BB Cream vs. CC Cream — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on August 19, 2024
BB Cream, or Blemish Balm, offers light coverage with skincare benefits, while CC Cream, or Color Correcting cream, provides more targeted color correction with added skin benefits.
Difference Between BB Cream and CC Cream
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
BB Cream, short for Blemish Balm or Beauty Balm, provides light coverage, acting as a tinted moisturizer with additional benefits such as sun protection, hydration, and sometimes anti-aging ingredients. It's designed to give a natural, dewy look, making it suitable for daily wear when you want a more effortless makeup routine. CC Cream, standing for Color Correcting cream, focuses more on addressing specific skin issues like redness or sallowness. It offers slightly heavier coverage compared to BB Cream and includes ingredients aimed at correcting color imbalances in the skin.
Both BB and CC Creams come in various shades, though the range might be more limited compared to traditional foundations. When choosing between the two, consider your skin's needs: BB Cream for a natural, light-coverage option with multiple skincare benefits, and CC Cream for more focused color correction with the added advantage of skincare ingredients.
Comparison Chart
Coverage
Light
Medium (heavier than BB Cream)
Main Purpose
Hydration, sun protection, light coverage
Color correction, sun protection
Finish
Natural, dewy
Varied, often more matte than BB Cream
ADVERTISEMENT
Skin Benefits
Moisturizing, SPF, anti-aging
SPF, moisturizing, targeted color correction
Ideal For
Daily wear, natural look
Correcting redness, sallowness, uneven skin tone
Texture
Lighter, more blendable
Thicker, more pigmented
Compare with Definitions
BB Cream
Includes SPF and anti-aging properties.
Her BB Cream protects her skin from the sun while fighting signs of aging.
CC Cream
Provides medium coverage with skincare benefits.
She appreciates the added SPF in her CC Cream.
BB Cream
Offers light, natural coverage.
BB Cream is her go-to for a natural makeup look.
CC Cream
Ideal for targeting specific skin concerns.
CC Cream is perfect for her uneven skin tone and texture.
BB Cream
Focuses on a healthy, dewy finish.
BB Cream leaves her skin looking healthy and dewy.
CC Cream
Often features a matte finish.
CC Cream gives her skin a smooth, matte finish.
BB Cream
A versatile skincare and makeup hybrid.
She uses BB Cream for a quick moisturizing and evening out her skin tone.
CC Cream
Thicker and more pigmented than BB Cream.
The pigmented formula of CC Cream covers her imperfections.
BB Cream
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Even with her sensitive skin, BB Cream doesn't cause irritation.
CC Cream
Designed to correct color imbalances.
CC Cream helps her conceal redness and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Common Curiosities
Are BB Creams and CC Creams suitable for all skin types?
Generally, yes, but it's important to choose a formula that matches your specific skin concerns, such as oil-free versions for oily skin.
Can BB or CC Cream replace my daily moisturizer?
While they offer moisturizing benefits, it's best to use them in conjunction with your regular moisturizer, especially if you have dry skin.
How do I choose the right shade of BB or CC Cream?
Test the product on your jawline to ensure it blends seamlessly with both your face and neck. Brands usually offer a limited shade range, so find the closest match.
Can I use BB Cream and CC Cream together?
Yes, some people use CC Cream to correct specific areas and BB Cream all over for a natural finish.
How often should I reapply BB or CC Cream for effective sun protection?
For continuous sun exposure, reapply every 2 hours, similar to regular sunscreen, to maintain effective protection.
Can BB or CC Cream be used as a primer?
Yes, both can serve as a lightweight primer under foundation for added hydration and coverage, though they're also designed to stand alone for a more natural look.
Can men use BB and CC Creams?
Absolutely, these products are suitable for anyone seeking to even out skin tone, hydrate, and protect their skin, regardless of gender.
Do BB and CC Creams provide enough sun protection?
They can offer supplemental SPF protection, but for prolonged exposure, it's recommended to use a separate sunscreen for optimal protection.
Can I mix BB or CC Cream with my foundation for more coverage?
Yes, mixing them with foundation can customize coverage and finish, offering a tailored approach to meet your skin's needs.
Do BB and CC Creams expire?
Yes, like all cosmetic products, they have an expiration date or a period-after-opening symbol indicating how long they're safe to use.
Are there BB and CC Creams for acne-prone skin?
Absolutely, many brands offer formulas with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, making them suitable for acne-prone skin.
How do I remove BB or CC Cream at the end of the day?
Use a gentle makeup remover or cleanser to thoroughly remove the product, following with your regular skincare routine to ensure your skin is clean.
Is it necessary to set BB or CC Cream with powder?
It depends on your skin type and desired finish. For oily skin or a more matte finish, setting with a light powder can help control shine and prolong wear.
How do BB and CC Creams differ from tinted moisturizers?
While similar, BB and CC Creams typically offer more skincare benefits and targeted solutions like SPF and color correction, whereas tinted moisturizers primarily provide hydration with a hint of color.
Are BB and CC Creams vegan or cruelty-free?
Many brands offer vegan and cruelty-free options, but it's important to check individual product details for these specifications.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Ductile Iron vs. Cast Iron
Next Comparison
Apache vs. NginxAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
