The Best CC Creams for Flawless, Natural Coverage in 2023

What is CC Cream?

CC cream stands for color correcting cream. It is an all-in-one skin care product that combines the benefits of a moisturizer, sunscreen, anti-aging serum, and foundation. CC creams provide lightweight, natural looking coverage while hydrating and protecting the skin.

The original CC creams were created in South Korea and became popular due to their ability to even out skin tone, conceal blemishes, minimize the appearance of pores, and provide SPF protection. The key benefits of CC cream include:

• Evens out skin tone
• Reduces appearance of redness and acne
• Hydrates skin
• Contains SPF protection from UVA/UVB rays
• Lightweight coverage
• Easy and fast to apply

CC creams are ideal for those looking for light, natural coverage as opposed to full coverage foundations. They provide just enough coverage to even out skin tone without looking or feeling heavy.

How is CC Cream Different From BB Cream?

BB cream stands for blemish or beauty balm. BB creams also provide multiple skin care benefits while offering light coverage. However, there are some key differences between BB and CC creams:

• Coverage: CC creams offer slightly more coverage than BB creams.
• Color correction: The "CC" stands for color correcting, meaning these creams are formulated to address issues like redness or sallowness.
• Ingredients: CC creams contain more anti-aging ingredients like peptides compared to BB creams.
• SPF: CC creams typically contain a higher SPF than BB creams.

While BB creams focus more on prevention and maintenance with ingredients like antioxidants, CC creams aim to correct issues like uneven skin tone, discoloration, and redness. The extra coverage, color correcting pigments, and higher SPF make CC creams better for those with more pronounced skin concerns. However, those new to complexion products may want to start with a BB cream first.

How to Apply CC Cream

One of the major benefits of CC cream is how quick and easy it is to apply:

1. Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply your regular moisturizer and let it fully absorb first.
2. Dispense a small amount of CC cream onto your fingers or a makeup sponge.
3. Dot the CC cream onto areas of the face that need more coverage like the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.
4. Blend outwards using either a makeup sponge, foundation brush, or just your fingers.
5. Add more product where needed to build coverage and even out skin tone.
6. Set with a translucent powder to increase longevity, especially if you have oily skin.

When applying CC cream, less is more. You want a thin, even layer for the most natural looking finish. Build up coverage only where needed rather than applying a thick layer all over. CC creams are also easy to reapply throughout the day for a quick refresh.

Tips for Applying CC Cream

• Moisturize first - CC creams apply best over hydrated skin.
• Use a primer if needed for oily/acne-prone skin.
• Dispense a pea sized amount first and add more as needed.
• Warm the product between fingers before applying.
• Use downward strokes and blend out edges.
• Add concealer if more coverage is needed.
• Set with powder to increase wear time.

How to Choose the Best CC Cream

With so many CC creams on the market, how do you pick the best one for your skin? Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a CC cream:

• Skin type - opt for oil-free CC creams if you have oily/acne-prone skin. Look for more hydrating formulas for dry or mature skin.
• Coverage - sheer, light, medium or full coverage options are available. Sheer CC creams even out skin tone lightly while full coverage formulas provide foundation-like coverage.
• Color - test CC creams on your jawline to find the right match for your skin tone. Opt for a formula with warm, cool, or neutral undertones.
• Finish - dewy or luminous CC creams give a glow while matte formulas control oil and shine.
• SPF - aim for broad spectrum SPF 30 protection or higher from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Ingredients - look for added skin care benefits like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, or peptides.

Try samples first whenever possible to test the coverage and color match before purchasing. Read reviews online as well to find top rated CC creams based on different skin types and concerns.

Top Rated CC Creams

Some of the top CC creams on the market include:

• It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte
• Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream
• L'Oreal Paris RevitaLift CC Cream
• Supergoop CC Cream Daily Correct Broad Spectrum SPF 35 Sunscreen
• Tarte Cosmetics CC Colored Clay Corrector
• COOLA Full Spectrum 360° Mineral Primer CC Cream SPF 30
• Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream
• Algenist Reveal Color Correcting Anti-Aging Serum SPF 30

Common Questions About CC Creams

Does CC cream replace foundation?

CC cream can replace foundation for those looking for lighter, more natural coverage. The coverage of CC creams ranges from sheer to full coverage. Those with moderate to severe acne or very uneven skin tone may still need foundation in addition to CC cream for the best coverage.

Does CC cream have anti-aging benefits?

Many CC creams contain anti-aging ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid. However, the concentrations may not be as high as dedicated anti-aging serums. CC creams with added SPF protection can help prevent premature skin aging from sun damage.

Is CC cream good for oily skin?

There are CC creams formulated specifically for oily and acne-prone skin. Look for oil-free formulas with a matte finish. Using oil-blotting sheets and setting the CC cream with powder can also help control shine throughout the day.

Does CC cream clog pores?

CC creams are less likely to clog pores than full coverage foundations. However, those with very acne-prone skin may want to spot test first, especially with richer creams. Using a daily salicylic acid cleanser helps keep pores clear.

Does CC cream provide sun protection?

Most CC creams contain SPF protection against UVA/UVB rays. However, the level of protection can range from SPF 15 to 50. For adequate sun protection, use a CC cream with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours when outdoors.

Conclusion

CC creams provide the perfect quick and easy product for light, natural looking coverage. They offer a multitude of benefits by combining sunscreen, anti-aging ingredients, and lightweight foundation into one product. Just one easy step gives you protection, hydration, and an even, flawless complexion.

When shopping for a CC cream, keep your own skin type and needs in mind. Test different formulas to find your ideal color match and level of coverage. Apply and blend out CC cream just like you would a tinted moisturizer for quick, fool-proof application. A CC cream simplifies your routine while still perfecting your complexion.

FAQs

Can I wear CC cream every day?

Yes, CC cream can be worn daily. Its lightweight coverage makes it suitable for everyday wear. Just be sure to cleanse properly at night to avoid clogged pores.

What is the difference between CC and BB creams?

CC creams provide more coverage and color correction compared to BB creams. CC creams also typically contain a higher SPF level.

Is CC or BB cream better?

It depends on your skin type and needs. Those with more acne, redness, or discoloration may prefer a CC cream for extra coverage and color correction. BB creams are better for prevention and maintenance.

Can I layer CC cream over foundation?

Yes, CC cream can be applied on top of foundation for a dewy, luminous finish. This works best with a damp makeup sponge. Use a light hand to avoid looking cakey.

How do I make my CC cream last longer?

Use a makeup primer, set with powder, and/or use a setting spray to make CC cream last all day. Blotting oil and reapplying also helps increase wear time.