Colour control creams: the new blemish balms

Originally, blemish balms were created by a German company to protect, soothe and help regenerate skin after surgery. Samples of the creams were taken to Korea by nurses in the late 1970s who had been working in Germany, and these became popular as cosmetics, primarily by word of mouth. During the 1980s and 1990s, blemish balms gained popularity in Asia and by the late 2000s, blemish balms (or BB creams as they are commonly known) were one of the most popular cosmetic products in Japan. In the last couple of years, BB creams have travelled back to Europe and the West, and are now a popular way of producing a quick, effective, even skin tone. However, as the original medical product was refined to a cosmetic, once again the blemish balm is being refined. BB creams managed to fit the need for quick, easy-to-use cosmetics (the ‘Turbo Beauty’ trend), enabling consumers to adjust colour while moisturising their skin. The new breed of creams, known as colour control (CC) creams, aim to retain these qualities while enhancing the skin care benefits and the quality of coverage on the skin. Additionally, CC creams are said to be less oily, resulting in fewer problems with spots, and offer a greater brightening effect. Currently, CC creams have only been launched in Asian markets. The highest profile of these was Chanel’s launch this year of CC Cream (Complete Correction) on the Chinese market. However, the likelihood is that the trend will soon transfer across the globe in much the same way as the BB is currently doing.

The transition from Asia to Europe

The initial popularity of BB creams was largely based on their ability to even the appearance of Asian skin tones. So, as BB creams have made their way back to Europe (and the US), modifications have had to be made to formulations in order for them to suit the ethnic profile of the consumer base. The introduction of these products has coincided with a growing desire among European consumers for cosmetic products to appear more natural on the skin, so people are starting to use BB creams in place of a foundation, which would have a much ‘heavier’ look. The ability of BB creams to offer luminosity will appeal to people wanting to revitalise the appearance of their skin, producing a younger, healthier look. The added benefits of CC creams are likely to find considerable support in Europe as well. With people working longer hours, a single product that can potentially be a genuine replacement for a moisturiser, foundation, anti-ageing cream, concealer, skin lightener, with SPF protection, will perfectly meet the requirements of timestarved individuals. In many ways, BB and CC creams are the ultimate multifunctional cosmetic product.