. I have watched your previous video about different types of BB cream. I'm currently using Missha but have just ordered the Skin 79 Super Hot Pink. Such a great review on BB cream swatches. Save me from buying a whole bunch and test them out.

    http://mui28.blogspot.com

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  10. I just did a blog on BB creams too!! I use Missha Perfect M in 31 coz I have tanned skin. Know of any other brands that make them for tanned skin?

    www.jazzo-princessjasminem.blogspot.com

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  11. Do you feel that BB creams tend to smudge very easily????

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    1. Yes! I hate it! I know you're asking Jen, but just thought I let you know you're not the only one who experienced that with bb cream. See my reply above to another blogger. I just stopped using bb cream I like how it makes your face feel, like it's light, anti-aging, smooth, but it rubs off and into my hand! I constantly have to go to the bathroom or check the mirror. Makes my face feel gross at the end of the day.

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  12. I love bbcream but just like CocoMeChanel I found it slides off my face mid-day too.. I like to oil-paper my face mid-day,re-apply bbcream and powder my face to get more longevity out of it. :)

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  13. Hi Jen!

    I'm a big fan of yours! I have monolids so a lot of your monolid tutorials were really useful for me! I even followed your recent monolid tutorial for a Chinese New Year party step by step, hehe, and it came out great! :)

    I was wondering if you could do a basic video on how to contour your face? (I have a much wider face than you) so any advice on how to make my face look skinnier would be great!

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  14. Thank you for posting this. I have just recently started using BB creams and could never get it to work properly for me. I will try the method you shared and see if that gives me better results!

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  15. thanks for tutorial! however all the BB creams I found in China were way too light or had a pinkish look

    ~bluemohn.blogspot.com

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  16. Thanks for the video! I have Missha Perfect Cover and for some reason I just cannot sweep it all over my face like you did - on most days it just rubs right off no matter how light-handed I was! Ended up having to pat it on from the start.

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  17. These are the steps I use to apply foundation too. I hate BB cream though because the whole "one-shade-fits-all" just really doesn't work well. :/

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  18. hi jen! a singapore reader here! :) would like to say that your entire makeup regime for this bb cream post is how i do my daily makeup when i go to school! something more natural and less noticeable yet i can enjoy a good coverage all day long. :)
    i am of a slightly darker skin tone and i use the bb cream from Etude House (comes with spf!) if anyone else's interested :)
    LOVING YOUR BLOG JEN!

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  19. haha...Love this vid Jen, like all your others. I use my bb cream in the same way you do :) only I don't apply it all over. Only on my blemishes and for brightening my under eye circles..so I totally understand you! I use vichy fluid foundation for my t-zone.

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  20. Hi, how did you do your hair in this video? :)

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  21. Hi Jen! Thanks for doing this tutorial. =) Can you do a tutorial on how to achieve a perfect cat eye?

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  22. This video/post explained pretty well all there is to know about using BB cream :) I am totally BB cream biased, have been using for years and even converted my mom to using it :P She prefers it over foundation now too ^^

    From, tht-christina.blogspot.com

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  23. Great video! I LOVE the hot pink BB cream. I use it everyday as my basic foundation, and then I spot conceal with Mac concealer and finish with Mac blotting powder. I love how moisturizing the BB cream is, and I really think that it has improved my skin.

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  24. Jen, do you reply at all? I have sent you questions, and I'm sure many other people have, but you never answer back.

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  25. I am so looking forward to your basic makeup series! Love the BB cream tutorial, I have been using it for 2 years and love it.
    I'd love to see more basic fool proof eye shadow makeup that will be natural-looking for work. Love your blog and all

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  26. I'm super new to BB creams, but really see their potential. Where can I get the cheapest BB creams?

    Thanks!

    http://weare-practically-frugal.blogspot.com/

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  27. Love the lipstick! I had the same one, my first UD lipstick. However, I had to return it because I was tired of how hard it was to open! How can you stand it? :(

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  28. What camera do you use again? Also I love how you do pictures along with your step by step tutorials !! :)
    www.thevelvetelephants.blogspot.com

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  29. Great tutorial I recently bought some Skin 79 bb cream so thanks for the tips!

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  30. Its so cute how your dog comes across the background on 6:30, so sweet ♥
    Really nice video, I love to hear your voice. English isn't my mother language but I always understand everything you say, cause you speak so clearly and with such a calm voice ♥

    Unfortunately I don't own BB Creams yet but I will buy some the next time being in japan, which will be in some weeks.
    Have a nice week.

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  32. Thanks for the basic technique in applying bb cream. A quick question, does anyone know what that pink clip on Jen's hair is called? I've seen many people use it to pull their side bangs aside when doing make-up.

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  33. Thanks for this!! BTW, what brush is that you are using? Thanks!!

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  34. How to take care of your false eyelashes so they last longer!

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  35. Thanks for the BB cream tutorial! It's definitely my go-to product in the morning. Maybe a future basics tutorial on contouring the face with bronzers and highlighter/luminizers would be helpful. Maybe even one on how to select the right undereye concealer, too! Thanks again!

    http://mllechicolatte.blogspot.com/

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  36. I was wondering if you've actually tried any of the American bb creams? are there any that are similar to the Asian ones?

    On a less related note, do you have any tips for applying tinted moisturizer?

    Your wavy hair looks great. How do you style it?

    Thanks!

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  37. Hi, I love your blog! I will definately visit often for your amazing tutorials, I am following you for sure. Please visit my site, and follow me too :)

    http://glam-mania.blogspot.com

    xoxo
    Sooji.

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  38. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  39. I have the same BB cream but I don't think it works the same to me as I have super dry skin at the moment, no better what I do after I put foundation/BB cream on it looks flaky. :( Of course, I tried to prime my face beforehand using a hydrating primer but still the same result. sigh. Sadly, my dark circles are way too dark so I need extra coverage. lol

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  40. I wish to see on ur next basic video on ur favorite brushes. Could you show us what are good brushes we should own ?
    Thank you Jen !! Loving your videos, so helpful !
    xxx

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  41. and by the way, ur link to where we could buy this bb cream is out of stock, any recommendation where we could get this cream other than ur linked website ?
    Thanks

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  42. Hi! So this question has more to do with the tarte finishing powder than the bb cream. I read that it has an ingredient in it known to cause cancer. It's Lysophosphatidic Acid, I believe. I haven't done much research or anything though. I know people can jump the gun pretty easily...I mean too much sun can cause skin cancer. That doesn't mean don't ever go outside. :) I just wondered if there should be cause for concern or is the amount in it so small it's silly to worry about? Okay, thank you! I LOVE your blog, reviews, tutorials, etc. :)

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  43. thanks for this post...i always enjoy watchin' your youtube vids and i was so happy to see one on bb cream :)
    http://chiikalivelovelaugh.blogspot.com/

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  44. Thanks for this post Jen, now I definitely have to buy one of these

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  45. Hi jen! Another reader frm singapore! I have really sensitive skin that turns red and fleshy after applying all kinds of make up! Do u have any trick to calm my skin? And im gng overseas too! Anyway i can keep my skin moisturizer on the plane?

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  46. I love BB cream. Great tutorial.

    http://www.myminibag.blogspot.com

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  47. Really useful!
    I just found your blog, I was searching discount code for Pinkyparadise lenses and I saw this.. I love it! I'm thinking of buying blue or green ones *-*
    Hey, I follow you, nice site! :)
    xx

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  48. Hello Jen. Your tutorials are a great help for me. Thank you. I am your new follower.

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  49. Super lovely blog!

    xoxo,

    http://www.colormenana.blogspot.com

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  50. How did you do your eye makeup here? I LOVE IT!! Teach me please!!

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  51. i love your tips, always practical and helpful, thanks :)

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  52. i love your earrings, where are they from? thansk!

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  53. Just placed my order (ordered thru Amazon, was slightly cheaper). Can't wait to try it out!! I used Bare Minerals for years, and since your CVS clearance haul video have been using Physician's Formula powder foundation. I am totally psyched to try BB cream... I have never even heard of it before!!!

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  54. Great video Jen! Love the mirror you applied your makeup wide. Where did you get it?

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  55. This was actually really interesting - I think Sephora just recently introduced BB Creams into their repertoire - do you like any of the ones they carry?
    I love your blog, I'm semi-new to it and I don't think I've ever commented. You're adorable.
    xo
    The Fashionable ESQ
    http://www.thefashionableesq.blogspot.com/

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  56. Love this tutorial! very informative :)

    cupcakesandflowers.blogspot.com

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  57. I just ordered the BB cream. And the Tarte Smooth Operator. And the Tarte Blush in Blissful. The first two have been on my wish list for a while. I threw in the blush to get the free shipping, LOL.

    I can't wait for everything to get here.

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  58. Has anyone tried the Maybelliine BB Mousse? It oxidizes REALLY quickly! Just a few seconds out of the tube it turns from a light beige color to a dark orange color. At the end of the day my face looks so dark and yellow. I hate it.

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  59. Thanks for the post! BB Creams are a little thicker than foundations, so it's nice to see a technique to apply it ^_^

    I also recently bought my first Korean BB Cream! Yay :) But I have a question about it. There is a date on the BB Cream, but I don't know if it's the expiration or production date. Because if it's the expiration date, then I should go and exchange the product... But if it's the production date, then it's pretty fresh. Do you know if Korean products typically put expiration dates or production dates on their products?

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  60. Hi Jen. Where did you get that cute hair clip? Thank you.

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    1. oo, i ordered from "prettyandcute.com" and the bb creams came with that "clip". It's a velcro that you just place on your bangs and it keeps them up! pretty cute, didn't know velcro went on hair like that =)

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    2. oo, i bought my bb creams at "prettyandcute.com" and they came with that "clip". It's actually a velcro that you put on your hair to keep your bangs from going on your face, never knew velcro could go on hair! =)

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  61. Hey Jen,

    I am really interested in getting this BB cream. I'm Asian like you but quite tan, I use MAC foundation 42 so I'm wondering if this would be too light for me?

    Thanks for all your detailed reviews and tutorials!

    Pam

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  62. Jen, when you said what Sigma brush you were using in the video, you said F40? Did you mean F20? I've been hunting for a huge face brush like the one you're using but when I search for F40 on the website it brings up a contouring brush? lol O_o; Love the tutorial, I apply bb cream the same way, but I love the way you use it also as a concealer! A very informative and helpful tutorial! <3

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  63. I'd love to try a BB cream, but I'm a little worried about the whitening ingredients that seem to be in most of them. I want my skin to stay brown. Have you seen your skin get lighter after using these products (and did it last)?

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  64. Jen, can you do a "basic" tutorial on removing makeup thoroughly? I've used all kinds of removers and I always feel like there are residual eye makeup leftover in the morning. Plus I feel like I have to rub and wipe w cotton pads so much to get mascara to budge even a tiny bit. So frustrating that removing makeup has to result in creating more fine lines around sensitive skin area with all that tugging and wiping.

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  65. Hey Jen!
    What are your thoughts on Laneige BB cream??? Im currently using this...
    I live in Singapore and because the weather is always humid, my t-zone tends to get a bit oily.
    Any other oil control BB creams you recommend? :)

    Btw, i absolutely love your blog and videos! Thanks!!!

    Jaz

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  66. Hi .. Your blog is lovely and so are you! Congratulations We have featured this lovely blog in our FanPage, SKIN79, Brunei.

    Regards
    SKIN79 Brunei

    www.facebook.com/skin79bruneidarussalam

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  67. Hi Jen! I just bought this and love it! Was a little wierded out with the grey-ness of it at first but it eventually oxidized and matched my skin nicely. Now i can't wait to try the hot pink one!
    Quick question: can you do a tutorial of how you did your hair in this video? It's so pretty!!

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  68. Jen I LOVE your blog/videos! question...what did you use to curl your hair in the "how to apply bb cream" video? I adore it and would love to try it out also! :)

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  69. I love your complexion....i've never heard of bb cream and would really like to try it. I live in Houston, tx where can i buy it?

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  70. Hello jen,
    I like your site every much. I was not aware of BB cream at all. after watching your video, I'm considering buying bb cream...

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  71. thanks a lot, it was very helpful...I too ha e noticed that BB cream takes around 5-10 minutes to blend in with the skin to give a more natural look :)

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  72. Thanks Jen for your post. I have found your technique is really helpful for applying skin79. Could you please make a vid on how to apply concealer or choosing the right concealer? I always had those ugly creases when I tried to use concealer. But if it's common for concealer instead of concealing but enhancing the crease, I would decide to give it up for good. Moreover now there are new skin79 orange label and skin79 BB snail creams, could you please also review those as well?
    Thanks.

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  73. Nice video, Jen! But I read some articles before saying that it would be better to apply
    BB cream by patting motion. This will prevent the fine lines and wrinkles as dragging motion may strain the sensitive skin especially around eye area.

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  74. I want to try skin79 hot pink bb cream... Anyone knows a reliable website that I can buy from?
    Thanks ;)

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  75. Hello - I would like to ask a question about a recent purchase of Skin79 BB cream - although - I see that questions posted on here will go unanswered by the creator of this blog. So - maybe another "poster" can help with an answer. I am wondering if BB creams have an expiration date? Underneath the Skin79 BB cream bottle it has the numbers 20120420. I "assume" this number is an expiration date of 04-20-2012. I recently bought it of Amazon for cheap. And now I may know why. But - before I contact the seller - I just wanted to see if my assumptions were valid.

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    Replies
    1. I know I am not another "poster" but maybe I can still help answer this question. ;)

      The date listed on most Korean cosmetics tend to be the manufacturing date, not the expiration date like Western cosmetics. Since BB Cream is similar to foundation, it would be safe to stick to a 1-year rule. It uses a pump dispenser so it should be more sanitary than a lot of foundations but 1 year is an easy rule-of-thumb to remember.

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  76. my face is dry even though i wash and moisturize daily before putting on bb cream. But my face still gets flaky afterward. what to do? any tips?

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  77. Do you know where I could get an authentic bb cream? I just bought a sample from amazon after reading positive reviews but they turned out brown....like foundation. the oriental and vital bb creams were really runny. but basically they were a brownish color and didnt have a grayish tint at all...I didn't think they were authentic samples.

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  78. have you heard of the CC Cream (Color Control). I heard that it is even better than BB cream. Could you do a review on that product? Thanks so much Jenny

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  79. Hi Jen, Can you do a review on skin79 orange vita bb cream?

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  80. I LOVE BB Cream btu I've not tried this particular one! Always thought it might be a bit too rich- how do you find it??

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  81. Hi Jen,

    Thanks for another helpful tutorial! I've been just getting into the makeup scene and your videos have been an essential guide for my explorations. Like you, I am Asian in my 20's with oily/combination skin, and have oily monolids. Its rare to see any one on the internet offer comprehensive tutorials for monolids, so I really appreciate your help and experience. c:

    I would love to see a basics tutorial on selecting the best foundation type (i.e. liquid, minerals, powder, bb cream, etc) depending on skin type (oily/dry), weather/seasons, skin complications (i.e. eczema, coverage), and look (i.e. matte, dewy, etc). Every time I walk into Sephora and MAC I am overwhelmed by the choice, and I think others would find it very helpful as well.

    Thank you! And I hope all is well.

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  82. Thank you for the demonstration, I found it on youtube after I had purchased this product and there was actually no directions on the packaging. What a great demonstration and this is also my new favorite product, it makes my skin look amazing and soft.

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  83. Yaay i've been watching this over and over and over to get the perfect look^^ still need to find the right powder for my skin but im not giving up just yet :))

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  84. Which is your favorite BB cream currently?

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