Find the best BB Cream & CC Cream for your skin type
Navigating the world of face makeup can be overwhelming, what with the ever-increasing and seemingly endless options from foundations to tinted moisturiser. So where do BB creams fit in the mix? And when did CC creams come on the scene? And how do you know which one you need? We’re so glad you asked. Let’s decode the beauty alphabet.
What is BB Cream?
BB stands for Beauty Balm, a cult-favorite beauty product courtesy of Japan that lands somewhere between a foundation (but more lightweight) and a tinted moisturizer (but with a bit more colour). Their middle-of-the-road status makes BB creams the ideal option for someone who wants more coverage than tinted moisturizer typically provides, but who aren’t hyped on wearing a full face of makeup every day. Plus, these creams tend to have more skincare kickbacks than foundation—like a higher concentration of antioxidants or skin-brightening ingredients, even sun protection. BB creams are a good option for anyone who wants a little bit of lightweight coverage without the heavy feel of foundation.
What is CC Cream?
CC creams (think Colour Correcting) are similar to BB creams in that they are a lightweight alternative to more traditional foundations and tinted moisturisers, but they’re a bit more specific. The main goal of CC creams is to address discoloration, like redness, dark spots or acne. CC creams’ advanced, skincare-packed formulations have more of a whipped texture and tend to wear a bit lighter on the skin that BB creams for a weightless, no-makeup feel that yields natural-looking, opaque coverage.
Choosing between BB or CC creams comes down to what you’re trying to accomplish. If you’re simply looking for a lighter alternative to foundation, but with more punch than a tinted moisturiser go with a BB—just make sure to pick one suited for your skin type, like a BB cream for oily skin if that’s what you have. But if you want that lighter weight options, but need something to help counter redness or not clog a breakout, stick with a CC. Check out the selection at Sephora and shop online to find your next beauty obsession.