The CC cream craze is officially here and after giving a bunch of them a go, I believe it is here to stay. Following the immense popularity of the BB creams, it was only a matter of time before the next letter of the alphabet was needed. BB creams, which is short for blemish or beauty balm, were initially created by dermatologists in Germany to help treat patients that had just undergone facial laser surgery. They are a hybrid makeup, that gives coverage while simultaneously providing skincare benefits to help treat and heal the skin. CC creams are much lighter in texture and are meant to color correct any dark spots, hyper pigmentation and acne scars, as well as brighten the complexion. Both BB and CC creams are suitable for all skin types. But I have to say, after wearing quite a few of these CC creams over the past few weeks, I am happy to report that they are definitely worth the quick lesson you may have to give yourself to understand them. And while perusing the internet for exact BB/CC cream differentiation, I found sephora.com to have some of the best selection of products and explanations/tips of how to use both. Here are 5 CC Creams to Try Right Now:
Smashbox CC Cream
I have to start with my standout favorite – Smashbox CC cream. I am a lukewarm fan of the Smashbox BB cream, but I’m thoroughly enjoying the CC cream. I found the shade range to be quite extensive, and my shade (fair) was a perfect match (Felicia aka Miss ThisThatBeauty is “dark”…and equally in love with Smashbox CC cream). The texture is extremely lightweight but does a great job of evening out my skin tone. Formulated with an SPF 30, this CC cream is meant to neutralize and brighten the skin and control oil throughout the day.
Available for $42.00 at Sephora.
Amore Pacific Color Cushion Compact
Already a fan of their skincare, I was excited to try Amore Pacific’s version of a CC cream. I was immediately drawn to the creams texture, though I often expect them to be a tad heavy; this was not the case. The feel was light and weightless with buildable coverage if needed. The shade range is slightly limited but if you find a shade that suits you, the benefits of the product are amazing. It has superior antioxidant and sun protection, clocking in at an SPF of 50, and keeps the skin significantly hydrated throughout the day. The puff applicator cools and soothes the skin as it goes on, and evens out any redness or discoloration flawlessly.
Available for $60.00 at Bergdorf Goodman.
Supergoop Daily Correct CC Cream
With Supergoop’s phenomenal success in the sunscreen arena, it only seems natural that they take a slight step to the side and venture into the market of CC creams. The Supergoop Daily Correct CC Cream formula combines the benefits of both a primer/foundation with anti-aging benefits to help smooth, even and correct the skin tone. Not only does the formula contain a broad spectrum SPF 35, it is also chock full of ingredients that are good for you and your skin. The team at Supergoop have a strong commitment to formulating their products with healthy ingredients and natural preservative systems, so this is a great choice for those of you who prefer a more natural product.
Available for $32.00 at Nordstrom.
Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream
Never a brand to shy away from skincare/makeup hybrids, Clinique is another option with many great benefits. Besides the fact that they are the sensitive skin holy grail brand, they also make products that are super effective with affordable price points. Double win! Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream is oil free and great for all skin types – lightweight to apply either alone or under foundation, with ingredients to help address dullness, sallowness and redness. They also have one of the most varied color ranges I have come across, with 8 shades to choose from.
Available for $35.00 at Sephora.
PUR minerals CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40
A CC cream with a touch more coverage, this Pur minerals version is a true multi-tasking product. It can be used as a moisturizer, concealer, skin brightener, primer and SPF foundation – basically it can do anything you may need it to do. Perfect alone or under other makeup, this silicone-free formula will help to correct and protect the skin’s appearance.
Available for $38.00 at Ulta.com
Have you tried any CC creams? Which are your favorites?
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And what about Rachel K CC Cream??
I have been using it now for more than two years and really find perfect. Great coverage, good moisturazing and anti-ageing properties and a nice flawless effect with matte finish (I have oily skin).
It is really the perfect CC Cream and it was the pioneer brand to launch this CC Cream craze since 2009.
Any review soon on Rachel K?
Hi Cynthia! I haven’t tried Rachel K but will keep my eyes peeled. Thanks!
I’m a huge fan if the Smashbox CC {partially because they actually have in my shade and also because it’s awesome sauce}, and I just received the Pur CC to review and am excited by its prospects {also because it matches me and now because you’ve vouched for it}. Now I really wanted to get into the Clinique, but alas, I found that the shade selection was not brown girl friendly. As for the Amore Pacific, I’ve heard nothing but stellar things about the brand so I’ll have to look into that and Super Goop- I received an itty bitty sample of the CC… In light. Womp Womp. Great post Maree!
Hi Quinn! Felicia here:) So
Glad you enjoyed the post and our picks. I’m sorry you didn’t find a shade in Clinique. I’m actually quite brown and found a shade to match quite well.