Simplify your routine with multitasking BB and CC cream from Adore Beauty. These hybrid formulas combine skincare benefits with light coverage, offering hydration, sun protection, and colour correction in one step. Discover sheer-coverage bases from Jane Iredale, IT Cosmetics, and more trusted brands that perfect your complexion whilst nourishing skin.
Shop BB and CC Cream for Effortless Coverage
BB and CC cream formulas bridge the gap between skincare and makeup, delivering sheer coverage alongside genuine skin benefits. BB creams (Beauty Balm) help provide
primer,
foundation,
moisturiser, and
sunscreen in one lightweight formula. They hydrate, blur imperfections, and provide a natural finish without the weight of traditional base products. Products like
Jane Iredale's Glow Time BB Cream combine anti-ageing ingredients with buildable coverage for busy mornings when you want a polished look quickly.
CC creams (Colour Correction) take the concept further by neutralising redness, dullness, and uneven skin tone. These formulas correct colour issues whilst delivering the same moisturising and protective benefits as BB creams. The slightly thicker texture addresses concerns like rosacea, post-inflammatory marks, or general discolouration. Both formulas work brilliantly for those who prefer lighter coverage over
full coverage foundation, creating that fresh, no-makeup makeup look.
These hybrid bases suit various application methods. Apply with fingertips for sheer, natural coverage, or use
foundation brushes for more controlled, buildable results. The lightweight formulas blend seamlessly into skin, making them ideal for combination complexions that struggle with heavier bases. Many formulas also work as primers under
liquid foundation when you need extra coverage for special occasions.
Difference Between BB Cream and CC Cream
The bb vs cc cream debate centres on your specific skin concerns and coverage preferences. BB creams offer sheer to light coverage with a dewy finish, making them perfect for normal to dry skin types seeking a natural look. They typically contain SPF protection, making them function like
foundation with SPF, although it is recommended to use an SPF with your BB cream. The formula sits somewhere between
tinted moisturisers and traditional foundation, providing more coverage than the former whilst feeling lighter than the latter.
CC creams target specific colour correction needs before adding coverage. They contain pigments that counteract redness, sallowness, or dullness, creating an even base tone. The formula tends to be slightly more opaque than BB cream, though it still qualifies as
sheer/light coverage foundation. Sensitive skin types often prefer CC formulas because they address irritation-related redness whilst providing a calming, lightweight layer.
Consider these factors when choosing between cc cream and bb cream formulas:
- Skin concerns:BB cream suits those wanting light coverage with hydration, whilst CC cream targets uneven tone and redness
- Texture preferences: BB formulas feel lighter and more moisturising, CC creams offer slightly more coverage with colour-correcting pigments. Finish goals: BB cream delivers a dewy, natural glow, CC cream creates a more polished, balanced complexion
- Skin type compatibility: Dry skin thrives with hydrating BB formulas, combination to oily skin benefits from the mattifying properties in many CC creams
- Coverage level: Both provide sheer coverage, though CC creams typically build to light-medium more easily
Both formulas work well for mature skin when selected thoughtfully. Look for versions with hyaluronic acid, peptides, or vitamin C that address ageing concerns whilst providing coverage. The lightweight nature of these hybrid products won't settle into fine lines like heavier bases might.
BB vs CC Cream for Any Skin Type
Finding your ideal BB or CC cream match depends on understanding how different formulas perform on your complexion. Oily skin types benefit from oil-free BB creams with mattifying ingredients, whilst dry complexions need deeply hydrating formulas with nourishing oils. Combination skin can use either formula, often preferring BB cream in winter for extra moisture and CC cream in summer for its lighter, colour-correcting properties.
These hybrid bases also work under concealer, providing a smooth canvas that helps spot coverage blend seamlessly. For those exploring different coverage options, comparing these formulas to
mineral makeup foundation helps identify which texture suits your preferences.
Shade selection matters even with sheer-coverage formulas. Most BB and CC creams come in limited shade ranges, typically 3-8 options. Choose a shade that matches your neck rather than your face for the most natural result. If you're between shades, opt for the lighter option, as these formulas blend and sheer out more easily than traditional bases. Looking for more inclusive shade options across all base products? Browse our
global shades foundation collection. You can also find great deals on hybrid formulas and traditional bases in our
foundation sale section.
FAQs
Does BB or CC cream look more natural?
Both BB and CC creams create natural finishes, though your skin's needs determine which appears more seamless. BB creams offer sheer to medium coverage with a dewy, barely-there look that suits everyday wear. CC creams provide slightly more coverage to balance redness or discolouration whilst maintaining a natural appearance. Choose BB cream for a fresh, luminous finish or CC cream for a balanced, polished complexion that still looks like skin.
Do you apply BB or CC cream first?
BB and CC creams function as standalone products, replacing primer, foundation, and moisturiser in your routine. Choose the formula that addresses your needs and apply it directly to your skin. If combining both products, apply CC cream first to correct any redness or uneven tone, then layer BB cream for added hydration and luminosity. Set with powder if you prefer a matte finish or leave as-is for natural radiance.
Can I use BB or CC cream with other base products?
Yes, BB and CC creams layer beautifully with other complexion products for customised coverage. Mix either formula with liquid foundation to sheer it out whilst maintaining coverage benefits. Apply under concealer to create a smooth canvas that helps spot coverage blend seamlessly. You can also use these hybrid formulas as primers under traditional foundation when you need extra hydration or colour correction. The lightweight nature makes them versatile base products that adapt to different coverage needs.