Maybelline India Clear Glow BB Stick Review and Swatches in Fawn

By Contributor: Swati Rao

Picture this- the entire blogosphere is buzzing with rave reviews for this supposedly revolutionary product so you snag it up the first chance you get but are left utterly devastated when the product turns out a dud for you. That happened to me with the Maybelline BB Cream, so I was all the more hesitant about getting this. I had so many expectations from their BB Cream, but it did not do anything for me. Absolutely nothing at all! So, I had very little faith in any new Maybelline product which claimed to be even remotely BB-ish. I tested this at the counter numerous times and made it mine only after being reassured and satisfied.

Maybelline BB Stick comes in the form of a twist up stick in packaging reminiscent of their BB Creams. The cap is transparent and shuts securely with a click. The shade name is given at the bottom to make our lives easier. The packaging does not feel flimsy, so you can easily carry it around in your bag.

There are just two shades available: Fawn and Radiance (gasp!). Why so measly, Maybelline? I chose the darker one named – Fawn for my medium dark NC 44 skin tone and I must say it is a pretty good match, if not a tab bit grey-er. The texture is smooth and easy to use, but not so creamy that it would succumb to the Delhi heat. It is pretty pigmented in a single swipe, gives decent coverage without clogging my pores and making my skin oily. I was worried that it would melt off my face in a couple of hours but that did not happen, so rejoice! Staying on for around 5-6 hours at the very least, it does not fade away with time like a lot of other drugstore foundations.

The formula claims to contain SPF 21 AND PA+++, but since I meticulously apply sunscreen every time I go out, I cannot comment on this claim.

Oh, how I love thee:

• It is an affordable version of a light coverage foundation.
• Apt for Indian weather as it can withstand extreme heat and humidity.
• Absolutely waterproof. I tested, not intentionally.
• Staying power of 5-6 hours.
• Does not clog my pores.
• Texture is easy to work with.

Oh, how I loathe thee:

• Maybelline, do you seriously believe Indians come in just two skin tones? TchTch! I found my match, but many won’t.
• Might not be conducive to layering in order to achieve medium coverage.

Let’s check the photos and swatches:

Price: Rs.250

Rating: 4/5

Recommendation: If you find a match, get it! You have nothing to lose with it (This is coming from someone who is always wary of drugstore base makeup). If you are looking for decent coverage, SPF, foundation and concealer all rolled into on product then get it.