BB Cream vs CC Cream: Key Differences & When to Use Each One

BB Cream vs CC Cream: What’s the Difference & When to Use Each?

If you’ve ever wondered whether a BB cream or a CC cream is right for you, you’re not alone. Both are popular multitasking products in Korean skincare and makeup, but they serve slightly different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you choose the best option for your skin type and daily routine.

In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences between BB and CC creams, who should use each one, and share the best tips to get the most out of them.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have ongoing skin concerns such as severe acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation, we recommend consulting a dermatologist for personalized treatment.

BB Cream vs CC Cream – Key Differences

Feature	BB Cream	CC Cream
Main Purpose	“Beauty Balm” – light/medium coverage + skincare benefits	“Color Correcting” – neutralize redness/dullness; lighter coverage
Coverage	Light to medium (buildable)	Sheer to light (natural skin-like)
Finish	Dewy/satin; some semi-matte options	Natural/satin; often weightless
Skincare Focus	Hydration, soothing, barrier support (HA, Ceramides, Cica)	Tone correction (Niacinamide, Vitamin C derivatives, brighteners)
Skin Concerns	Dryness, uneven texture, mild blemishes	Redness, sallowness, dullness, uneven tone
SPF	Frequent (varies by product)	Frequent (varies by product)
When It Shines	Everyday makeup-skincare hybrid with more coverage	Fast tone-evening, no-makeup look, color correction

When to Use Each One

• Choose BB Cream if… you want more coverage + skincare. Ideal for:
  • Dry or normal skin → look for HA, Ceramides, Panthenol.
  • Acne-prone skin → look for Niacinamide, Cica, Tea Tree (non-comedogenic).
  • Hyperpigmentation/post-acne marks → pair with brightening serum and SPF.
• Choose CC Cream if… you want quick tone correction with a natural finish. Ideal for:
  • Redness/rosy areas → green-tinted CC.
  • Dull/yellowish tone → violet-tinted CC.
  • Combination/oily skin that prefers ultra-light textures.

Application Tips

1. Prep: Hydrating toner/essence + lightweight moisturizer.
2. SPF: Use a dedicated SPF 50+ if outdoors (even if your BB/CC has SPF).
3. Apply: Start with a pea-size amount; build thin layers with fingers or damp sponge.
4. Finish: Set only the T-zone if needed; keep cheeks dewy for a skin-like look.

Explore our curated collections: Korean BB Creams · Korean CC Creams (in collection)

Our Recommended Korean BB & CC Creams

Whether you choose a BB cream for hydration and coverage or a CC cream for color correction, these Korean favorites deliver both beauty and skincare benefits.

Popular BB Creams

• Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF42 PA+++ (50ml) – Iconic BB cream with hydration + medium coverage. Great for dry and combination skin.
• Purito Cica Clearing BB Cream (30ml) – Soothing Cica formula, lightweight and non-comedogenic. Perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
• Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF50 PA+++ (40ml) – Luxurious BB cream with anti-aging actives and strong sun protection.

Popular CC Creams

• It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream (Korean market bestseller) – Full coverage CC with skincare benefits and SPF.
• Erborian CC Cream – Lightweight CC that adapts to your skin tone, brightens, and corrects redness.

✨ Explore more in our full collection of Korean BB & CC Creams →

FAQ: BB Cream vs CC Cream

1) What’s the main difference between BB and CC cream?

BB cream = “Beauty Balm”: light–medium coverage + skincare (hydration, soothing).
CC cream = “Color Correcting”: sheer–light coverage focused on neutralizing redness/dullness.

2) Which should I choose for redness or rosacea-prone skin?

Go for a CC cream, ideally a green-tinted formula to counteract redness. If you also want more coverage, layer a thin veil of BB cream on top.

3) Which is better for dry skin?

A hydrating BB cream with HA/Ceramides/Panthenol. Prep with a hydrating toner and moisturizer first for a dewy, comfortable finish.

4) Which is better for acne-prone or oily skin?

Look for non-comedogenic BB creams (Niacinamide/Cica) or ultra-light CC creams that even tone without weight. Set only the T-zone with a fine powder if needed.

5) Do I still need sunscreen if my BB/CC has SPF?

Yes. Use a dedicated SPF 50+ sunscreen as your last skincare step, then apply BB/CC. Makeup amounts rarely reach labeled SPF.

6) Can I layer CC and BB together?

Absolutely. Apply CC cream first to correct tone, then a thin layer of BB cream where you want extra coverage. Keep layers sheer for a skin-like finish.

7) How do I pick the right shade?

CC creams are more forgiving (self-adjusting tints). For BB creams, match to your neck/undertone; if unsure, choose the lighter of two shades and warm it up with bronzer.

8) Which lasts longer throughout the day?

Wear time depends on skin type and prep. For longevity, use a light hydrating base and set only where needed. Oily skin can use a small amount of setting powder on the T-zone.

9) Can I use BB/CC if I have sensitive skin?

Yes—choose gentle formulas (Cica, Panthenol, HA). Patch test first and avoid heavy fragrance if you’re reactive.

10) What’s the ideal routine order?

Skincare → Sunscreen → CC (optional) → BB → spot-conceal → set T-zone.

Explore our curated selection of Korean BB & CC creams to find your perfect match.