This treatment is becoming more popular in the UK despite contentious feedback from practitioners and dermatologists. Beauty writer Layla Turner tests it out to discover if it’s worth trying, including before and after pictures.
Throughout my years as a beauty writer, I’ve tried just about every facial and aesthetic treatment out there — microneedling, fillers, peels, you name it. As someone prone to acne, I’ll give almost anything a shot in pursuit of ‘glass skin’.
After years of battling breakouts (which I’ve finally managed to get under control), I’ve been left with stubborn post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) — those lingering red marks that stick around long after a spot disappears. I rarely leave the house without a full face of foundation, so when I heard about the BB Glow treatment gaining traction in the UK, I knew I had to try it.
This semi-permanent makeup treatment, originally from South Korea, uses microneedling technology to infuse skin-coloured pigments into the skin. It’s said to brighten and even out the complexion while reducing the appearance of blemishes, pigmentation and even fine lines. However, experts are divided on both its benefits and potential risks.
Wondering if it’s worth trying? Here’s my honest review.
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What is a BB Glow treatment?
Like many groundbreaking skincare innovations, BB Glow originated in South Korea and made its way to the UK around 2019.
The treatment is a hybrid between semi-permanent makeup and microneedling. It involves infusing skin-tone-matching pigments into the epidermis, creating a radiant, demi-coverage effect that mimics the look of tinted moisturiser.
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@paigekeeleyy BB GLOW FOUNDATION 🧖🏼♀️ #spmu #bbglow #bbglowtreatment #semipermanentmakeup #spmufoundation Insta – @symmetry.spmu @SYMMETRY
How does BB Glow differ from microneedling?
Microneedling involves using a device or roller with fine needles to puncture the skin, stimulating collagen production and overall skin repair. Aestheticians can perform microneedling at depths of up to 1.9mm, while dermatologists and cosmetic doctors can go even deeper. This process can be used to treat scars, stretch marks and signs of aging.
BB Glow, on the other hand, uses a similar device to needle pigment into the skin. Tamara Little, founder of Tam’s Glam, says that while the process is comparable to microneedling, the needle only penetrates about 0.25mm — far more superficially. This means that if your main concern is deep skin rejuvenation, traditional microneedling might be the better choice.
How long do the results last?
“As with most facial treatments, consistency is key when it comes to BB Glow,” says Tamara.
While results are noticeable immediately, they fade over time due to washing and natural skin renewal. It typically takes at least three to four sessions to achieve longer-lasting results, which can last anywhere from three to six months, depending on your skin type.
One advantage of BB Glow over traditional microneedling is the short waiting period between sessions. Because the needle only reaches the skin’s superficial layers, you can have a follow-up session as soon as one week later, rather than waiting the four to six weeks required with microneedling. This means you may see results faster.
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What are the benefits?
“For those looking to enhance their glow or reduce hyperpigmentation, BB Glow is a great option,” says Tamara.
The treatment offers a brighter, more radiant complexion and claims to help diminish acne marks and dark spots.
Many BB Glow facials also incorporate serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides, which further target pigmentation and can improve skin hydration.
Why is BB Glow controversial?
Since gaining popularity in the UK and US, BB Glow has faced criticism from some skincare professionals. One TikTok dermatologist, Dr Angelo, even called it “one of the dumbest things you can do for your skin”, warning that it could trigger “horrible reactions”.
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@dermangelo #onthisday BB Glow? More like bb NO! #dermreacts #skincare #dermatologist #reaction #reactionvideo #dermangelo
“You’re essentially microneedling pigment into the skin, which can cause granulomatous reactions — your body may treat it as a foreign substance,” he explains.
Another aesthetics nurse echoed similar concerns on TikTok, describing it as “mega dangerous” and warning that it could lead to granulomas, infections and dermatitis.
@slamedical STOP DOING BBGLOW!!!
Despite these warnings, I weighed up the risks and benefits and decided to try it for myself.
My BB Glow facial experience, with before and after results
As mentioned earlier, my biggest skin concern is post-acne pigmentation. My ultimate goal? To feel confident enough to leave the house without foundation.
I booked my first BB Glow session at Tam’s Glam, where I was advised that while I’d see immediate results, it would take at least three to four sessions for the best outcome. At £85 per session, it’s an investment — but still more affordable than many other treatments on the market.
I have a low pain tolerance (I still wince at the memory of polynucleotides — one of the most painful treatments I’ve tried), but I can confidently say BB Glow was virtually painless. In fact, I even found myself drifting off to sleep at times.
The entire treatment took just 45 minutes — quick enough to fit into a lunch break. The best part? No downtime. My skin looked better than ever immediately after the appointment, even without makeup.
Tamara advised me not to wash my face that evening to allow the pigments to fully absorb. As a skincare obsessive, this was a challenge — but I followed instructions. The next morning, I was thrilled to see my redness and PIE significantly reduced, and my skin had a noticeable glow.
Would I get BB Glow again?
Absolutely!
I’ll admit I was hesitant after reading some of the online controversy, but ultimately, deciding whether a treatment is right for you is a personal choice.
As someone with sensitive, reactive skin, I was relieved to experience no irritation or breakouts post-treatment. That said, while the results were impressive, I agree that multiple sessions are necessary for longer-lasting effects. If you’re expecting a full-face foundation look, this isn’t it — but for £85, it visibly improved my biggest skin concern.
As with any cosmetic treatment, do your own research before booking. But if you’re looking for a quick glow-up, BB Glow might just be worth a shot.
BB Glow is not FDA-approved.
Feature image credit: Freepik
