Today I have a review of a BB cream of the Asian variety - the Asian brands seem to do the best BBs am I right? They were the originals after all! I have the Heroine Make Lasting Mineral BB cream in the shade 02. Sadly they only have 2 shades and both are quite light, however that is how Asian BB creams tend to run. I picked this product on a total whim when I was in Hong Kong as I'd heard nothing about it, so I had no predispositions toward it!
The BB cream has an SPF of 34 with PA++ which is awesome to see in a makeup product - but considering how obsessed Asians are with protecting their skin, it's not surprising. Typically, Asian BB creams have many skincare benefits but seeing as all the writing on the package in another language, I'm not too sure if this one does (my Chinese reading skills aren't that good)! Regardless I'm not too fussed as that is why I use skincare!
The texture of the Lasting Mineral BB cream is thick but still creamy and easily blended. I usually use my fingers to really work the product into my skin, but a brush works fine too. Like I said in my last favourites, the coverage and lasting power of this BB cream are the best in my collection! The coverage is light to medium, but erring on the side of medium and buildable. When used rather thickly, I hardly need concealer and it functions as a foundation really, but it can also be applied lightly. It has a satin-matte finish initially. I find I can wear this for 10 hours and only really be shiny on the nose, and 'dewy' in the t-zone. It's actually a look I like as it's really melded with the skin and looks very natural. This is with setting powder (as always), however I don't use mattifying sunscreen underneath so it's definitely a testament to its staying power. Because it's a bit thicker, and a heavier coverage, it's not as natural looking or weightless on the skin as other BB creams. It doesn't accentuate dry patches or make my skin dry, but is a little bit more obvious on the skin - more like a foundation. Regardless - that is the trade off for a better coverage and staying power than lighter, skin-like products.
The shade 02 is a bit light for me, but what I like about it is that it is not grey toned or ashy like other Asian BB creams can be, but is actually yellow toned. Although the shade is a bit light, it's definitely workable and because it blends so well, it's hardly detectable!
I absolutely love this BB cream and its staying power and coverage are outstanding. I've even been reaching for this over foundation as it offers similar coverage but has a better lasting power, and is one of those products that look better as the day goes on!
