BB and CC creams reflect the recent trends in beauty and cosmetics. Both of these creams share many similar characteristics as a foundation, moisturizer, or mattifying product, they are not the same.
Read this guide on BB cream vs CC cream to explore the key differences between both products, application tips, and which one you should use, tailored to your skin’s unique needs.

What is BB Cream and CC Cream?
‘’Beauty balm’’ or ‘’blemish balm’’are the alternative words for BB cream. It is a multi-faceted cream with the goodness of moisturizer, primer, sunscreen, and foundation all rolled into one. It provides light to medium coverage and thus is best for concealing minor blemishes. It helps lightly cover imperfections while caring for your skin.
“Colour corrector “and “complexion corrector” are the synonyms linked with CC cream. It has the inbuilt features of both the foundation and concealer. It is lighter in texture than BB creams and excels at correcting discolourations like redness, dullness, dark undereye circles, uneven skin tone, and acne scarring. The cream works on color wheel theory to improve the look of uneven skin.
Difference Between BB Cream and CC Cream Explained
BB cream and CC cream are both multitasking makeup products, but they are different in multiple ways:
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the BB cream and CC cream difference
BB Cream:
- Coverage: Light to medium coverage.
- Main Purpose: Provides a natural, dewy finish with skincare benefits like hydration and sun protection.
- Ideal for: Those who want a simple, all-in-one product with a natural look.
- Example: BB creams can be used as a moisturizer, primer, and foundation all in one.
- Benefits: Hydration, sun protection, and a touch of color for a natural glow.
CC Cream:
- Coverage: More coverage than BB cream, often with a matte finish.
- Main Purpose: Targets specific skin concerns like redness, sallowness, or uneven skin tone, providing a more even complexion.
- Ideal for: Those who want color correction and a more polished look.
- Example: CC creams can be used to cancel out redness or conceal imperfections like acne scarring, fine lines, or blemishes.
- Benefits: Color correction, even skin tone, and more coverage than BB cream.
More Information For You: How to Make Ubtan at Home

BB vs CC Cream: Application Methods and Tips
Now that you know the precise difference between BB Cream and CC Cream. Understanding the application methods of each will also help you to make the right choice.
How to use BB cream step by step
Step 1: Cleanse and moisturize your face for a fresh base
Begin by cleansing your face with face wash to get rid of oil, dirt, and impurities. This will help provide you with a clean face and a fresh base as well. Follow it up with a moisturising lotion to keep your skin hydrated and soft.
Step 2: Apply in dots to provide even coverage
Pour a pea-sized amount of BB cream and apply in small dots on your cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin.
Step 3: Evenly blend BB cream for a natural look
To ensure even distribution on your skin, blend the cream using your fingers, brush, or a sponge in outward motions.
Step 4: Apply in layers to cover blemishes and redness properly
Applying one layer of BB cream may not be enough. You will need to apply a second layer in areas where redness or blemishes are noticeable.
Step 5: Set with powder if you have oily skin types
Dust translucent powder lightly to prevent shine. This is applicable if you have oily skin.
How to use cc cream step by step
- Rub the BB cream in small dots, targeting the chin, cheeks, nose, or forehead. Blend the cream, starting from the center of your face. Blend in with a makeup brush, your fingers, or a beauty blender.
- Apply more quantity of CC cream to any problem areas, and then buff your skin using a damp beauty blender to remove any streaks. For a perfect makeup finish, make use of powder and setting spray.
- Always prioritize applying CC cream to a clean, fresh face. You can also prolong the cream’s wear by applying a pea-sized amount of primer first.
BB vs CC cream: Which One to Use According to Your Skin Type?
Following is a detailed table of the bb cream vs cc cream difference with respect to which is best suited for different skin types.
Aspect | BB cream | CC cream | Best for skin types |
Texture | Hydrating and creamy. | Matte or semi-matte, lighter. | BB: Mature, Dry SkinCC: Combination, oily skin. |
Key ingredients | SPF, hydrating agents, and antioxidants. | Light diffusing particles, anti-redness ingredients. | BB: sensitive /dry skin types. CC: Red /acne-prone skin. |
Sun protection | Contains SPF | Contains higher SPF | Suitable for all skin types as per SPF needs. |
Finish | Radiant, dewy | Matte, semi-matte | BB: Dehydrated/ dull skin CC: Acne -scars, oily, rosacea -prone. |

Conclusion
The main difference between BB cream vs CC cream lies in their intended use. The BB creams are formulated to hydrate the skin and offer natural-looking light coverage. CC creams, on the other hand, help correct the appearance of discolourations to promote a more even-looking skin.
Variation in the coverage between these two multitasking products is yet another crucial bb cream and cc cream difference. BB creams are lighter and more skin-like, while CC creams provide slightly more coverage.
FAQs
What is the difference between BB and CC cream?
BB creams provide light to medium coverage with a natural dewy finish, while CC creams are designed for color correction, treating problems like redness and uneven skin tone.
BB vs CC cream, which is better?
There is no “single” better cream, as both BB and CC creams are designed to serve different needs. The best choice varies as per your skin’s needs and desired makeup look.
BB cream vs CC cream for oily skin: which is better?
In the never-ending debate over choosing BB vs CC cream for oily skin, CC cream is usually preferred over BB cream for oily skin. It is because of CC cream’s oil-controlling and matte-finish properties.
BB vs CC cream for acne: which is a better choice?
CC cream is usually preferred over BB cream because of its color correcting and slightly more coverage capabilities.
What should I use first, BB or CC cream?
One method is to apply BB cream first, followed by CC cream. A second method is to combine both, either on a cosmetic palette or on the back of your hand, before you apply with clean fingers or a makeup brush.
What is BB and CC cream difference and their uses for preventing skin concerns?
BB cream is a lightweight, multi-tasking product that treats dryness, dullness in skin. CC cream addresses concerns like uneven skin tone, redness, and pigmentation.
What are the side effects of BB cream vs CC cream?
BB and CC creams may cause side effects such as skin irritation, breakouts, and allergic reactions.
How do I know if I require BB or CC cream?
Your skin type and concerns are determining factors.BB cream is a hydrating makeup and works best for dry skin. CC cream is lighter and matte and works best for oily/acne-prone skin.
Can we use CC cream daily?
Yes, you can apply CC cream regularly. It is a skin-friendly, lightweight option and can be used as an everyday makeup for a more dramatic look.
Can I apply BB or CC cream instead of foundation?
Yes, you can use BB or CC cream instead of foundation if you are looking for a lighter, more natural coverage.
What is the bb cc cream difference as per texture?
BB cream has a creamy, rich texture, while CC cream boasts a lighter texture that blends effortlessly into the skin.