As someone whose high school makeup routine was sourced entirely from the beauty section of my local Target, I’ve always had a soft spot for drugstore makeup. But thanks to TikTok and my job as a beauty writer, these days I’m usually playing with the internet’s favorite bougie face makeup and pricey foundations..but TBH, I’m often disappointed when the results aren’t *quite* what TikTok promised. Hence why I always keep coming back to this $10 BB cream for a glowy everyday look—and I’ve convinced several of my friends to do the same.
The Maybelline Dream Fresh Skin Hydrating BB Cream isn’t a buzzy new product launch or a cult-followed item you’ll see in your fave influencer’s latest haul—but it’s been a staple on drugstore shelves (and my routine) for literal years. It’s an eight-in-one (!) formula that packs a powerful punch: brightening, smoothing, hydrating, evening out skin tone, and enhancing glow, while also offering SPF 30 sun protection. In fact, our editors even named it the best drugstore BB cream money can buy.
I love the semi-sheer formula for everyday wear—it blurs your complexion *just* enough to provide coverage without feeling cakey. The silky, your-skin-but-better finish is quite blendable, so you can apply it with a makeup sponge or just your fingers. It also plays beautifully with concealers (including the cheap but reliable FitMe concealer, and more expensive options like Haus Labs and Tarte) without becoming patchy.
It can be a nightmare trying to find products that match finicky skin types—but I honestly love that this formula is glowy without becoming oily. I usually just apply a light layer of powder in my T-zone to keep excess shine at bay. (Hint: If you prefer a more velvety finish, no sweat—the brand also offers a matte version.) Even a few of my friends with sensitive or acne-prone skin claim that it works well without causing irritation or breakouts.
Possibly my favorite aspect of this beloved BB cream, though, is its longevity. When paired with solid skin prep, a tinted moisturizer (I use the Lumi Glotion), and your fave setting spray (such as this one from e.l.f), it can last upwards of 12 hours without looking worse for wear. I even wore the Maybelline BB cream while running a marathon in 77 percent humidity—and it stayed on, ppl!
My biggest complaint about this otherwise delightful drugstore hero is its limited shade range, which is only available in five hues. (I wear shade 120, BTW.) In the year of our Lord 2025, I would love to see the brand expand its shade range to be more inclusive of deeper skin tones.
Over the years, I’ve successfully converted several friends to drop their pricey foundations in favor of this affordable BB cream pick. And with summer on the horizon, just *think* about how nice it’ll be to ditch thicker formulas for more lightweight coverage! Shop the Maybelline Dream BB Cream to save on your beauty routine below:
Maybelline New York Dream Fresh Skin Hydrating BB cream
Samantha Jones is a senior shopping editor at Hearst Magazines, where she specializes in style, wellness, and home content. She has more than 8 years of editorial experience, with bylines across ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Better Homes & Gardens, PEOPLE, Real Simple, and more. At the office, Samantha can often be found reporting on emerging style trends, curating the perfect 5-minute makeup routine, or wear-testing the latest running shoe launches for a story. She’s also an avid runner, repeat marathoner, and former Division I athlete. (In fact, when she’s not at her desk, she’s probably out for a run.)
