What's The Difference Between BB and CC Creams?

With all of the choices available for achieving a seemingly flawless complexion in the aisles of drugstores and beauty counters, the beauty industry definitely hasn't made decision-making an easy task. I mean, you have liquid foundations, powders, tinted moisturizers, airbrushing... you name it, it's probably out there now! But, lo and behold, we're not done yet! BB and CC Creams have crept onto the scene as the new cool kids on the block. But, as with any cool kid, they possess an heir of mystery. What are they all about and why should I care? Let's figure it out...

BB Cream: Simple and Nutrient Rich

BB Creams have a bit of rich history. They've apparently been around in the Asian markets for quite a while, as far back as the mid 1980's! However, they've only recently become popular within the U.S. BB stands for "beauty balm" I've also heard "blemish balm." BB Creams attempt to be an all-in-one kind of product that nourishes, protects, hydrates and applies very mild coverage for your skin. BB Creams are also meant to be rich in antioxidants and skin revitalization properties found in many anti-aging products.

I'd envision that BB Creams are best for those who want a natural and lightweight coverage for their skin. This person might also struggle with mild breakouts and would find deep nourishment to be a priority. Personally, as a woman with normal to oily skin, I don't tend to favor BB Creams because they have a tendency to linger on the oily side. These creams are much more apt for dryer skin users. 

Lastly, BB Creams are perfectly acceptable to be worn alone, but can also be used as a primer with foundation applied over it. This, of course, depends on your desired amount of coverage.

CC Cream: Smooth and Flawless

CC Creams are somewhat of a "fraternal twin" of BB Creams. Like BB's, CC Creams contain sun protection and nourishing benefits for the skin. However, a CC Cream's big selling point is "color correction." The main goal of a CC Cream is to help rectify uneven skin tone, and discoloration. For this reason, CC Creams can take on odd colors when looking at the product straight out of the tube. They may appear to be opalescent or "pearly" in color. This is to gather light-reflecting properties and use them in the proper areas for your skin. Those that suffer from hyper-pigmentation will find CC Creams very useful. 

CC Creams have a lighter feel on the skin than BB Creams and feel less oily. They also boast better coverage and blending capabilities. CC Creams have also been said to have more advanced healing properties than BB Creams. When looking at available CC Cream products in the market, you'll notice that they have claims of repairing or improving the appearance of your skin in "some odd" number of weeks. Claims like these are much more prevalent with CC Creams.

Overall, I'd say that the addition of BB's and CC's are welcome members to the always-evolving beauty industry. My only qualm with these new products are that being they are technically new on the beauty scene, available shades can be limited. However, with their rapidly growing popularity, I do see that changing soon. 

With that being said, I'm really interested in doing a compare and contrast experiment with a drugstore and high-end CC Cream. Just to figure out if more money, means better results. Who knows, we may see that coming on The Chic Counsel sometime in the near future.

Until next time!

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