What’s the Difference Between BB Cream, CC Cream, Skin Tint, and Tinted Foundation?

No matter what your skin type, there is no shortage of options when it comes to decent skin coverage. Yet as more and more foundations and formulas hit store shelves, the selection can be overwhelming. Every new product or upgrade is hailed as the next big thing — adding yet another step in our increasingly detailed makeup routines.

Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. We talked to the experts to find out the differences among sheer, medium, and full-coverage foundations and skin tints, and the best time to wear each of them.

BB Cream vs. Tinted Moisturizer

Although both serve to hydrate skin and provide light coverage, BB creams and tinted moisturizers have distinct features. To start, “BB” stands for “blemish balm,” and it’s a multi-purpose product that combines skin care benefits with light coverage.

“[BB creams] typically contain a combination of moisturizer, sunscreen, and ingredients like antioxidants for anti-aging properties,” celebrity makeup artist Brandy Allen explains. “They provide a natural, sheer coverage that evens out the skin tone and can help blur imperfections. They are ideal for those looking for a lightweight, everyday option with some skin care benefits.”

Tinted moisturizer, though similar to BB cream, combines hydration and color, but often has fewer skin care ingredients. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. “It provides a sheer coverage that evens out the skin tone while moisturizing the skin,” Allen says. Tinted moisturizers also often have a dewy or skin-like finish, so they’re best for those with normal or dry skin types. People with oily skin might need to set a tinted moisturizer with powder for reduced shine. 

Popular BB Creams and Tinted Moisturizers To Try: 

• Maybelline Dream Fresh Skin Hydrating BB Cream, $7.59 at Amazon
• Jane Iredale Dream Tint Lightweight Tinted Moisturizer, $46 at Amazon
• Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation, $32 at Sephora
• Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint, $36 at Sephora
• ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Skincare Foundation, $48 at Sephora

BB Cream vs. CC Cream 

The “CC” in CC cream generally stands for “color corrector,” though brands have strayed from that exact definition. Like BB cream, CC cream features light coverage — but that’s where the similarities end. BB cream is often heavier because of its hydrating properties, while CC cream is lighter with a matte finish, which is great for those with oily or combination skin. 

CC cream also often has color-correcting pigments, so if you’re looking to hide dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or redness, choose this sheer-coverage option. 

Popular CC Creams To Try: 

• IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full Coverage Color Correcting Foundation with SPF 50+, $47 at Sephora
• Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Hydrating Colour Corrector Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $44 at Sephora
• Erborian Color Correcting CC Cream, $46 at Amazon

How Does Foundation Fit In?

Foundation provides more coverage than BB creams and tinted moisturizers and gives the wearer more options. It comes in powder, liquid, and cream formulas and offers different finishes, such as matte, satin, and dewy, that cater to different skin types and preferences. 

“BB creams and tinted moisturizers offer a lighter coverage with added skin care benefits, while foundation provides more coverage for a flawless complexion,” Allen explains. “The choice between these products depends on the desired level of coverage, skin care needs, and personal preferences.” 

Not only does foundation come in many forms, but it also comes in different coverage options. Light-coverage foundation is often called a skin tint because you can see your skin through the sheer formula. There are also medium- and full-coverage options depending on how much of your natural skin you want to cover and how full of a face beat you’re looking for. 

Popular Foundations To Try: 

• Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free Foundation, $7.49 at Amazon
• Wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation, $5.47 at Amazon
• Haus Labs by Lady Gaga Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation, $45 at Sephora