In today’s beauty world, BB creams have taken center stage. These multitasking products quickly earned cult status by streamlining skincare and makeup routines. With one product doing the job of five, it’s no surprise they remain a favorite.
However, they’re no longer the only option on the shelf. The rise of CC, DD, PP, and EE creams has introduced a range of targeted formulas—each offering unique benefits. Below, we break down what each of these alphabet creams does and help you choose the one best suited for your skin type and concerns.
In this Article
1. BB Creams: Beauty Balm for Everyday Radiance
BB stands for “Beauty Balm” or “Blemish Balm.” This all-in-one formula combines the benefits of a serum, moisturizer, SPF, primer, and foundation. It offers light coverage while hydrating the skin and calming irritation.
Its versatility makes it ideal for daily wear across all skin types. The result is a smoother, more radiant complexion with minimal effort.
Best for: All skin types
Key Benefits:
- Combines skincare and makeup in one step
- Soothes sensitive skin
- Provides light coverage and natural glow
Recommended Products:
- Maybelline New York Fit Me Fresh Tint, Lightweight, SPF 50 PA+++ & Vitamin C
This BB cream offers lightweight coverage with SPF 50 protection and the added benefit of Vitamin C for skin brightening. Shop here. - MARS Lightweight BB Cream Foundation
A budget-friendly option providing a natural finish, suitable for daily use. Shop here. - Pilgrim BB Cream with SPF 50 PA++++ Instant Spot Coverage
This BB cream offers high sun protection along with instant spot coverage, ideal for outdoor activities. Shop here.
2. CC Creams: Color Corrector for Uneven Tone
CC stands for “Color Correcting” or “Complexion Care.” These creams are designed to target issues like redness, dullness, and uneven skin tone. They contain color-correcting pigments that neutralize discoloration, helping to brighten and even out the complexion.
While effective for improving tone, CC creams may be too rich for oily or acne-prone skin.
Best for: Dull, red, or blotchy skin
Key Benefits:
- Neutralizes redness and sallowness
- Brightens the skin
- Offers a smoother, more balanced finish
Recommended Products:
- Lakme 9 to 5 Complexion Care Face CC Cream
A popular choice that combines makeup and skincare, providing coverage while moisturizing the skin. Shop here. - Ponds BB+ Cream Instant Spot Coverage + Light Make-up Glow
This cream offers instant spot coverage with a light makeup glow, suitable for everyday use. Shop here. - RENEE Face Base BB Cream with SPF 30 PA+++
Provides hydration, smooths skin, and offers sun protection with SPF 30, making it a versatile choice. Shop here.
3. DD Creams: Daily Defense with Age-Defying Perks
DD stands for “Daily Defense.” These creams combine the benefits of BB and CC creams with added protection against environmental stressors and signs of aging. They often include SPF, antioxidants, and moisturizing agents to defend the skin from sun damage and pollution.
In addition to hydrating and smoothing the skin, DD creams help reduce the appearance of fine lines and uneven tone, making them particularly beneficial for mature skin.
Best for: Skin showing signs of aging
Key Benefits:
- Provides daily sun and pollution protection
- Firms and hydrates the skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and uneven tone
Try this: Lakme Silk Naturelle Daily Foundation – A DD cream enriched with sunscreen, cucumber extract, and vitamin E
4. PP Creams: Pink Perfect for a Flawless Base
PP stands for “Pink Perfect.” These creams are primarily used as makeup primers. Infused with silicone particles, they help blur imperfections, minimize the appearance of pores, and smooth the skin’s surface.
Although they don’t provide much coverage on their own, they create an even base that enhances the finish and longevity of foundation or BB cream.
Best for: All skin types, especially for makeup prep
Key Benefits:
- Refines texture and blurs imperfections
- Smooths the skin for better makeup application
- Enhances the staying power of other face products
Recommended Read: Butter Skin: The Creamy Glow Trend & How to Get It
5. EE Creams: Extra Exfoliation for Renewed Skin
EE stands for “Extra Exfoliation.” These creams are formulated to remove dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and leave the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Many also include SPF and moisturizers to protect and hydrate the skin.
Although they provide multiple benefits, EE creams should be used sparingly and are not recommended for thin or sensitive skin, as frequent exfoliation can disrupt the skin barrier.
Best for: Normal to oily, textured skin
Key Benefits:
- Gently exfoliates dead skin cells
- Encourages skin renewal
- Offers added sun protection and hydration
Key Takeaway
Each alphabet cream—BB, CC, DD, PP, and EE—offers a specialized solution for both skincare and makeup. Whether you’re aiming to even out your skin tone, combat visible signs of aging, prep your face for makeup, or enhance your skin’s texture, there’s a formula designed just for you.
Understanding the purpose of each product—especially popular options like BB creams—can streamline your beauty routine while more effectively targeting your skin’s unique needs.
