BB cream

Lore & Background

What became BB cream was originally formulated in the 1960s in Germany by dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek to protect her patients' skin after facial peels and surgery. It was further developed and innovated for daily commercial use in South Korea in the 1980s, popularized by beauty trends in South Korea and later spread across the globe. BB creams come in a variety of different formulations. Because Korean companies focused initially on the Korean and East Asian markets, they are offered in a limited number of hues. Instead of offering multiple shades for different skin colors, most formulae are designed to oxidize to match the user's skin tone. The skin-brightening properties of the cream, not to be confused with skin lightening or bleaching, as sold in the Asian market are an important element in its popularity. The cream is promoted as a multi-tasker and all-in-one treatment, but Korean women mostly use it as an alternative to foundation, particularly those with Western formulations that tend to be too heavy for their tastes. The coverage is often mineral-based, and is intended to both cover and treat blemishes such as acne, sun spots, and age spots. Some brands claim anti-wrinkle, anti-inflammatory, and soothing effects for their products. Several contain hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.

Reader's Guide

BB cream represents a significant shift in cosmetic marketing and formulation, originating as a medical balm in 1960s Germany and evolving into a global beauty staple through South Korean innovation in the 1980s. Its significance lies in its all-in-one function—combining foundation, moisturizer, and sunscreen—which appealed to consumers seeking simplicity and skin care benefits. The product's spread from East Asia to Western markets in 2012 highlighted cultural differences in cosmetic preferences, with Western formulations sometimes criticized for lacking the skin-caring functions of their Korean counterparts. The BB cream also spurred the development of related products like CC cream (Color Correction cream) and DD cream, and influenced the broader trend toward multi-functional cosmetics. Its legacy includes the introduction of oxidation-based color matching and a focus on skin-brightening properties, though these were sometimes omitted in Western adaptations. The product's popularity in South Korea, where it made up 13 percent of the cosmetics market in 2011, underscores its impact on beauty routines and the global cosmetics industry.

Did You Know?

• BB creams made up 13 percent of the cosmetics market in South Korea in 2011.
• Western cosmetics companies began to launch BB creams in the Western market in 2012.
• Some BB creams are designed to oxidize to match the user's skin tone instead of offering multiple shades.