Review | Maybelline Dream Pure BB 8-in-1 BB Cream for oily skin

Recently I came to the conclusion that BB creams just don't seem to suit my skin type. Most aim to moisturise and hydrate the skin, but as my skin is combination/oily and therefore prone to shine, I've often found that moisturising drugstore BB creams turn to a not-so-hot greasy mess a few hours after applying. Additionally most drugstore BB creams offer lighter coverage than a foundation, whereas I'm a fan of high coverage formulas due to regular break-outs and blemishes that I'm always desperate to hide. So, while BB creams seem like a great option for many, I came to the conclusion that my skin type just isn't suited to drugstore BB creams, based on ones I've tried in the past (including Garnier, Revlon and Rimmel) *sad face*

However! I've been desperate to find something that feels light and comfortable on my skin during this heat wave we're currently experiencing, as my usual high coverage foundation is feeling a little uncomfortable, and while in Boots I stumbled upon Maybelline Dream Pure BB 8-in-1 BB Cream containing 2% spot fighting Salicylic Acid, designed for oily skin. Maybelline also have a Dream Fresh BB Cream available, which seems more like other drugstore BB cream formulas, and which a few of my friends have raved about in the past. When I spotted Dream Pure, aimed at oily skin, I had to give the little tube a go... Could this be the BB cream I've been waiting for?

Maybelline Dream, Pure BB 8-in-1 BB Cream, 30ml, £6.99 at Boots

Maybelline Dream Pure BB 'Light'

'Light' slightly blended

'Light' fully blended

Dream Pure boasts eight promising claims, as detailed on the back of the packaging:

1. Conceals imperfections
2. Helps protect against the appearance of blemishes
3. Oil-free, non-greasy 
4. Minimizes the appearance of pores 
5. Clarifies the skin's look
6. Conceals redness
7. Hydrates and smooths
8. Complements skin tone

Arguably numbers 1, 5 and 6 are very similar... But as I really like this product, I'll let that slide ;)

I went for 'Light', the palest shade available, and it matches my skin tone perfectly (8). I've found that BB creams often tend to have pinker undertones but this has a good balance in that it isn't too pink or too yellow. It's just right! It creates a nice healthy glow, as if I've caught a hint of sun, yet it isn't at all orange. It has a lovely non-greasy consistency and dries to a comfortable matte finish without emphasising dry patches or clogging around the nose/eyebrows. My skin feels smooth, soft and hydrated without feeling at all overloaded or greasy (3, 7). Pores are definitely minimised and the level of coverage is light to medium, verging more on the medium side which is perfect for my blemish prone skin (4, 1). It really helps even out my skin tone, covering past acne scars and small pigmentation patches as well as blackheads (1, 6), although I do still need to use concealer on current spots and blemishes to give full coverage. 

In terms of protecting against the appearance of blemishes (2) I have noticed that existing spots are healing quite quickly and I haven't had any major break-outs while using this. I like that it contains Salicylic Acid as it feels as if it might be helping to clear my skin throughout the day rather than clogging my pores, and it also contains SPF 15 which is great for all year round sun protection. I've found this makes a lovely base for concealer and blusher, and I tend to set it with loose powder to anchor it in place for as long as possible. 

Unfortunately it isn't quite as long lasting as I would like; after three hours or so I need to use blotting paper and pressed powder to tame emerging shine, which is a little disappointing. Yet it does feel so light and fresh on the skin, and not at all heavy like some of the full coverage foundations I prefer wearing in colder weather when I'm less likely to feel as if my skin is suffocating beneath layers of make-up in the heat! 

I will definitely be repurchasing this when it runs out as it feels lovely on the skin, helps even out my skin tone and blur blemishes, and it has a great matte finish. It works really well with my Collection Lasting Perfection liquid concealer applied on top over more stubborn blemishes, and it matches my skin tone so well. I think I'll try to find a good primer to help anchor it to my skin for longer, as it would be a shame to give up on a product that feels and looks so good overall.

To answer my previous question, it appears Maybelline Dream Pure is the BB cream I've been waiting for... I am now a true BB convert!

Maybelline Pure BB 8-in-1 BB Cream is available at Boots

Do you have a favourite summer base? I'd love to hear your thoughts!