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If your skin is looking dull and lackluster, like a dusty moonscape, you might want to try Bobbi Brown’s Extra Illuminating Moisture Balm. This hydrating and subtly glowing cream adds a nice, even radiance to your skin, making your foundation look fresh or leaving your bare skin with a natural dewiness. Despite its rich-sounding name, it’s not greasy or heavy and works well on most skin types. It’s an effortless way to add some light to your complexion without resorting to strong highlighters.
The balm has a firmer texture than traditional balms and is like a toned-down version of MAC’s Strobe Cream or NARS’ Illuminator. Imagine mixing a few drops of Benefit’s High Beam into your face cream for an idea of the effect. It’s not over the top, but you’ll notice a difference when you use it.
I’ve used the original version with its black packaging for quite some time, but it’s been updated with new white packaging and two new shades. The original is now called “Bare Glow,” with a light champagne tint, accompanied by “Pink Glow” and “Golden Glow.” These new shades offer a bit more pigment, with the pink being slightly cool and the golden shade serving as a great base for summer skin.
This balm is perfect for anyone looking for a product that moisturizes, preps the skin for makeup, and adds a bit of cosmetic brightness. It serves as both the last step of skincare and the first step of makeup. While it’s not heavy enough to be my only moisturizer, especially as my skin gets drier, it layers well with other skincare products. It’s ideal if you like the idea of luminosity without the intense look that highlighters can sometimes give.
For those with oily or combination skin, it might be best to use it sparingly on the forehead, nose, and chin if you’re skipping foundation, as it might look a bit too shiny in those areas. But overall, it gives a natural, radiant look that’s much more flattering than an all-over sweaty shine.
If you’ve been curious about Victoria Beckham’s Morning Aura, you’ll find Bobbi Brown’s balm similarly priced. And if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, L’Oreal’s Lumi Magique primer provides a great glow when layered over a moisturizer, especially for oily skin.