Review: Clinique Age Defense BB Cream

You may have read that Clinique released its Age Defense BB Cream in Asia last year and they have launched it in the UK exclusively to Harrods this week and I was kindly sent a tube to try out myself. 

If you are not familiar with Beauty Balm ‘BB’ Creams they are dubbed as a miracle cream combining a primer, foundation, sun block, treatment and a moisturiser all in one. BB cream stands for 'Blemish Balm' cream. It was originally invented by German dermatologists for patients who have undergone laser skin surgery to soothe, heal and regenerate their skin. Later on, Korean celebrities adapted this formula and started using BB cream for creating the natural flawless skin look and now it has become one of the hottest beauty trends in Asia.

Clinique’s version not only helps to prevent the premature signs of ageing with UVA/UVB and environmental protection but also conceals imperfections. The cream promises to reduce fine lines and wrinkles using a complex of optics, and sooth and hydrate skin for a more youthful appearance. Additionally, this cream helps balance skin and provides oil and shine control to extend the life of foundation all day long. 

The other BB Creams I have tried in the past have been quite a sheer texture and left my skin tacky and glowy, which I don’t mind but this would not suit an oily skin as this would look greasy. The Clinique version is thicker in consistency and absorbs instantly into the skin and dries instantly leaving skin soft & silky without being greasy and I think this would be suitable for all skin types and especially oily skins, however, I think those with a drier skin would benefit from moisturising first.

The cream is very lightweight and sheer but is buildable but covers well and evens out skin tone and creates a flawless base. I prefer a more natural looking light-medium coverage foundation but still use concealer to cover dark circles under the eyes. The cream contains a decent level of SPF 30 for sun protection, fragrance free formula, great at keeping oil at bay and the packaging is lightweight squeezey tube it would be ideal to wear in warmer climates and to use whilst on holiday. I tried Shade 01 (pink toned) and at first thought it looked a little too pink but once blended onto my skin it was the perfect match.

Overall, I have been pretty impressed with Clinique Age Defence BB Cream and it is my favourite BB Cream that I have tried so far. The coverage was good for me, it looked natural, I liked there was no scent and the formula is nice and creamy. The only negative being there are only 2 shades in the range, Shade 01 (pink toned) and Shade 02 (golden toned) so those with darker skin tones will struggle.

The new Age Defense BB Cream SPF30 is available in two shades, pink or golden undertones, and is appropriate for all skin types. It is available exclusively at Harrods and Clinique.co.uk this month, priced £25 for 40ml, and will launch nationwide at Selfridges, John Lewis and selected Clinique counters from 2 March 2012. Have you tried the Clinique BB Cream? Would love to hear your thoughts.