This Works: L'Oreal Youth Code BB Cream Illuminator
If you aren't familiar with BB creams yet, you've probably been in hiding for the past year - that, or simply too enamored with your go-to foundation to even consider glancing at a potential alternative. I should know, since I was once one of those women. I'm also one of those women who's a sucker for pretty packaging and new things. So when I was picking up some essentials at the drugstore lately, my eye practically lasered in on the new L'Oreal Youth Code BB Cream Illuminator SPF 15 ($16.99).Sleek and slender, the box alone captured my attention because of the Youth Code connection. The powerhouse brand's most recent anti-aging collection, Youth Code is formulated to prevent the early signs of aging - so it's perfect for women in their 20s and 30s, like yours truly. Though I hadn't yet tested the actual skin care line, I jumped at the chance to try the BB Cream. All the hype over this so-called miracle product, purported to perfect, smooth and illuminate skin, had my curiosity piqued.
L'Oreal's BB Cream is available in two shades (light and medium) and contains vitamins B3, CG, pro-cysteine and recoverine. Together, these vitamins and proteins work to hydrate, nourish, nourish and repair skin to a healthier state. In my case, I felt like I was really taking a risk - my skin is very sensitive, so I'm often wary of breaking ties with my tried-and-true products. However, my inner beauty junkie tends to trump my skin type. While that's not often smart and I do end up paying the price, from time to time my adventurous streak yields serious results.
Like now.
Consider me sold. At first, I was struck by the product's scent - it's mild, but that first whiff is always a bit disconcerting - and had a brief "I'm sure I'll wake up with zits tomorrow AM" thought run through my mind. Still, I carried on. I learned immediately that a little bit goes a long way, which took me by surprise since this is, essentially, a tinted moisturizer. I opted for the light version, which is usually perfect for me even during summer. Just a small dollop on my ring finger was all it took to cover a side of my face. And talk about coverage! My skin went from slightly red and blotchy to utterly flawless. I don't use that word lightly, ladies, so take my word for it. It even covered up the slight dark circles I sported.
The texture is creamy, but once it's applied it feels remarkably lightweight and almost airy, almost like those mousse products that took the beauty world by storm a few years ago. This also has the added side effect of leaving behind a slightly dewy finish - that kind of radiant glow usually achieved with the help of highlighters mixed into foundation.
The SPF 15 content doesn't hurt either, although I always apply sunscreen separately, too. I've been using the Youth Code BB Cream Illuminator for about a month now, and it appears to have smoothed out some dry spots, too. My skin usually needs to be bathed in moisture to really look its best, so I'm especially pleased by how well this keeps my skin supple throughout the day.
The product is touted as a sort of multitasking miracle worker, formulated to even, illuminate, moisturize, correct and perfect. It does indeed appear to do all of these things, which is incredibly impressive. I try not to be overly generous with praise unless it's actually warranted, and I think that it is in this case. Coupled with the reasonable price and cost per use, this is easily my favorite beauty find of the season!
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