10 CC Creams to Try in Place of Foundation

Sephora
Getty/TanyaRow
Sephora
Getty/TanyaRow
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When you think of base makeup that's not foundation, the first thing that likely comes to mind is either a BB cream or a CC cream. But have you ever really thought about what the difference is between them? Let us help. BB, short for beauty balm, has brightening and smoothing ingredients but tends to be a little lighter in coverage, while CC cream, aka color correction cream, has all of the same great qualities plus a little something extra.

The best CC creams come with a side of skin care, formulated with ingredients that can minimize dark spots and fine lines over time to give you a better complexion in a matter of months. They also tend to be a bit thicker, which makes them ideal for the fall and winter seasons.

If this sounds like it's up your alley, but you aren't sure whether to start, we've got you covered. Ahead, we've rounded up the best CC creams out there, and we have options for everyone. Some are full-coverage, while others give off a more sheer look. Some are matte, while others are luminous. Whether you suffer from dry skin or oily skin, trust us — we've got a product for you. Keep on reading to shop our carefully curated selection.

Best Drugstore CC Cream
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Best Drugstore CC Cream

E.l.f. Cosmetics Camo CC Cream ($15)

There's a reason this E.l.f. Camo CC Cream went viral on TikTok (and in our office, because our editors love it): it's got medium to full coverage depending on how much you want to build on, and it gives a natural finish. It comes in 20 shades so it's easy to find your perfect match. Plus, the price won't break the bank.

Best Full-Coverage CC Cream
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Best Full-Coverage CC Cream

It Cosmetics CC + Cream SPF50 ($47)

If you've ever seen before-and-after photos of someone using the It Cosmetics CC+ Cream, you know the difference is jaw-dropping. This stuff can cover up acne, pores, and hyperpigmentation with just the buff of a brush. Plus, while most CC creams have just enough sunscreen, this one has SPF 50 for serious protection. If you want full coverage, this is going to be your go-to. It was formulated to cover up redness, and it does that and more.

Best CC Cream For Dry Skin
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Best CC Cream For Dry Skin

Pür 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer ($35)

The Pür 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer is our pick for those with dry skin. It's made with sodium hyaluronate to reduce dryness as well as aloe and vitamin E which help hydrate and soothe skin, and it offers a nice sheer coverage that won't weigh your skin down.

Best CC Cream For Oily Skin
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Best CC Cream For Oily Skin

Neutrogena Clear Coverage Color Correcting Cream ($12)

If you have oily skin, we'd recommed the Neutrogena Clear Coverage Color Correcting Cream. This full-coverage product offers a matte formula, so it won't exacerbate any shine you're already used to dealing with.

Best CC Cream For Sensitive Skin
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Best CC Cream For Sensitive Skin

Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective with Vitamin C Tinted Moisturizer ($22)

The Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective with Vitamin C Tinted Moisturizer is one of the best CC formulas we've tried, even for those with sensitive skin. It's a 6-in-1 skincare-makeup hybrid, that includes some of our favorite ingredients like vitamin C.

Best Lightweight CC Cream
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Best Lightweight CC Cream

Hey Honey Trick and Treat CC² Active Propolis Color Correcting Cream ($42)

The Hey Honey Trick and Treat CC² Active Propolis Color Correcting Cream is comfortably lightweight, so it can sit on the skin all day long. Plus, it has skin care benefits, so basically, sign us up.

Best Matte CC Cream
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Best Matte CC Cream

Dermablend Continuous Correction Tone-Evening CC Cream SPF 50+ ($41)

Dermablend Continuous Correction Tone-Evening CC Cream SPF 50+ comes in 16 shades. It's a great option for people with sensitive skin, since it's so lightweight and also non-comedogenic. It also offers full, matte coverage if you're looking to cover up any pesky breakouts.

Best Luminous CC Cream
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Best Luminous CC Cream

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination SPF 50+ ($47)

If you want glowy skin, join the club. The It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination SPF 50+ is the easiest way to get there; it gives you glowing, full coverage, which is ideal for us.

Best Vegan CC Cream
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Best Vegan CC Cream

Pacifica Ultra CC Cream Radiant Foundation ($22)

Pacifica Ultra CC Cream Radiant Foundation is cruelty-free, and it actually works. It's comfortable, hydrating, and will give you the even-toned skin you dream of. Plus, we love that the formula is vegan.