Sorry to break the news...

Here are some of the truths about two of the latest beauty trends, uncovered! 

Beauty fads come and go just as easily as fashion trends, there is one thing that seems to keep coming up this season that I thought I would explain a bit better. 

Everybody lately is obsessed with B.B creams! This miracle cream that is an all in one, skin illuminating, protecting and nourishing at the same time whilst evening out the skin tone naturally.. Most people don't even know what it is- they just know that they NEED a B.B cream! 

The truth is that it's just a tinted moisturiser with sunscreen, the same kind that have been around for years. I think Garnier were the first to label it as B.B (which stands for beauty balm) and everybody else has followed suit. They aren't enough to use on their own and best to be treated as a sheer foundation, if you simply must have one! 

Why isn't it enough to use for your skin? The moisturiser isn't as effective as a premium product as the tint and the sunscreen dilute any of the important hydrating properties and the sunscreen factor is usually so low that it's not enough (for all day protection) so you will STILL need a good moisturiser underneath and 30+ to protect your skin properly.  Due to the tint  in the product you still need to take it off at night so you need a night cream as well, don't fool yourself into thinking its a natural moisturiser! 

Mineral makeup has been another huge trend in the last few years although many people don't actually know what it is or how it benefits your skin, they just want something mineral because they think it's more pure.

Proper mineral makeup is great for people who have allergies to certain chemicals or a true sensitive skin and can provide coverage as well as sun protection and some minimal anti inflammatory effects.

However  the guidelines on how companies label products aren't very regulated they can claim to be 'mineral' and actually only have 2 or 3 natural ingredients in them. Words like 'pure' and 'natural' can also be used by companies freely so it is very important to know what you are buying, do your research and check the ingredients properly.

Mineral makeup is also not necessarily better for your skin as minerals come from the earth and its it's effectively putting dirt on your face so it can still clog your pores and cause breakouts if your skin is prone to congestion. 

Both of these products reflect our desire to have our skin look natural and clear, we like sheer coverage and products with benefits. So although each of these beauty trends do have their place the absolute best thing for your skin is to not put any makeup on at all if you don't have to. Use quality products to address any concerns and maintain a healthy skin and make sure you know what you are buying and why!