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CC cream is a cosmetic product that’s advertised to work as a sunscreen, foundation, and moisturizer all-in-one. CC cream makers claim there’s an added benefit of “color-correcting” your skin, hence the name “CC.”
CC cream is supposed to target discolored areas of your skin, eventually evening out your skin’s dark spots or red patches.
Every brand’s CC cream formula is different, but almost all of these products have a few things in common. Active SPF ingredients protect your skin from sun damage, and anti-aging ingredients — such as vitamin C, peptides, and antioxidants — are often infused into the mix.
Beyond these additions, CC creams — and BB creams — are basically revamped and modernized tinted moisturizers.
The “color correction” magic of CC cream is less about matching your skin color exactly and more about camouflaging problem areas.
If you’re an avid skin care devotee, you might already be familiar with color theory and its applications to cosmetics.
According to color theory, “correcting” your complexionisn’t a matterof covering up imperfections as much as it’s about neutralizing redness and shading out blue and purple shadows.
This chartis helpful for figuring out your skin’s undertones and how you can use that information for color correction.
When you buy the right shade of CC cream for your skin tone, you’re taking the guesswork out of color correction, as the product aims to tone, even, and blend into your skin.
CC creams are infused with light-deflecting particles that claim to hide skin that appears:
- dull
- sallow
- red
- tired
CC cream does have a leg up on some other kinds of makeup. For one thing, CC cream protects your skin from the harmful UV rays that can lead to photoaging.
While a few of the more “traditional” foundations claim that they have anti-aging ingredients, nothing preserves your skin better than good ole SPF.
Keep in mind that CC cream alone might not be enough sun protection for a day spent exposed to the sun’s direct rays. Check your labels carefully, as
CC cream also goes on lighter, making it less likely to clog your pores and trigger a breakout.
Since a layer of CC cream might not provide as much “opaque” coverage as a regular foundation, you might want to apply a little bit extra if you’re going for a polished look.
This won’t be everyone’s preference, but some beauty gurus would say that makes it “buildable.”
CC cream also offers some flexibility in its uses, since you can simply spread some on before popping out for errands when you don’t want a full face of makeup, or even use a thin layer of it as primer to protect your skin while you layer foundation over top.
Lastly, people who swear by CC cream claim that it does work to nourish, protect, improve, and “correct” their skin’s appearance without the guesswork and time commitment of color correcting concealer products.
Your mileage may vary with CC cream, depending on your skin type, your desired outcome, and the product line that you choose to use.
Lots of beauty brands claim that CC cream is perfect for all skin types, even skin that’s prone to oil buildup. The truth is that your success with CC cream will vary wildly according to the one you choose.
CC creamcanwork for oily skin — in contrast to BB (beauty balm) cream, CC cream tends to be less oily and it feels lighter on the skin.
Does that mean that it’ll work for your skin? It’s hard to know unless you try.
CC cream is relatively new to the market, but it’s certainly not an entirely new product. CC cream is basically tinted moisturizer, with the trappings of color theory and a modernized ingredient list.
That doesn’t mean that CC cream doesn’t live up to its claim to correct your complexion, delay wrinkles, and hydrate your skin.
So while CC cream is an inventive way of packaging and marketing the idea of a certain kind of tinted moisturizer, it’s more than a marketing ploy. CC cream is a specific product with distinctive claims and benefits.
To use CC cream, start with skin that’s clean and dry. Makeup primer isn’t necessary under CC cream, and can actually keep the cream from absorbing and moisturizing your skin.
Squeeze a small amount of product out of the tube. You can always add more but it’s better to start with too little than too much. Use your fingers to dot cream on your face.
Pay specific attention to areas you might wish to conceal or color correct, like dark circles under your eyes or blemishes on your jawline.
Use a clean, damp beauty blender to blend the cream into your skin. You may need to repeat this process two or three times until you reach the desired level of coverage.
Finish off with a light layer of finishing powder for sheer matte look, or apply foundation as you normally would over primer if you want more of a full-coverage look.
CC cream is often compared to similar creams that came to market around the same time. These products are basically all different types of tinted moisturizers with sunscreen. Each of them carries an additional claim specific to the buyer’s desire.
BB cream
BB cream refers to “beauty balm,” or “blemish balm.” BB creams are slightly heavier than CC cream and are meant to provide enough coverage that you won’t need foundation.
A good BB cream would do many of the same things as a CC cream, and the differences between the two are subtle.
Mainly, a BB cream provides heavier color coverage than CC cream, but it won’t address any issues of color variations or blemishes on your skin.
DD cream
DD cream refers to “dynamic do-all” or “daily defense” creams.
These products carry the texture of a BB cream, but with the addition of the color correcting particles of a CC cream, claiming to give you the best of all worlds. DD creams have yet to be widely available.
Foundation
How do all these “new” products stack up against regular foundation?
For one thing, BB, CC, and DD creams offer more versatility. It’s easy enough to apply some CC cream and walk out the door knowing your face is safe from sun damage and moisturized, too.
But in terms of color choices, you might find BB, CC, and DD creams to be lacking in variety. Most are formulated in only a few shades (light, medium, and deep, for example), which isn’t very inclusive to a wide variety of skin tones.
Traditional foundation does come in a larger offering of shades, with more becoming available all the time.
CC cream is certainly not the only product you can try toeven your skin tone.
When it comes to your skin’s health and appearance, there’s really nothing better thandrinking lots of water,getting plenty of rest, and sticking to askin care routinethat tones, moisturizes, and protects.
The end result of using CC cream probably won’t be much different from continuing to use your favorite foundation.
There are some cult favorite CC cream brands that many skin care and beauty influencers swear are better than a foundation and tinted moisturizer. A few popular products include:
- Your Skin, But Better CC Cream with SPF 50by It Cosmetics
- Moisture Surge CC Cream with SPF 30by Clinique
- Stem Cellular CC Cream with SPF 30by Juice Beauty (vegan and non-toxic)
- Almay Smart Shade CC Cream(for a drugstore fix)
CC cream is a beauty product meant to moisturize your skin, protect from sun damage, and even out your complexion.
While the concept of a “CC cream” might be relatively new, the ingredients and idea of a tinted moisturizer are certainly not revolutionary.
When selecting any skin care product, it’s important to keep in mind what your expectations are and what you want to use it for.
CC cream is a good option for light coverage and SPF protection for people who don’t like heavy makeup. But it won’t heal or change your skin’s appearance permanently.
FAQs
What Is CC Cream? How Does It Compare to Other Products? ›
What's the difference between BB cream and CC cream? The main difference between both formulas lies in their coverage intensity and texture. BB creams are beauty balms that correct blemishes; CC creams are
Generally, CC cream focuses on anti-aging properties. Most CC creams are formulated with SPF, plus ingredients that blur wrinkles and age spots. CC creams have a lighter consistency than BB creams. They often have a whipped, fluffy texture and matte finish.
What is the difference between cream and CC cream? ›What's the Difference Between BB Cream and CC Cream? While similar, CC cream offers more coverage than BB cream. Use BB cream for days you need more hydration, want lighter coverage and a natural look, and grab CC cream when you want more of a color payoff as well as color correction.
What does CC cream replace? ›CC cream—short for "color corrective" or "color control"—helps cover up uneven tone and hyperpigmentation with added ingredients that calm redness and promote radiance. CC creams have a lighter texture than BB creams, but they still allow for a foundation-like coverage.
Is CC cream use instead of foundation? ›No, a CC cream is not the same as a foundation. Generally, a foundation is thicker and provides more coverage than a CC cream. You will also find more variety of shades while purchasing a foundation. CC creams can be used individually or as a base for foundation.
Is it OK to wear CC cream everyday? ›Yes, you can use CC cream daily because it is typically the better formula for skin due to its added skin care properties and UV protection qualities.
Do you wear CC cream alone? ›"These formulas usually feature soothing ingredients to calm redness and even out blotchiness." You can use a CC cream on its own to lightly cover any discoloration and even out the skin tone or as a base to other foundations, like a primer with added color-balancing pigments, says Lujan.
Which brand CC cream is best? ›| Name | Amazon Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Avon Skin Goodness CC Cream, 18 g | 4.3 / 5 | Rs. 379 |
| VauriiC Effortless Elegance CC Cream, 50 g | 4.2 / 5 | Rs. 380 |
| Lotus Makeup Ecostay Cc Illuminating Crème Spf 30, 25 g | 3.4 / 5 | Rs. 424 |
| Spawake CC Cream with SPF 32/PA++, 30 g | 3.9 / 5 | Rs. 505 |
Because both BB and CC creams are multiuse, you can skip primer and moisturiser altogether and wear them alone or layer them under your favourite foundation for natural-looking, beautiful skin and the ultimate no-make-up make-up look!
Do you use a moisturizer with a CC cream? ›Similar to BB cream, you should apply CC cream after you apply your moisturizer and sunscreen. Remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day to protect your skin. Follow up with the rest of your makeup routine.
Is CC cream good for anti-aging? ›
CC cream generally is better for aging skin than BB creams. CC creams have anti-aging ingredients and benefits, and they also have SPF protection that blur wrinkles and age spots.
Does CC cream go all over face? ›If you're a pro, gently and evenly blend it into your skin all over your face, using your fingertips, a brush, or a make-up sponge. If you're not as experienced, just dab a small amount on your cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, then pat the cream into place.
What gives better coverage BB or CC cream? ›CC stands for “colour correcting” or “complexion correcting”. This product has a bit more coverage than the BB cream while still remaining lighter than foundation. CC creams will work better for those with sallow skin or age spots than BB creams.
Why does my CC cream look cakey? ›The number one cause of cakey makeup is layering on too much product. When you really cake on the product, it'll be all too obvious that that's what you did, so make sure that you're sheering it out. And try to use your hand as a palette and then start to manipulate the product on your face.
Do you put powder over CC cream? ›They work as a modification of foundations. It's not necessary to put compact over CC cream unless you have an oily skin which you want to neutralise. If you have a dry skin I would suggest you to avoid layers of makeup that might set back your natural skin tone.
What should I apply before CC cream? ›You should always apply CC cream on a clean face. Start by washing your face with water. Use a good cleanser to wash your face, then pat your skin dry. Also, apply toner with a cotton ball if you have dry skin.
Is there any side effects of CC cream? ›Serious side effects of CC-500
Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
CC cream stands for "color correcting" cream or complexion corrector cream. These are thicker, heavier formulas than the light, airy bb creams. They are intended to fully hide dark spots or redness and neutralize the appearance of imperfections, but don't give all the many skin-loving benefits that bb creams do.
Does CC cream fade dark spots? ›CC cream skin benefits & formula
The skin-first coverage helps visibly reduce the look of redness, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, dark spots and age spots, leaving skin looking even, radiant, healthy and youthful.
CC cream can be applied the way you like best, whether that's with your fingers or with a brush. Pat the cream to spread it around your face, rather than rubbing your skin, which can irritate it. Alternatively, sweep a makeup brush across your skin to blend the cream outward.
How do I choose CC cream shade? ›
When choosing a CC cream, make sure to select a shade that is not too light or too dark. If it's too light, you can mix it with your foundation. If it's too dark, you can lighten the shade with a bit of moisturizer or primer.
How do you remove CC cream? ›This means that sunscreen, BB cream, foundation, blusher, and yes, CC cream too, have to be cleansed off with a makeup remover.
Which shade of CC cream is best for fair skin? ›- If you have fair skin tones but no redness, only imperfections: you can use CC Cream Clair. Whatever your skin type, our CC Cream will even out and beautify your complexion. If your skin tans well in summer, you can always switch to the Doré shade for a while, so it matches your tanned skin.
How long does CC cream last? ›6 to 12 Months. Foundation, tinted moisturizer, BB cream, CC cream and concealer: Six months to a year. "A great indicator of the time to toss away would be when separation occurs in the bottle.
What is the price of CC cream? ›₹102. 00 FREE Delivery on first order.
How long does CC cream last on face? ›Cream and liquid foundations keep for between one and two years. Tinted moisturizers and alphabet creams (BB, CC, and DD) may last only about six to eight months. Dispose of foundation products when you notice a change in color and/or smell.
Is CC cream water or silicone based? ›Skin-boosting ingredients: The water-based formula is packed full of anti-ageing ingredients including niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and lots of delicious hydrating oils, so you're getting loads of added skincare benefits while wearing a full face of makeup.
What is the importance of CC cream? ›The primary role of a CC cream is to battle uneven tone and texture on the face. It evens out your complexion and even conceals redness so that your skin looks flawless and has a matte finish. If you are looking for a lightly concealed look on a regular basis, the CC cream is an ideal choice.
Does CC cream cause wrinkles? ›And because CC cream is so much lighter than regular foundation, it's less likely to settle into lines and wrinkles and look like spackling.
What is DD cream used for? ›DD creams not only moisturize, nourish, smooth, and protect your skin, they also offer great coverage. Forget lugging around a separate moisturizer and foundation. A quality DD cream provides basic coverage to camouflage under eye circles, correct redness, and hide blemishes.
What is the meaning of DD cream? ›
DD: daily defense
DD creams are hybrid products that often provide better coverage than BB creams and more skin benefits than CC creams. Rich in antioxidants, they mainly serve to protect the skin. They form a shield against harsh environmental factors and protect the skin from UV rays and pollution.
'If you are using BB cream as a base then the next step is to apply foundation. This should be applied in the same way – but remember you already have some coverage from the cream so you won't need much foundation at all. Finally, for a more lasting hold, you may choose to apply powder at the final stage.
Is it Cosmetics CC cream good for mature skin? ›IT CosmeticsCC+ Cream Full Coverage Color Correcting Foundation with SPF 50+ It's really good for an older person with some wrinkles and dry skin.
Does CC cream go over primer? ›But, Primer does not have any pigments or coverage in it but can let your makeup stay for a long time whereas BB cream and CC creams do have some kind of pigments that gives us some coverage which will stay for a long time if lathered after primer. So you can lather CC cream over your primer.
How do you make CC cream not look cakey? ›If you've finished your makeup and your bronzer looks muddy or your foundation looks chalky or cakey, help give it a skin-like texture by adding in an oil at the end of your routine. Just drop a few dots of face oil onto the back of your hand, stamp your beauty sponge in it a few times, then lightly (lightly!)
Can you put makeup on top of CC cream? ›CC cream also offers some flexibility in its uses, since you can simply spread some on before popping out for errands when you don't want a full face of makeup, or even use a thin layer of it as primer to protect your skin while you layer foundation over top.
Is it necessary to apply compact powder after CC cream? ›Yes, you should apply compact powder after foundation to remove excess oil and it is helps to set your makeup for a longer time. This depends on your face type. Compact powder is best suited for those with dry skin while loose powder is suitable for those with oily or combination skin.
Does CC cream dry your skin? ›Despite the matte finish, this CC cream doesn't look or feel drying on the skin throughout the day. It's a great option for warm weather and humid climates, and because it's not a dry matte, it's suitable for all skin types.
Should CC cream be lighter or darker? ›A Light shade will bring a slight lightening and a boost of radiance on your skin while a Medium shade will give a unified complexion, slightly clearer and brighter. For black & matte skin, prefer brands with shades adapted to darker skin tones.
What does a CC cream do for your face? ›The primary role of a CC cream is to battle uneven tone and texture on the face. It evens out your complexion and even conceals redness so that your skin looks flawless and has a matte finish. If you are looking for a lightly concealed look on a regular basis, the CC cream is an ideal choice.
How do you use CC cream for beginners? ›
If you're a pro, gently and evenly blend it into your skin all over your face, using your fingertips, a brush, or a make-up sponge. If you're not as experienced, just dab a small amount on your cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, then pat the cream into place.
Do you put concealer or CC cream first? ›If you use a cream-based foundation or a BB or CC cream, apply your foundation first and your concealer second.
Do you apply Moisturiser before CC cream? ›Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin.
CC cream should be applied to clean skin. Wash your face using your favorite cleanser and gently pat your skin dry. Then, if you have oily skin, apply toner using a cotton ball. If you have dry skin, gently apply moisturizer.
Both BB and CC creams offer natural and sheer coverage to the skin while being multifunctional and simplifying your skin routine. Where BB creams are ideal for dry skin due to their hydrating properties. CC creams are suitable for oily and acne-prone skin due to their mattifying, lightweight and anti-aging properties.
What should I put on my face before CC cream? ›You should always apply CC cream on a clean face. Start by washing your face with water. Use a good cleanser to wash your face, then pat your skin dry. Also, apply toner with a cotton ball if you have dry skin.
Should you put foundation under your eyes? ›To avoid drawing unwanted attention to the area, many makeup artists would recommend not applying too much, if any, foundation around the eye. Instead, they suggest using a hydrating, lightweight concealer that has been designed specifically for the under eye area.
Should concealer be lighter or darker than foundation? ›The general rule of thumb is that you should always opt for a shade lighter than foundation when choosing your concealer colour. Doing so helps to mask darker discolouration, but be careful not to over-correct! Knowing how to pick the right concealer is essential to ensuring that your look does not appear ghostly.
Should concealer be lighter than CC cream? ›Select the right shade.
“You can't have a concealer that's too light,” she said, adding that women should choose concealer that's one to two shades lighter than the color of their foundation. “One to two shades … the right color blends itself. It makes a big difference."