I have been on a BB cream-testing mission (it’s an ongoing thing, really!) and Freshel WHITE C Mineral BB Cream UV SPF41 PA++ is one that I have been using/testing on and off for quite some time.
The texture is quite light and surprisingly dry, despite its creamy consistency — not that it’s drying, but it doesn’t have that emollient ‘balm’ texture that a lot of Asian BB creams have. It works far better on moisturized skin as it really emphasizes any dry, flaky patches your skin might have. I kept on waiting to feel that mid-day dryness that I often get with ‘drier’ textured products, but it never came. My skin is slightly on the drier side so perhaps oilier skin might find its texture just right.
It’s not oil-free but it gives a dry, semi-matte finish that lasts a good full day without patchiness or sliding around. As with any BB cream or foundation, you’d need a concealer for proper blemishes, acne marks, or dark circles, but I would say that Freshel White C Mineral BB Cream‘s coverage is quite substantial because it’s a very buildable formula. It evens out skin tone and covers up minor spots well.
For Japanese BB creams, I generally use the lightest shade but sometimes it’s still a bit too dark — which looks fine when blended well unless it oxidizes during the day. Natural Beige (lightest of the 2 available) is actually slightly lighter than Hada-Labo BB Moist Cream‘s lightest shade (also called Natural Beige), but with the same yellow tone.
I haven’t quite formed my opinion on whether the added ‘skincare’ ingredients in Asian BB creams will actually do anything — namely the hyperpigmentation-fighting and acne-healing functions. Admittedly, I have fairly good skin so neither functions would really make a noticeable difference. Freshel White C’s whitening benefits are from fruit and plant extracts — not the more prevalent (and perhaps more effective) vitamin C or arbutin. I would look else where if you’re looking for a functional BB cream, but as an all-in-one or simply an alternative to regular face makeup, Freshel White C Mineral BB Cream UV is a good, inexpensive option to consider for those with light-coloured skin.
