BB Cream vs CC Cream: What’s the Difference?

What is BB Cream?

BB cream stands for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm.” It is a multi-functional makeup product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup. Originally developed in Germany in the 1960s to protect patients’ skin after laser surgery, BB cream became popular in Asia in the 1980s and 1990s, and then gained popularity worldwide in the early 2010s.

BB cream typically provides coverage, hydration, sun protection, and other skin benefits such as anti-aging or brightening. It can be used as a tinted moisturizer, a light foundation, or a primer, depending on the formula and the desired coverage. BB cream is suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin, and it comes in a range of shades to match different skin tones.

What is CC Cream?

CC cream stands for “color-correcting” or “complexion-correcting.” It is a type of makeup product that is designed to address specific skin concerns, such as redness, discoloration, and uneven skin tone. CC cream was first introduced in Korea in the late 2000s, and then became popular worldwide in the early 2010s.

CC cream is similar to BB cream in that it provides coverage, hydration, and sun protection, but it also contains color-correcting pigments that help to neutralize or counteract skin imperfections. For example, a green-tinted CC cream can help to reduce the appearance of redness, while a peach-tinted CC cream can help to brighten dull or sallow skin. CC cream is also suitable for all skin types and comes in a range of shades to match different skin tones.

What Are the Key Differences Between BB Cream and CC Cream?

While BB cream and CC cream share some similarities, such as providing coverage, hydration, and sun protection, there are several key differences between them:

1. Coverage: BB cream tends to provide lighter coverage than CC cream, which is designed to address specific skin concerns.

2. Function: BB cream is a multi-functional product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup, while CC cream is specifically formulated to color-correct or address specific skin concerns.

3. Texture: BB cream typically has a lighter texture than CC cream, which can feel thicker or more velvety due to the color-correcting pigments.

4. Shades: BB cream and CC cream both come in a range of shades to match different skin tones, but CC cream may have more specific shades to address different skin concerns, such as redness or dullness.

5. Ingredients: While BB cream and CC cream both contain skincare ingredients, such as antioxidants and sunscreen, CC cream may have additional ingredients to address specific skin concerns, such as brightening agents or anti-aging ingredients.

Which One Should You Choose: BB Cream or CC Cream?

The choice between BB cream and CC cream depends on your skin concerns and personal preferences. If you want a multi-functional product that provides light coverage and skincare benefits, and you don’t have specific skin concerns, then BB cream may be the right choice for you. However, if you have specific skin concerns, such as redness, discoloration, or uneven skin tone, then CC cream may be a better option for you. CC cream can also be layered under or over BB cream for additional color correction and coverage.

When choosing a BB cream or CC cream, it’s important to consider your skin type, shade range, and ingredients. Look for a product that matches your skin tone, provides adequate sun protection, and contains skincare ingredients that are beneficial for your skin type. You may also want to try different formulas and textures to find the one that feels the most comfortable and provides the desired coverage.

Tips for Using BB Cream and CC Cream

Here are some tips for using BB cream and CC cream:

1. Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply a lightweight moisturizer and wait a few minutes for it to absorb before applying BB cream or CC cream.

2. Apply the product in small dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Use your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush to blend the product evenly.

3. Layer the product as needed for additional coverage. You can also use a concealer or a powder to cover any remaining imperfections.

4. Apply sunscreen if your BB cream or CC cream doesn’t contain enough SPF. Sun protection is important to prevent skin damage and premature aging.

5. Remove the product thoroughly at the end of the day. Use a gentle cleanser or makeup remover to avoid clogging your pores and causing breakouts.

6. Store the product in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures. This can cause the product to spoil or change its texture.

7. Experiment with different brands and formulas to find the one that works best for your skin type and concerns. Don’t be afraid to mix and match BB cream and CC cream to customize your coverage and color correction.