The Lo Down: beauty concealers

BB, CC, and (soon!) DD creams. Let me say from the start that you are forgiven if you don’t know what these acronyms stand for or what the differences between these creams are. These duo-syllabic products have impressed beauty enthusiasts around the world and South Africans are increasingly enthusiastic about what have been dubbed “miracle creams”. So, if you don’t yet have one of these beauty products in your handbag, read on to find out why you should.

Forget the ABCs, it’s time to learn your BCDs

Let’s explore these alphabetically. First up is the alpha version: the BB cream which stands for “blemish balm” or “beauty balm”. This all-in-one cosmetic product boasts a range of skin benefits from acting as a primer before applying a foundation, working as a tinted moisturiser, and incorporating an SPF to fight against the damaging effects of the sun. Beauty is in the eye of the (BB)holder and this cream is a firm favourite in makeup drawers around the world.

BB cream is for you if: you have young, elastic skin and prefer a more natural look. BB creams provide the least amount of coverage of the three alphabet creams and work well in covering up slight imperfections.

The next generation is the CC cream, also known as a “coverage control” or “colour corrector” cream. As with the BB cream, the CC cream contains SPF sun protection as well as light-reflecting ingredients to offset a dull complexion. The strength of the CC cream is that it is more of a treatment than a beauty product with strong anti-ageing ingredients including vitamins C and E.

CC cream is for you if: your skin has a tendency to appear red or sallow. It helps with soothing and correcting dark spots and blemishes and is also recommended if you are prone to blackhead breakouts.

And finally, the latest addition to the family: the “daily defence” or “dynamic do-all” DD cream. This product is yet to hit our SA shores but those in the know suggest that the DD cream will be an intensively hydrating version of the BB/CC creams.

DD cream is for you if: you have slightly older skin with the appearance of sunspots and fine lines. It is also tipped to be a powerful anti-ageing product and particularly useful to those with sensitive skin.

What’s the verdict?

The alphabet creams are a great way to streamline your daily skincare routine due to their dual roles are both skincare and makeup products. With less time to spend in front of our bathroom mirrors, the appeal of these quick and easy products is hard to ignore. In just one bottle, it’s possible to moisturise, prime, treat, restore, lighten, smooth, conceal, cover, and protect your skin. Head to your nearest in-store beauty counter and ask for a few samples from various beauty brands to try out at home. It’s as easy as B-C-D.

Cosmetic tubes