While they all aim to even out your skin tone and create a flawless complexion, there are vital differences between them. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between BB cream, CC cream, and foundation to help you decide which product is right for you and on top of that – how to choose the right shade.
BB Cream
BB cream stands for “blemish balm” or “beauty balm.” It is a lightweight, all-in-one product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup. BB creams typically provide light to medium coverage and have added skincare benefits, such as SPF and antioxidants. They are ideal for those who want to streamline their routine and achieve a natural, no-makeup makeup look.
One of the benefits of BB cream is that it is often sheerer and more natural-looking than traditional foundation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more natural, no-makeup makeup look. It is also a great choice for those with dry or sensitive skin, as many BB creams are formulated with ingredients that help to hydrate and soothe the skin.
Another benefit of BB cream is its versatility as it can be used alone as a tinted moisturizer, or as a base for other makeup products like concealer or powder. Some BB creams also contain color-correcting properties that help to neutralize redness or discoloration in the skin. With added tone, like a green undertone, it will help mask red spots. Overall, BB cream is a great choice for those who want a multi-functional product that combines the benefits of skincare and makeup.
CC Cream
CC cream, also known as color-correcting cream or complexion corrector cream, is a type of makeup product that provides coverage while also helping to even out skin tone and improve the overall appearance of the skin. CC cream is similar to BB cream in that it is a multi-functional product that combines the benefits of both skincare and makeup, but it typically focuses more on correcting skin tone rather than providing coverage.
CC cream typically contains a higher concentration of color-correcting pigments than BB cream, which help to neutralize any redness, sallowness, or discoloration in the skin. Some CC creams also contain light-reflecting particles or brightening ingredients that help to give the skin a more radiant, luminous look. In addition to its color-correcting properties, CC cream also often contains skincare benefits such as antioxidants, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid that help to hydrate, brighten, and firm the skin. CC cream also often contains SPF to help protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
CC cream provides a more even and natural-looking complexion without feeling heavy or cakey on the skin. It’s a great choice for those who want a more polished, put-together look without the full coverage of traditional foundation.
Foundation
Foundation is used to even out the skin tone and provide coverage for imperfections like blemishes, dark spots, and discoloration. It comes in a range of formulas, finishes, and coverage levels to suit different skin types and preferences. Some formulas are oil-free and designed for oily or acne-prone skin, while others are more hydrating and formulated for dry or mature skin. The finish can be matte, dewy, or somewhere in between, and the coverage level can range from sheer to full.
One of the benefits of the foundation is that it provides more coverage than BB cream or CC cream, making it a great choice for those who want to conceal more significant imperfections or create a more dramatic makeup look. However, this heavier coverage can also make it feel more heavy or cakey on the skin, which can be a drawback for some. Another benefit is that it often comes in a wider range of shades and undertones than BB cream or CC cream, making it easier to find a match for different skin tones. Some foundations also contain skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C to provide additional benefits to the skin.
When choosing a foundation, it’s important to consider your skin type, desired coverage level, and preferred finish. It’s also important to apply foundation evenly and blend it well to avoid any visible lines or streaks.
How to find the perfect shade?
When it comes to BB or CC creams there are fewer shades and that’s ok because the light-covering formula will blend with the skin. But when it comes to foundation, finding the perfect shade can be a tricky task, but here are some tips that can help you:
- Determine Your Skin Undertone: Before you start looking for a foundation, it’s important to determine your skin’s undertone, the color that affects the overall hue of your skin. Undertones are generally categorized as cool (pink, red, or bluish), warm (yellow, peachy, or golden), or neutral (a mix of cool and warm tones).
- Swatch and Compare Shades: When testing foundation shades, it’s important to swatch the shades on your jawline or neck and compare them in natural light. Swatching on the back of your hand can be misleading since the skin tone and undertones are different than those on your face.
- Check the Shade in Different Lighting: Lighting can have a significant impact on the way foundation looks on your skin. After swatching the foundation, check the shade in different lighting conditions, such as natural light, fluorescent light, and indoor lighting.
- Blend it well: Once you’ve found your perfect shade, make sure to blend it well onto your skin using a sponge, brush, or your fingers. Blending is crucial for creating a seamless, natural-looking finish.
To sum up
In conclusion, the main differences between BB cream, CC cream, and foundation lie in their coverage level, added skincare benefits, and finish. BB cream is ideal for those who want a natural, no-makeup makeup look with added skincare benefits. CC cream is ideal for those with uneven skin tone or redness who want to neutralize any discoloration. The foundation is ideal for those who want coverage to create a flawless complexion with a more matte finish. It’s important to consider your skin type and desired finish when choosing between these base makeup products.