Which is Best for You: BB, CC, or DD Creams?
With so many versions of skin-perfecting products at varying price points on the market these days, it can be hard to know which ones to try.
BB creams, or “beauty balms,” have actually been on the market since the early 60s as a way to help disguise redness after a peel or treatment at the dermatologist. BB creams hit the US market in 2011 and became a huge hit despite the already crowded makeup industry. They were designed to instantly even out skin tone and make your complexion work better, and, in most cases, have SPF built in.
CC creams or “color correction” came quickly after BB creams. CC creams are supposed to take BB creams to the next level, by providing long term benefits and improving skin tone over time with regular use.
Newest to the makeup scene are DD creams or “dynamic do-all”. The first brand to announce the new product was Julep in early 2020. These creams claim to combine the benefits of BB and CC cream together.
Initially, BBs and CCs came in very limited shades, often only on the lighter spectrum, but luckily now, brands like Cover FX, Clinique, and Fenty have come out with a full range to accommodate all skin tones from very light to very dark.
All of these various products are a lot to take in, and I’m not even entirely convinced that they’re different or even real. However, every product claims to offer different benefits, so here is a breakdown of all the BB, CC and DD creams and some of our favorites.
BB Cream
BBs are like tinted moisturizers, which give light coverage and hydration, making it perfect for everyday use. They're a skincare–makeup hybrid that claims to do it all: priming, refreshing, brightening, moisturizing, and protecting, with most containing SPF. If you’re looking for more coverage, you can also try using a BB as a primer under your foundation.
Our Recommendation
Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35 | $39
Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream | $7.50
CC Cream
CCs give more coverage than BBs but still feel light enough to not be full coverage. The difference is the addition of color correcting which helps get rid of dark spots, redness, and improves the overall appearance of your skin. If you have any problems with your skin or want anti-aging benefits, check out a CC cream.
Our Recommendation
Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream | $35
Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream | $16
DD Cream
DD creams are designed to diffuse light, and are packed with anti-aging ingredients and vitamins. These creams work best for aging skin, and for people who want to improve their tone and slowly diminish wrinkles.
Our Recommendation
OFRA DD Cream | $30
AJ Crimson BB+D Cream | $20