Style Test Drive: BB Creams

BB creams (blemish balms, that is), have been all the rage as of late. They started off in Korea and Japan, but it wasn't until recently that US makeup brands started creating their own. The dream product is intended to be one part foundation, one part skin care product. So, how is it different from tinted moisturizers? Unlike them, BB creams have anti-aging, antioxidants, brighteners and SPF ingredients. Could this wonder cream be the real deal? We put them to the test and found three favorites!

MIRACLE PRODUCT: Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector B. B. Cream ($12.99)

The hot new thing now is BB cream. They're everywhere now and really popular in Asia. Everything goes overseas first and then it hits us! I think these creams are amazing. They are supposed to brighten, hydrate and even out your skin, plus they act as a tinted primer, too. I have the Smashbox one that is close to $50, but this Garnier one is $15. I keep it in my purse. It does a million things, but I love how it feels on my skin when I first put it on. My pores go away! It's great for summer because you can skip the foundation and let your skin breath. Just put the primer on and then your blush on top of it. —Jessica

MIRACLE PRODUCT: Stila Stay All Day 10-in-1 Beauty Balm ($39)

BB Creams are officially new obsession. I have difficult skin and my foundation seems to hate staying on my face past, oh, 3 p.m. But these balms are ah-may-zing, especially the Stila stay all day 10-in-1. It goes on smooth, reduces redness and makes my pores practically disappear. Not only that, it smells fresh and fruity. I happen to need more coverage, so even though it's tinted, I can't use this in place of foundation, and the lack of SPF means it's better for keeping my nighttime makeup in place. But I can take those two mini-problems, because it lives up to its promises and my makeup actually stays on! —Emily

MIRACLE PRODUCT: Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35 ($39)

I like makeup that looks natural on my face. So, for me this BB cream was my dream come true. It provided just the right amount of coverage, and I noticed that my face had a nice glow ever since I started wearing it. Plus, I love that is also has SPF 35! The price is a little steep, since the product is small. However, I did learn that a little bit of this cream goes a long way! Also, they have limited shade options available. I was lucky that the medium shade worked perfectly on me. These mini cons aside, I may never go back to regular foundation or tinted moisturizer.—Daisy