Nowadays, it's natural to expect your coverage product to also have skin-care benefits, what with all the anti-aging, zit-zapping, and hydrating bases on the market. BB creams (and other double-lettered iterations) served as the driving force behind the recent barrage of multitasking products on the market — and they've quickly become mainstays on our top shelves.For those unfamiliar with alphabet creams (or are still confused about what all those letters mean), here's a quick crash course: BB stands for "beauty balm" or "blemish balm" and BB creams are basically pumped-up versions of tinted moisturizers that usually include a nice amount of SPF. CC creams, on the other hand, offer hydration and SPF — like their BB counterparts — but add some color correction into the mix (hence, the CC).
DD creams are where it gets a little tricky, as many brands have different definitions for this category. Generally, DD creams tend to do "double duty" (and then some) — coverage, anti-aging, sun protection, etc. Now, are DD creams really that different from their double-lettered counterparts? It depends on the brand. Ultimately, you'll have to play around with the formulas to figure out which one makes the most sense for you and your needs — and not focus too much on their position in the alphabet.
Not sure which one to try first? Click ahead to learn more and read about our favorites in each category.
BB
Although this watery BB cream looks white when you first apply it, tiny pigment beads in the formula burst as you buff it onto your skin. Plus, we love the sheer-to-medium coverage and skin-like finish it leaves behind.
L'Oréal Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream, $10.99, available at Ulta.
This product is pretty popular — and for good reason. The formula comes in eight creamy shades that offer enough coverage to hide minor flaws while feeling nearly weightless on the skin.
Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream, $39, available at Sephora.
Garnier's BB cream is one of the best drugstore options we've tried. It's easy to apply with fingers and provides a beautiful dewy finish.
Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector, $12.99, available at Ulta.
CC
This CC cream provides coverage (and SPF protection) out the wazoo. Because its texture is on the thicker side, you need to spend a little more time and care blending it in. But the result is plump, hydrated skin with zero flaws and one helluva glow.
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+, $38, available at It Cosmetics.
Cushion compacts have become extremely popular in the last few years. So much so that brands have launched primer, blush, and even eye products that feature the bouncy packaging.
We love them because they're so easy to apply: simply tap a sponge or makeup brush into the cushion to pick up product and buff or stipple the liquid-y formula onto your face. This CC compact neutralizes redness and provides a radiant, fresh-faced finish.
AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact, $60, available at Sephora.
DD
From the makers of one of our favorite honey-infused lip balms comes a multitasking DD cream that's perfect for daily wear. It's a great base to slap on if you're looking for a little coverage (in this way, it's similar to many BBs out there), hydration, and SPF before running out the door.
NUXE Crème Prodigieuse DD Crème, $22.32, available at Feel Unique.
We think of this DD cream as more of a hydrating primer than a foundation alternative. It doesn't offer any coverage (it has no tint), but it keeps our skin looking plump and radiant all day while blurring imperfections. This option is ideal for those who want a hyper-natural look, but have some fine lines to soften and smooth.
Pür Rescue Squad DD Crème, $35, available at Ulta.
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