BB Cream or CC Cream... Which One Do I Choose

Last week we talked about the difference between foundation and tinted moisturizer, but if you’ve been to any cosmetics counters, chances are you’ve been bombarded by an array of alphabet-formulated fluids! So, how do you keep them all straight? And most importantly: which of these potential skin-perfecting options should you use? Don’t worry; I’ll break it all down for you!

BB Creams
BB cream stands for beauty balm and has become very popular in the last two years. It provides coverage with added skin care benefits like SPF and anti-oxidants and comes in a creamy and moisturizing texture. They’re lighter than a foundation but heavier than a tinted moisturizer and will offer you daily sun protection with extra hydration. My recommendation is to put on additional sunscreen and use this as a supplement since it’s tinted, you likely will not slather on as much as you would a traditional sunscreen.

My Favorite BB Creams: Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream and Mac Prep + Prime BB Cream

CC Creams
CC cream stands for color correcting. A CC cream will offer you more of an airy veil of coverage that typically has light-diffusing particles, which help to visually even out your skin tone. So if you struggle with redness this could be a good option for you. The texture is pretty lightweight and absorbs quickly and provides more of a whipped feel and finish.

My Favorite CC Creams: Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream and IT Cosmetics Your Skin but Better CC Cream

BB and CC creams are theoretically different and marketed it that, but they’re pretty darn close to being the same. The biggest difference is mostly centered on how much coverage you’re looking for because that will change with each brand. Just be diligent when reading ingredients and if you don’t have the time or money to try out a bunch of different brands, no problem – Allure put in the work for you! Check out this list to figure out which is best for your specific needs and issues!

Until next time…glitter, shimmer and glow!

Gigi, Licensed Esthetician