In Thailand’s hot and humid climate heavily influenced by monsoons, it can be hard to preserve a good complexion because of all the sweating. Local women have long used talcum powder to keep their faces looking fresh and oil-free. Seeing its effectiveness, several beauty brands started using talc to produce BB powder, a versatile and affordable product for all skin types and complexions.
Talc is a clay mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate. It is widely used in powdered from (talcum powder) as a cosmetic due to its absorbent properties. Talcum powder absorbs excess oil and sweat from the skin surface, relieves irritated skin and prevents inflammation. When used as a facial powder, it blends with any complexion and creates a fresh, natural look.
In addition to talcum powder, cosmetic BB powders can contain other minerals such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide and aluminosilicates. Zinc oxide has deodorizing and antibacterial properties; it is widely used in medicine to treat various skin conditions. In addition, nanoparticles of zinc oxide provide strong protection against UV radiation and help to prevent sunburn. Thanks to containing zinc oxide, BB powders from Thailand have sunscreen properties, which is very important considering the country’s climate.
Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that has a wide range of applications. In cosmetic and skincare products, it is commonly used as sunscreen because of its strong ultraviolet light absorbing capabilities. Titanium dioxide is safer to use for children or people with sensitive skin than octinoxate, oxybenzone and other organic sunscreen compounds. In BB powders, it is combined with zinc oxide for a better sunscreen effect. Iron oxide is a mineral colourant that gives the powder a beige tone, and aluminosilicates produce an absorbent and matte effect. Some BB powders also contain mica, a type of mineral that makes the skin look glowing.
In addition to minerals, different beauty brands add other natural ingredients to their BB powders. For example, the famous Pond’s BB Magic Powder contains niacinamide (vitamin B3). Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to treat and prevent acne breakouts. Another popular brand, Natriv, formulates its BB powders with plant extracts (for example, mulberry, kinnikinnick, licorice, aloe vera) and snail secretion filtrate. Snail secretion filtrate is valued for its anti-age and rejuvenating effect. It stimulates skin regeneration and helps to combat pigmentation and acne scars.
BB powders produced in Thailand are so popular because of their light, loose texture and their ability to blend with any complexion. Thanks to their high absorbency, BB powders keep the skin looking fresh and glowing in any weather. They keep oily shine at bay, even skin tone, leave a light shimmering finish, and effectively protect the skin from sun radiation. And all this without clogging your pores or making your face look cakey with make-up!
Although some women prefer compact powders, loose BB powers are very easy to apply as well once you get used to them. All you need to do is apply a little powder to the back of your hand and then transfer it to your face and neck using your fingertips or a make-up brush. Don’t use too much powder; if there’s any residue left on your skin, you can remove it with a cotton pad or dry, clean make-up brush.
You can buy natural BB powders by Pond’s and Natriv in our online shop Organic Store. We also have other cosmetic products from Thailand such as mineral salt deodorants, solid perfume and toothpastes. You can pay for your order by card, and it will be delivered internationally to your country of residence*.
* unfortunately, we do not ship to Spain due to certain customs restrictions