Covering All Bases: What BB And CC Creams Are All About… And How And When To Use Them

Are you as confused as us when it comes to BB creams, CC creams and DD creams?

Just kidding the D's haven't made an appearance on the shelves just yet, but it's confusing enough as it is.

How do these creams work in your make-up bag along with your foundation and tinted moisturiser? Or can you ditch those old bottles and call BB and CC creams your new beauty must-haves?

Put down the cosmetic bag and relax, we're here to answer all the questions...

What BB Cream Is All About...

The BB cream phenomenon began in Korea, came west a couple of years ago and dominated the beauty market by 2012, Style magazine reports. Right now BB cream stands for blemish balm or beauty balm, depending on who you're talking to.

What It Does...

BB cream delivers coverage and hydration. It primes and protects. It's not to be confused with tinted moisturiser as it does a little bit more. It gives light coverage to your skin's flaws, while also offering a skincare treatment to the skin.

Want To Try It?

17 BB Blemish Balm, €9.79 - affordable and gives a healthy glow to your skin. Great as a base.

To Note...

The tint in a BB cream means you can go without foundation, unless you have dark blemishes, then you might want a light application of your own foundation on top of your BB.

What CC Cream Is All About...

CC stands for Colour Control or Complexion Corrector, again whichever term you wish to adopt.

What It Does...

Style advises that the aim is to even out your skin tone while covering and hydrating. It comes with a light tint, but it has quite a sheer finish.

Want To Try It?

L'Oreal Paris Nude Magique CC Cream, €14.99

To Note...

You shouldn't really need a foundation with CC creams, although a spot of concealer can be used if necessary.