When it comes to what you put on your face each morning, the BB cream vs foundation debate can really get under your skin.
It’s the classic choice between low-effort glow and full-face glam, and people tend to have strong feelings about it. Some swear by the easy, breezy vibe of a BB cream, while others wouldn’t dream of heading out without a proper layer of foundation.
So, which one actually deserves a spot in your routine? Let’s break it down.

First up, what even is BB cream?
Short for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm”, BB cream is basically skincare and makeup in one. It’s lighter than foundation but still offers a bit of coverage. Think of it as your skin, but with a (really) subtle Instagram filter on it.
Many BB creams contain sun protection plus other ingredients to help skin feel moisturised and nourished rather than completely dried out, as some foundations are prone to doing.
What are the pros of BB cream?
What people don’t always realise is that BB creams are brilliant for days when your skin’s acting up. If you know that the last thing your skin needs is a heavy foundation, but you still want some coverage, a BB cream is a fantastic alternative.

The lighter coverage allows your skin to breathe, and the gentle formula is less likely to irritate. If your skin is having a dry day, a flaky day or just in a terrible mood, BB cream won’t cling the way foundation sometimes can.
And then there’s the cost benefits. BB cream is generally cheaper than foundation, with popular products like Rimmel’s SPF 15 BB Cream selling for around $15 and often spotted half price at supermarkets.
What isn’t it good for?
While BB cream is great for those days when you want a “no-makeup” look, it falls down when it comes to coverage.
If you’re dealing with spots, pigmentation or want a long-lasting finish that will see you through a 12-hour day, BB cream might leave you wanting more.
Another issue with BB cream is the colour factor. Many brands have limited shades when compared to the almost unlimited shades of foundations. So if you don’t fall into the fair-to-medium range, you could struggle to find the perfect shade for your skin tone.
Why is foundation so popular?
Because foundation brings the drama. It’s buildable, comes in a huge range of shades and finishes and it gives you that polished, ready-for-anything look. If you’ve got an event, a day full of meetings or just want to feel more put together, foundation has your back.

But what are the downsides?
There’s a reason so many people dread foundation days. It can feel very heavy. For some, the end of the day can’t come fast enough to be able to take it off!
Foundation also takes more effort to blend, and if your base isn’t prepped properly, it’ll cling to dry patches or settle into those pesky fine lines around the eyes and mouth.
Plus, unlike a BB cream, which often comes with SPF built in, you may need to apply sunscreen before your foundation, which isn’t ideal when you’re rushing out the door. Layering sunscreen and foundation can leave you feeling a little sticky, too.

So, BB Cream vs foundation: when should you wear what?
If you’re heading to brunch, running errands or just want your skin to look a bit perkier, we suggest reaching for a BB cream.
For weddings, nights out or anything with flash photography, foundation’s your go-to. You can even layer the two, using BB cream as a base and touching up with foundation where you need extra coverage.
The best choice? Probably both. It just depends on the day.
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Tell us, what’s your preference between BB cream and foundation? Leave your thoughts below!
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