BB cream vs CC cream vs tinted moisturizer is a comparison of three light alternatives to foundation. All three even out the skin with less coverage and effort than a traditional base, and many include skincare ingredients. The names are used loosely, and products differ from brand to brand, so it helps to know what each term usually means.
How we compared them
This overview is drawn from how makers generally describe these three product types, and from their typical ingredients. Formulas vary widely between brands, and we did not test individual products.
Tinted moisturizer
A moisturizer with a small amount of pigment.
- Coverage: sheer.
- Feel: like a light lotion.
- Purpose: hydration with a hint of color, for a natural, "skin showing through" look.
- Shades: often few, because the sheer tint adapts to a range of tones.
"Skin tints" are similar, usually thinner and more serum-like.
BB cream
BB stands for "blemish balm" or "beauty balm".
- Coverage: light to medium. More than a tinted moisturizer.
- Feel: creamy. Slightly thicker.
- Purpose: an all-in-one of moisturizer, light coverage and, often, sunscreen.
- Note: BB creams originating in East Asia tend to be fuller in coverage than many Western versions.
CC cream
CC stands for "color correcting" or "complexion corrector".
- Coverage: light to medium.
- Feel: often lighter and more whipped than a BB cream.
- Purpose: to neutralize uneven tone, such as redness, sallowness or dullness, sometimes with color-adjusting pigments.
Side-by-side comparison
| Tinted moisturizer | BB cream | CC cream | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Sheer | Light to medium | Light to medium |
| Main focus | Hydration | All-in-one base | Evening out tone |
| Texture | Light lotion | Creamy | Light, fluffy or fluid |
| Finish | Dewy to natural | Natural to dewy | Natural to matte |
| Often has SPF | Sometimes | Often | Often |
| Best for | Dry and normal skin; minimal looks | Most skin types; quick routines | Redness, dullness, uneven tone |
These are tendencies, not rules. Always read the description of the particular product.
Which should you choose?
| Your skin or goal | Likely fit |
|---|---|
| Dry skin; a fresh, barely-there look | Tinted moisturizer |
| One product for busy mornings | BB cream |
| Redness or uneven tone | CC cream |
| Oily skin | An oil-free BB or CC cream with a matte or natural finish |
| Mature skin | A hydrating tinted moisturizer, or a CC cream |
| More coverage needed | A foundation. See Liquid vs Powder Foundation: Coverage and Finish |
About the SPF
Many of these products list SPF 15 to 50. To get the protection on the label, you would need to apply a generous layer, about a quarter of a teaspoon for the face, which is more than most people use of a tinted product. Treat the SPF as a bonus, and wear a separate sunscreen underneath. See Face Sunscreen Buying Guide: Protection and Finish.
Skincare claims
BB and CC creams often promise hydration, brightening, anti-aging or oil control. They may contain helpful ingredients, such as glycerin, niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. They are still makeup first. Do not rely on them to replace your moisturizer or treatments, especially if your skin is dry.
How to apply
- Cleanse, moisturize, and apply sunscreen.
- Squeeze a small amount onto the back of your hand.
- Dot it on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin.
- Blend with clean fingers for a sheer look, or a damp sponge for an even finish.
- Add concealer where you need more coverage.
- Set the T-zone with powder, if you get shiny.
Shade matching
Shade ranges for these products are often limited. Because the coverage is sheer, a near match is forgiving. Check that the undertone suits you, and test in daylight. Deeper skin tones should look for brands with wider ranges, to avoid an ashy cast. See How to Choose the Right Foundation Shade.
What to check on the label
- Coverage and finish.
- "Oil-free" or "non-comedogenic", for breakout-prone skin.
- Fragrance, if you are sensitive.
- SPF and "broad spectrum".
- Shade range.
These light bases are the starting point of a quick daily look. See Everyday Makeup: A Simple Look for Work or College. For coverage and finish terms, see Foundation Coverage and Finish: A Beginner's Guide.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BB and CC cream?
BB cream is an all-in-one light base with moisture, and often SPF. CC cream focuses more on correcting uneven tone, such as redness. In practice, they overlap.
Can BB cream replace foundation?
Yes, if light to medium coverage is enough for you. Add concealer for areas that need more.
Do I still need sunscreen with a tinted moisturizer that has SPF?
It is safer to wear a separate sunscreen, because most people do not apply enough tinted product to reach the labeled protection.