As wintery weather and central heating season approaches, your skin may start playing up. Whether you're suffering from dryness or redness thanks to moisture-zapping environments and harsh weather, it can be hard to diminish the effects.
As an eczema sufferer myself, I know this to be true. I want something that hydrates my skin and covers redness, but at the same time won't settle into dryness-induced fine lines. Am I asking too much? Perhaps, but I have found one product that ticks all those boxes: Erborian's BB Crème, £41. This hero buy has long been hailed by many as a one-stop-shop for glowing, even skin. However, it's by no means an affordable solution for all.
Enter, L'Oréal Paris Magic BB Cream. Usually £11.99, you can get it for £8.71 in four shade choices today thanks to a flash sale. I've tried it myself and it's a great option for anyone, not just anyone on a budget.
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Zoe says: As I say, I do swear by Erborian, and I think if you have a bit of budget to spend on something, you won't be disappointed by it. Saying that, L'Oreal's version is an excellent alternative. I've used it several times and I'm always very happy with the results. When my eczema flares up on my cheeks, it covers redness with a very small amount. I also like how it doesn't feel tacky or cakey on the skin, but it's also very moisturising at the same time. I keep a tube of this on standby all autumn/winter.
Reviewers say:One Amazon shopper says: "I am 48 and I have suffered with red cheeks and nose from rosacea for years. I have not only given up on finding a cream that takes the redness away, but also accepted that everything that would cover it feels unnatural, doesn't let my skin breat and looks cakey. I've just put up with it and avoided being photographed closely etc.
"I cannot believe the difference it makes in my confidence. I don't even have to apply a lot, it feels pleasant on my skin, my face has a lovely, healthy colour. As the redness doesn't show I can use lipstick again, that I couldn't use for the last few years because it accentuated the redness of my face. The same with pinkish/redish clothing. I can wear them again. By the end of the day my face is still not red and it definitely doesn't irritate my skin."
Another adds: "I do not wear makeup or foundation, but as I'm getting older (47) my skin is getting blemishes and is quite uneven. Acne (must be the menopause!), old acne scars, red nose and cheeks, dark patches under my eyes... this stuff covers the lot! Yet looks natural, can still see my freckles so doesn't look like I'm wearing make up.
"My boyfriend instantly knew I'd done something but couldn't tell what! V easy to apply, foolproof for someone like me who doesn't wear makeup! Lasts all day unless you touch your face, blow your nose etc which is to be expected (& a big reason why I don't wear make up!). Can't feel anything, it's not dry or greasy, feels like my natural skin. A godsend product for me, makes me feel confident again. No scent. Gives my skin a flawless, consistent look with little effort. A little goes a long way so this tube will last a long time."
Another shopper, Lu, gave a glowing review alongside a before and after snap: "Have been struggling to find something to cover my rosacea on days when I don't want to wear full make up, especially with a holiday abroad coming up. This product did not dissapoint! Exceeded my expectations. Will be buying another one to take on holiday. Great to use as it is or as a primer/concealer before applying foundation."
You can shop L'Oréal Paris Magic BB Cream for £8.71 here.
