I was caught by surprise when, after a meeting, I was asked by a colleague what a BB cream was and what brand she should get. I presumed most girls knew about it, especially since many cosmetic brands have come out with their own BB creams.

BB, or beauty balm, is an all-in-one facial product that acts as a serum, moisturizer, foundation, sunblock and primer. I was first introduced to this when we were sent to Korea over a year ago. Apparently, this was the secret to Korean celebrities’ porcelainlike complexion.

I wasn’t sold on this cream at first. When I tried it, I felt it was too thick; instead of looking dewy, I looked sticky. I remember asking for makeup remover after. I would receive BB creams from different brands, but I didn’t even try them and just give them away.

Fave brand

About a month ago, I wasn’t able to replenish my foundation; that’s when I found Becca Mineral Tint SPF30+ among my stash. Although I consider Becca one of my fave brands (its Lost Week End eye shadow palette and beach tints are must-haves), when I read that the product was a high-performance foundation, I knew it was a beauty balm.

I nervously applied the product, and—guess what?—I was so happy with the results.

Since my Korean BB cream experience, I have stuck to my beauty routine—moisturize, apply SPF, then foundation. But now, with Becca’s Mineral Tint SPF30+—an ultra-lightweight broad spectrum sunscreen—I felt like I wasn’t wearing anything, though my skin was reaping all the benefits of a BB cream! So that’s my tried-and-tested answer to what BB cream one should get: Becca.

For those who are still using SPF and foundation separately, and for those who are in need of a fresh change in beauty products, here’s one I can vouch for. It is available in three tinted shades: light, medium and tan.

Becca’s Mineral Tint SPF30+ Sunscreen says it offers high-level protection against UVA and UVB rays, thanks to Micronized Zinc Oxide, a highly effective mineral SPF ingredient. Because of Becca’s own zinc oxide-based formulation, the cream is extremely lightweight and doesn’t feel like it sits on your skin; rather, it becomes like second skin in texture.

I use it alone or with makeup, and it makes my skin look flawless. This product is suitable for all skin types—yes, even if you have oily skin.

Laura Mercier bath and body line

I think the best way to relax is to take a long bath, or even a few minutes without any interruption. I have to tell everyone in advance that I need a break and not to knock on the door for anything.

And then I indulge with Laura Mercier’s bath and body line. My personal pick is vanilla. I use the bath, gel and lotion, and I smell amazing until the next day. I know that layering is the best way to keep the scent long-lasting, but sometimes it’s just not possible. So when I need to de-stress, Laura Mercier’s body and bath line is my remedy. For those who think their partners need a break, this would make the perfect gift. Men also love the smell of vanilla.

Holiday picks

Speaking of giving, Christmas is just around the corner, and for those who have friends or nieces who love makeup, check out Stila’s holiday offerings. What I love most about this brand is, it is reasonably priced and packaged well.

For your man, you may want to check out Giorgio Armani. My husband loves the scent of Armani Sport Code, and he also complimented me when I used Armani Code Luna.