BB Vs CC Cream: What’s The Difference & Which One Should You Choose?

Concealer is your ultimate magic wand, ready to vanish traces of sleepless nights, i.e., dark circles, blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and more, at your command! But if you don’t know how to choose concealer shade that is best suited for your skin tone, it will just be a wand that can’t do much. Considering the endless hues available for different skin tones and undertones, it can get overwhelming to keep a track of all the tones, and swatches.

This beginner’s guide decodes everything you need to know about how to choose concealer shade for Indian skin tone, depending on your skin tone, undertone, type, and discoloration issues. Additionally, we have covered how to choose concealer shade for under eyes, or how to know your concealer shade online. Stay tuned and start taking notes!

What Is BB Cream?

BB cream, short for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm,” is a lightweight base product that combines skincare benefits with light makeup coverage. Think of it as a tinted moisturiser, but with added perks like SPF, hydration, and antioxidants. BB creams have become global beauty staples thanks to their ability to even out skin tone while nourishing the skin.

Key Benefits Of BB Cream:

• Light coverage that blurs imperfections

• Built-in SPF (in most formulas)

• Hydrating and soothing properties

• Perfect for a natural, dewy finish

If you’re someone who prefers minimal makeup and a one-step routine, BB cream is your go-to.

What Is CC Cream?

CC cream stands for “colour correcting” or “complexion correcting.” While it also offers skincare benefits, the primary purpose of a CC cream is to address issues like redness, sallowness, or dullness. CC creams typically offer slightly more coverage than BB creams, and their formulas often include light-diffusing particles to even out skin tone more effectively.

Key Benefits Of CC Cream:

• Better at concealing redness or pigmentation

• Lightweight, but buildable coverage

• Often includes anti-ageing ingredients like peptides or Vitamin C

• A semi-matte or natural finish

• If your concern is uneven skin tone, discolouration, or early signs of ageing, a CC cream may be a better match.

Difference Between BB And CC Cream

Now that you know what each product does, let’s explore the difference between BB and CC cream side by side: 

How to Choose Concealer Shade For Your Skin Tone and Undertone?

Take a quick look at the following while picking a concealer shade for you.

The BB vs CC cream debate ultimately comes down to your skin needs and the type of finish you prefer.

BB Cream Vs Foundation: Which One Should You Choose?

Wondering how BB cream vs foundation stacks up? Here’s a breakdown:

• BB creams are lighter and offer a more natural look. They’re great for everyday use and usually come with skincare benefits like SPF and moisturisers.
• Foundations, on the other hand, offer more pigment and fuller coverage, making them ideal for events, photography, or when you need your makeup to last longer.

If you're new to makeup or prefer a low-maintenance routine, BB cream is an excellent starter. But if you're looking to cover acne, scars, or want a flawless finish, the Lumi Matte Foundation may be more suitable. Not sure which foundation shade will suit you the most? Try the Foundation Finder tool to find your perfect match with ease.

CC Cream Vs Foundation: When To Use Each?

Just like BB creams, CC creams vs foundation serve different purposes:

• Use CC cream if your main concern is correcting redness, dullness, or hyperpigmentation. It evens out your complexion while still feeling light on the skin.
• Go for foundation if you need more coverage or want a camera-ready finish.

You can also layer CC cream under foundation for added correction and glow, especially for special occasions. An alternative to CC cream is the concealer. This product targets specific areas of discolouration or redness. While CC cream offers all-over correction, concealer provides more precise, high-coverage spot treatment.

How To Pick Between BB & CC Cream?

Here are a few quick tips to help you choose the right product for your routine:

Choose BB Cream If:

• You have dry or normal skin

• You want light makeup with skincare benefits

• You prefer a radiant, fresh finish

• You're going for a no-makeup makeup look

Choose CC Cream If:

• You have uneven skin tone, redness, or dark spots

• You want more coverage than a BB cream offers

• You prefer a matte or natural finish

• You’re dealing with signs of ageing and want added ingredients like vitamin C or peptides

Can You Use BB & CC Cream Together?

Yes, you can! While most people choose one over the other, some combine both for a customised finish. For example, you might use a CC cream on areas with redness (like cheeks or around the nose) and BB cream everywhere else. Just make sure to blend well and choose shades that complement your skin tone.

When it comes to BB vs CC cream, the choice depends on your skin's needs, coverage preference, and desired finish. And remember, both products can be excellent everyday alternatives to heavier formulations, especially in hot, humid climates or for those who prefer minimal makeup. By understanding the difference between BB and CC cream, and how each compares to foundation, you can make smarter, more tailored choices for your everyday makeup routine. So, whether your team is BB, team CC, or love them both, your skin is bound to thank you.

Also, now that you have knowledge of BB vs CC cream, pair it with other products such as blush, highlighter, setting spray and more to complete your makeup look. You can also head to the Maybelline Virtual-Try-On tool to try a variety of face makeup, eye makeup and lip makeup products from the comfort of your home, without having to spend a penny.