The era of relying solely on standard foundation and tinted moisturizers for achieving flawless skin is a thing of the past. Recent trends in skincare and makeup have introduced a diverse range of flesh-colored fluids, each adorned with perplexing ‘alphabetical’ names. Enter the beauty industry’s sensations – ‘BB creams,’ ‘CC creams,’ and ‘DD creams’ – which have swiftly captured attention with their proclaimed ‘skin-perfecting potential.’ But what exactly do these creams offer to our skin, and how do they differ? Today, let’s delve into a beauty breakdown and unravel the distinctions between BB, CC, and DD creams. (1) (2)
What Are BB Creams?
‘BB’ creams are ‘Beauty Balms’ or ‘Blemish Balms,’ which offer lovely coverage and added skincare benefits. These are slightly heavy ‘tinted moisturizers on steroids’ with a consistency lighter than regular foundation. There are quite a few shades of BB creams available in the market, and you need to choose the right one for your skin.
Method Of Application
A BB cream can be used as both a moisturizer and a foundation. Furthermore, it can be used as a makeup base primer. However, being tinted, you do not need to use it often. Just a light layer is enough to get a fresh and gorgeous look.
Benefits
- BB creams are rich in antioxidants, which prevent premature aging and help smooth out the skin by eliminating signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
- It can fade away unexpected spots and blemishes from the skin, giving it an even tone.
- The moisturizing quality of these creams helps keep our skin hydrated.
- Most BB creams come with 30 or more SPF, which protects our skin from sun damage.
- They contain specific light-reflecting components for giving our skin a dewy, radiant finish.
However, BB creams are not for acne-prone skin and offer comparatively lesser coverage than other alphabetical formulations.
BB creams were first formulated by German Dermatologists. Though they were intended for the patients of cosmetic surgeries, they got more popular as tinted moisturizers afterwards.
Also Read – Best BB Creams Available In India – Top 5 Picks
What Are CC Creams?
CC creams are ‘Color Correcting’ or ‘Color Control’ with a lighter consistency and better coverage than their predecessor, i.e., BB creams. They are considered an advanced version of BB creams containing vitamins C and E, mainly focusing on rectifying various color-related skin problems. Also, CC creams are available in a more extensive variety of shades.
Method Of Application
The best thing about CC creams is that they can be applied over the moisturizer. Using it on the foundation, like BB creams, to create the makeup base is unnecessary.
Benefits
- CC creams comprise light-diffusing components for correcting skin issues like reddishness, sallowness, dullness, dark spots, and blemishes.
- Women suffering from acne and its ugly marks can find these creams highly effective.
- Like BB creams, they also come with SPF to combat the damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays.
- The sheer coverage offered by CC creams gives a smooth and even finish.
Also Read – 10 Natural Ayurvedic Creams For A Glowing & Fair Skin
What Are DD Creams?
DD creams or ‘Dynamic Do-All’ creams are the newest addition to this list of alphabetical skincare formulations, and they are known to be the hybrid of both their predecessors. Though the primary intention of creating this formulation is to provide anti-aging solutions, we can expect a lot more from these super creams categorized as ‘heavy-duty body and foot creams’ by American cosmetologists.
Method Of Application
DD creams are used daily to significantly enhance the skin’s tone and texture.
Benefits
- DD Creams mainly eliminate the signs of aging, such as age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, etc., thereby stopping untimely aging.
- It can also even out the skin tone and protect the delicate regions of the face.
Differences Between BB, CC, And DD Creams
BB, CC, and DD creams have lots of features in common. All of them give amazingly smooth skin by providing intense moisturization. They also come with good sun protection to shield your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. But they still differ from each other significantly. The dissimilarities in these three types of cream largely depend on their formulae, key functionalities, and the finish they offer. Here is a brief comparison between BB, CC, and DD creams in terms of composition, functionality, and finish:
Composition:
- BB creams combine soft foundation, tinted moisturizing elements, and antioxidant ingredients.
- CC creams comprise color-correcting ingredients, including vitamins (C and E).
- DD creams contain botanical oils, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants.
Functionality:
- BB creams are ‘all-in-one creams’ that mainly offer good coverage as primers while moisturizing the skin, protecting it from sun damage, and working as the base for makeup.
- CC creams offer color correction along with medium to high coverage.
- DD creams come with anti-aging benefits. They are a combination of BB and CC creams.
Finish:
- BB creams create a dewy and luminous appearance.
- CC creams give a whipped and fluffy feel while giving a matte finish.
- DD creams also make the skin look fresh, dewy, and radiant.
Bottom Line
Theoretically, you will find BB, CC, and DD creams different. They are also marketed for distinct issues. But when considered practically, it is pretty hard to differentiate them. Ensure you review the list of ingredients while picking an alphabetical formulation, as it will help you decide on the right product. Also, take your time to understand which brand suits you the most, as the benefits and coverage of these creams vary widely based on brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are BB creams, and how are they different from traditional foundations?
BB creams, short for ‘Beauty Balms’ or ‘Blemish Balms,’ offer coverage and skincare benefits. They are like tinted moisturizers but with a slightly heavier consistency. BB creams can act as moisturizers, foundations, and makeup base primers. They provide antioxidant-rich coverage with a dewy finish.
How do you apply BB creams, and what are their benefits?
BB creams can be applied as both a moisturizer and a foundation. A light layer is sufficient for a fresh and gorgeous look. Benefits include antioxidants for preventing premature aging, evening out skin tone fading spots, and offering sun protection (SPF 30 or more).
What are CC creams, and how do they differ from BB creams?
CC creams, or ‘Color Correcting’ creams, are an advanced version of BB creams with a lighter consistency and better coverage. They focus on rectifying color-related skin issues, such as redness, sallowness, and dark spots. CC creams can be applied over moisturizer and offer a smooth finish.
What benefits do CC creams provide, and who may find them effective?
CC creams comprise light-diffusing components for correcting various skin issues. They are effective for individuals with acne and its marks. CC creams also offer sun protection and provide sheer coverage for a smooth and even finish.
What are DD creams, and how do they differ from BB and CC creams?
DD creams, or ‘Dynamic Do-All’ creams, are a hybrid of BB and CC creams primarily focusing on providing anti-aging solutions. They go beyond skincare to be categorized as ‘heavy-duty body and foot creams’ by American cosmetologists. DD creams enhance skin tone and texture when used daily.