The Difference Between BB, CC and DD Creams

The Difference Between BB, CC & DD Creams (Click to enlarge)

BB Creams
BB cream stands for blemish balm, blemish base, beblesh balm (apparently because of a trademark in Korea on the word "blemish"), and in Western markets, beauty balm. It is a cosmetic item sold mainly in East and Southeast Asia, although the majority of larger beauty brands have introduced BB creams to Western markets. BB cream is promoted as an all-in-one facial cosmetic product to replace serum, moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunblock. It can be worn alone as a tinted moisturizer, over serum and moisturizer as a regular foundation, and under powder, depending on the desired amount of coverage. 

CC Creams
CC cream is a marketing term coined in the wake of the marketing term Blemish Balm cream or Beauty Balm. Both BB creams and CC creams are tinted moisturizers containing sun protection. There is no scientific definition for either term, nor is there quantifiable basis for difference between BB creams and CC creams: differences between the two vary from brand to brand. CC cream is used by some brands to mean Color Control cream, or Color Correcting cream, and some brands claim to reduce the appearance of skin redness or sallowness or to improve uneven skin tone. BB (Blemish Balm) cream was originally formulated in Germany and has in recent years gained popularity in Asia, and is also gaining popularity Europe and North America. Coverage can vary greatly among the different brands, and differences are more often than not minimal when compared to BB creams. Some users apply them as primers rather than as a replacement for foundation. If you're acne-prone, have dull skin, dark spots or constant redness, CC cream is for you. Use CC cream to help with redness, acne, dark spots, sallowness and more. It's also lighter than BB cream! 

DD Creams
DD creams combine the power and benefits of both BB and CC creams. However, their primary focus is anti-aging. The anti-aging speciality of the cream works to diminish wrinkles and fine lines throughout use. Additionally, DD cream will balance skin tone and protect the most sensitive areas of your skin. Supposedly, you'll really see improvements in your skin with continued use, so use often and incorporate it into your daily routine! DD cream's strongest selling point is their anti-aging benefits. If you're looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, this cream is the cream for you. 

Source: Wikipedia & Marie Claire