What is the Difference Between BB and CC Cream?

BB creams and CC creams have become staples in many makeup routines, offering a middle ground between skincare and foundation. While these multi-purpose products share some similarities, they serve different purposes and cater to different skin concerns. Understanding the distinctions between them will help you choose the right product for your needs.

What Does BB Cream Stand For?

BB cream stands for "Beauty Balm" or "Blemish Balm," depending on the brand. Originally developed in Germany in the 1960s by dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek, BB creams were created to protect and soothe skin after laser treatments and other dermatological procedures.

BB creams started gaining mainstream popularity in South Korea during the 2000s, where they were reformulated as a multitasking cosmetic product. Korean beauty brands transformed BB cream into an all-in-one solution that combined skincare benefits with light coverage, and this version eventually made its way to Western markets around 2011.

What Does CC Cream Stand For?

CC cream stands for "Colour Correcting" or "Complexion Correcting" cream. These products emerged after BB creams became popular, marketed as an improved or more targeted version. CC creams were developed to address specific skin tone concerns such as redness, dullness, or sallowness, while still providing the multi-tasking benefits that made BB creams successful.

What Are the Main Differences Between BB and CC Cream?

While BB and CC creams share the goal of simplifying your beauty routine, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Which Cream is Better for Different Skin Types?

Choosing between BB and CC cream often depends on your skin type and specific concerns.

Dry Skin: BB creams are generally better suited for dry skin due to their more emollient formulas. They provide hydration along with coverage, though you may still need to apply moisturizer underneath if your skin is very dry.

Oily Skin: CC creams tend to work better for oily skin types because of their lighter texture and more matte finish. However, some BB creams are specifically formulated for oily skin, so it's worth checking the product details. Those with oily skin should look for oil-free or mattifying formulations in either category.

Combination Skin: Both products can work for combination skin, though you may need to experiment to find the right formula. CC creams might be preferable if your T-zone tends to get particularly shiny throughout the day.

Sensitive Skin: BB creams with their origins in post-procedure skincare may be gentler, but this varies significantly by brand. Always check the ingredient list for potential irritants regardless of which type you choose.

What Skincare Benefits Do BB and CC Creams Offer?

Both BB and CC creams typically include skincare ingredients beyond just coverage, though the specific benefits vary by product.

Most BB and CC creams contain SPF, usually ranging from SPF 15 to SPF 50. However, it's important to note that you would need to apply a considerable amount of product to achieve the stated SPF protection, which often results in too much coverage. Many dermatologists recommend using a separate sunscreen underneath.

Common beneficial ingredients in these creams include antioxidants like vitamin C and E, which help protect against environmental damage. Hyaluronic acid appears in many formulas to provide hydration, while niacinamide is included for its brightening and pore-minimizing properties.

Despite their skincare ingredients, BB and CC creams should not replace your regular skincare routine. They work best when applied over a proper moisturizer and sunscreen, rather than as standalone skincare products.

How to Apply BB and CC Cream?

The application method for both BB and CC creams is relatively similar, though the technique can affect the final result.

Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply your regular skincare products first and allow them to absorb before applying your BB or CC cream. If you're using a separate sunscreen, let it set for a few minutes before proceeding.

You can apply these creams with your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush. Fingers work well for a natural, light application and help warm the product for easier blending. A damp makeup sponge provides more even coverage and a smooth finish. Brushes offer more precise application but may leave streaks if not blended properly.

Use a small amount to start, as these products are meant to be lightweight. You can always build up coverage where needed. Blend outward from the centre of your face, paying particular attention to the hairline, jawline, and around the nose to avoid obvious lines.

For areas that need more coverage, you can layer the product or use a concealer on top. Setting with a light dusting of translucent powder can help with longevity, especially if you have oily skin.

Can BB and CC Creams Be Used Instead of Foundation?

BB and CC creams can replace foundation for many people, but whether they work as a substitute depends on your coverage needs and expectations.

These products work well as foundation alternatives when you want a natural, light coverage look for everyday wear. They're ideal for running errands, casual outings, or situations where you want to enhance your skin without looking heavily made up. Many people find them perfectly adequate for work or daytime activities.

However, BB and CC creams have limitations that make them unsuitable replacements for foundation in certain situations. The coverage is typically on the lighter side, which means they won't effectively conceal significant blemishes, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, or other pronounced skin issues. If you need to cover these issues, you'll likely need traditional foundation or additional concealer.

For special events, photography, or long days where you need makeup to last, foundation typically performs better. BB and CC creams don't have the same staying power and can fade or separate throughout the day, especially in hot or humid conditions. Professional settings or formal occasions might also call for the more polished, even finish that foundation provides.

Shade matching can be another issue. Foundation lines typically offer extensive shade ranges with various undertones, while BB and CC creams often come in limited shades. This makes it difficult for people with very fair or very deep skin tones to find an exact match, which can result in an unnatural appearance.

The best approach for many people is to have both options available. Use BB or CC cream for casual, everyday situations where you want quick, easy coverage, and reach for foundation when you need more coverage, longevity, or a more refined finish. Some people also use BB or CC cream as a base and add foundation only where they need extra coverage.

Which One Should You Choose?

BB and CC creams both offer convenient, multi-tasking solutions for those seeking light coverage with some skincare benefits. BB creams provide more coverage and hydration, making them suitable for dry skin or those wanting an all-in-one product. CC creams focus on colour correction with a lighter texture, working well for oily skin or those primarily concerned with evening out skin tone.

The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific skin type, concerns, and coverage preferences. Neither product is objectively better, they simply serve different purposes. You may even find that you prefer one for certain occasions and the other for different situations.

Remember that while these creams are convenient, they work best as part of a complete skincare routine rather than as replacements for proper cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Browse our BB and CC cream collection to find options suited to your skin type and needs.