You've no doubt spotted some BB or CC cream when shopping for new make up specifically for older skin, but exactly what is it? And what is the difference between BB and CC cream?
To help you learn more about this kind of makeup, we've rounded up everything you need to know about BB and CC cream, the difference between BB and CC cream as well as the benefits plus some of the best to buy.
What is CC cream?
CC stands for colour corrector and it delivers a 2-in-1 effect, as though you've used a colour correcting concealer underneath your favourite foundation for mature skin. The colour correction helps to neutralise any skin imperfections and discolouring, and it works particularly well for redness.
It has a lighter coverage than foundation, so it's ideal if you don't like the feel of heavier make up or if you're looking for a lighter weight foundation for the summer.
What is BB cream?
BB stands for blemish balm and acts as a tinted moisturiser with a very sheer level of coverage. It helps to make the skin appear brighter, hydrated and smooth, evening out your skin finish.
Many BB creams also contain an SPF to give your skin some protection from the sun, so it's great to use for protection from the environment.
What is the difference between BB and CC cream?
The biggest difference between BB and CC cream is that CC cream is much better when it comes to colour correction than BB cream is. If you suffer from redness or uneven skin tone on the face, then CC cream would probably suit your skin better. Because of this, you may even want to use a CC cream underneath your foundation to correct any discolouration before adding coverage with your foundation. As the coverage of CC cream tends to be medium to full, there may be no need to add foundation on top, but it really depends on your skin and how you feel most comfortable.
BB cream is far more sheer in coverage compared to CC cream, and it won't help improve the appearance of redness or blemishes. BB cream is more focussed on taking care of your skin, adding hydration and a brightness to your complexion.
How to apply BB and CC cream
When it comes to the difference between BB and CC cream, the application is much the same. You can apply both BB cream and CC cream just as you would your usual foundation, either with your fingers, a foundation brush or sponge like a beauty blender.
You can wear them alone without any moisturiser or face primer designed for mature skin, or you can do your usual skincare regime before applying.
Although many BB and CC creams contain SPF, we'd recommend using a face SPF on your face before applying your makeup, especially in the summer months.
The best BB creams to buy
www.boots.com
This 5-in-1 formula aims to even out your complexion, reduce the appearance of blemishes, leave the skin feeling hydrated and it has a matte finish. It also contains SPF 20 and works to adapt to your skin tone.
One reviewer said: "I absolutely love this bb cream. It goes on beautifully and covers blemishes really well but is so light it feels like you're not wearing any makeup. It improves tone and texture and doesn't settle in fine lines. It's perfect for my 59 year old skin and although it costs more than I would normally pay, it's so worth it. Colour wise I went for Nude and it's a great match for my medium-fair skin tone. Love it!"
Pros
- SPF 20
- Enriched with Ginseng
Cons
- Only 4 shades available
www.thebodyshop.com
We've always been fans of The Body Shop and their affordable beauty buys. This BB cream creates a hydrated and luminous finish for even coverage. Containing SPF 30, this BB cream is sweat resistant and super lightweight.
One reviewer said: "It is really light and not heavy on the skin very natural looking."
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight on the skin
Cons
- Won't cover blemishes
www.boots.com
Enriched with hyaluronic acid and aloe, it's great for hydrating and soothing the skin. This formula helps to even out skin tone while allowing the skin to breath. It also helps protect the skin from the sun with its SPF 25 and has anti-aging properties.
One reviewer said: "I have light olive skin (Mediterranean but pale due to winter and spf) and the shade “light” is perfect for me. I’m not sure if it would work for people who are very fair, or those with pink undertones. However for me it’s a perfect match and the bb cream performs well during the day. I stopped using foundation all together and I think I’ll be using this for the entire summer."
Pros
- SPF 25
- Good for dry skin
Cons
- Warm undertones may not suit all skin tones
The best CC creams to buy
www.boots.com
This CC cream is loved by the Yours team and it's a best-seller for a reason. Not only does it have SPF 50, but it has so many more brilliant benefits including its full coverage, anti-aging properties and natural finish.
One reviewer said: "I’ve been searching for months for a foundation that would cover up the redness of my type two rosacea. The fair shade was perfect for me (colour matched was perfect!). Amazing coverage - really gives me confidence now when socialising. If you have acne or rosacea you want to hide then this is the foundation for you. It also feels breathable and not cakey on the skin."
Pros
- Buildable formula
- SPF 50
Cons
- Limited colour range
www.boots.com
Formulated to help the skin appear more radiant, it helps prevent ageing while you wear it while protecting you from the sun for a real flawless finish.
One reviewer said: "I bought this product, not knowing how I was going to like it. I am very fussy with my base, as I always prefer a more natural look- I usually wear Fenty skin tint. However, when I first used it I was shocked as to how good my skin looked. My redness had disappeared and my skin looked so smooth. It will be perfect in summer because of the SPF!"
Pros
- SPF 30
- Lighter coverage
Cons
- Sticky formula
www.boots.com
Ultra-lightweight, this CC cream contains mineral pigments which green tone blend seamlessly to help correct the appearance of redness in the skin. It comes with SPF 20 and is also infused with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E.
One reviewer said: "I’d forgotten how good this is. Definitely cancels redness to a decent degree, coverage is light -basically creates a more even canvas without looking like you’re wearing make up. Lasts pretty well, I add concealer but using this is my preference over foundation in the summer."
Pros
- Colour correcting
- SPF 20
Cons
- Doesn't suit all skin tones