While tinted moisturizers are still on the market and probably still have many fans, alphabet creams are all the rage now. The alphabet formulations, like BB cream, CC cream, and soon DD creams, have joined tinted moisturizers and standard foundation on the shelves as potential skin-perfecting products. But what do they all do? What’s the difference between them? And most importantly, which should you use? Read on to find out more…

BB Creams: BB creams are an Asian import that has become super popular in the last two years. BB creams provide coverage with added skin care benefits like SPF and antioxidants. The list goes on depending on what brand you choose. They’re lighter than foundation, but heavier than tinted moisturizers. While the additives in BB creams can have the same efficacy as they would in stand-alone serums, be careful about counting on BB creams, especially for adequate sun protection, even if the BB Cream contains an SPF. Because BB Creams are generally tinted, women use less on their face resulting in inadequate protection and, in some cases, inadequate moisture.

CC Creams: The difference between BB and CC creams is subtle. CC generally stands for “color correcting” and the products are meant to address issues like redness or sallowness (usually with light-diffusing particles), whereas BB creams, which stands for beauty or blemish balm, are like lighter foundation with a few skin care benefits thrown in. CC Creams are color correctors and will be lighter on the skin than a BB Cream. They have more of a whipped, light, fluffy feel and finish.

BB and CC creams are marketed for separate issues, and are theoretically different. Where it gets most confusing here is that BB/CC benefits and coverage vary greatly among different brands. So, you have to be diligent in knowing what ingredients are in your makeup, including the creams and most importantly, trying them out to figure out what you want and need, and because these creams usually come in only a few shades, it is important to test them out beforehand to ensure a more exact skin match and decent coverage.

Article by: Kelly Abrahams

Why not take a look at this Clinique CC Cream article to find out more about CC Creams.

Read BB Creams and CC Creams product reviews