Beauty Clinic: Can I find a darker BB cream?

Q. I am looking for a BB cream that comes in a shade for a darker skin tone.  I would like something that gives a bit of coverage.

A.  BB creams are perfect for this time of year and many do offer the coverage of a lightweight foundation - enough to cover little flaws and even out skin tone.  These multi-tasking products – BB stood originally for ‘blemish balm’ but is now mostly taken to mean ‘beauty balm’ – also moisturise, and often give some protection against UV rays.

The product we suggest for darker skin tones is Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35, which has three new darker shades – Dark, Deep and Rich – and offers five skin-perfecting benefits.

As well as giving that vital little bit of coverage, it draws moisture to your skin and also helps control oil.  It can brighten dull skin instantly – and promises longer term benefits too.  It also contains a natural peptide argireline, to help reduce the look of wrinkles, plus it promises to shield skin against UVA and UVB.  (NB This doesn't mean it will protect you against being out in the sun all day – you would need to top up every couple of hours or use a long-lasting sun prep for that.  But this will give you a bit of protection on the way to work: just top up if you go out at lunchtime.)

Additionally, the Iman Cosmetics Collection has just launched its paraben-free Skin Tone Evener BB Crème SPF 15, £23.99 for 30ml, especially to meet the needs of tan, olive and brown skin tones - we actually flagged it up on the site a couple of days ago in Beauty Bible Loves - so to read more, click here.  This comes in six shades, Sand Light and Medium, Clay Medium and Medium-Deep, and Earth Medium and Deep.  This also promises to fight hyperpigmentation.  (But again, since UV rays are the biggest culprit in hyperpigmentation, don't rely on it for sun-bathing or beach-time.)

We constantly encourage brands to produce a wider shade range, as we get so much feedback from women like you who have trouble finding a good match - and we're pleased to be able to tell you about two make-up names, at least, who understand that there's every shade of gorgeousness out there...

• Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35/£29 for 30 ml at www.johnlewis.com - buy here

• Iman Skin Tone Evener BB Crème SPF 15/£23.99 for 30ml is available in store - to find a store near you, click here