Top-Rated CC Creams for Radiant Skin: Our Expert Picks

Overview

When it comes to achieving a flawless complexion, CC creams have become a popular choice among beauty enthusiasts. CC creams, which stand for color correcting, complexion corrector, or color control creams, are multifunctional beauty products that can help you achieve flawless and natural-looking skin. CC creams are used to:

• Correct uneven skin tone, redness, dark spots, and other discolorations.
• Hydrate and nourish the skin with moisturizing and anti-aging ingredients.^[1]
• Protect the skin from sun damage with SPF.
• Improve the texture and appearance of the skin over time.

CC creams are ideal for people who want light to medium coverage that looks natural and feels comfortable on the skin.

They are also great for people with specific skin concerns, such as rosacea, hyperpigmentation,^[2] or dullness, that need extra attention. CC creams can be used alone or under foundation, depending on your desired level of coverage.

CC Creams typically have more skincare benefits than a traditional foundation, and as we age, ensuring our makeup includes skincare benefits is essential, are the words of veteran makeup artist Laura Geller.

Therefore we have brought you a list of the best CC creams to make your life a little easy.

How to Pick the Best CC Cream?

Getting lost in the makeup section just to find the right CC cream is not surprising. It can be one of the most difficult puzzles to find the perfect shade of CC cream for your face. Your one choice will decide whether you will look like a dazzling diva or risk fading into a spooky pale look.

But don’t sweat it, we’ve got you covered with our handy guide to help you choose the perfect CC cream. And to top it off, we’ve rounded up our top picks of CC creams just for you.

Determining your skin tone and undertone is crucial for finding the right makeup products, such as CC creams. Your skin tone refers to the actual color of your skin, which can fall into categories like fair, light, medium, or dark. On the other hand, Undertone is the underlying shade beneath the surface.

It can be categorized as cool, warm, or neutral. You can check your undertone by observing the veins on your wrist: green indicates warm undertones, blue or purple suggests cool undertones and a combination or difficulty in determining indicates neutral undertones. Understanding your undertone helps in selecting CC creams that suit your complexion.

“A high-quality CC Cream should not only correct redness and discoloration but also address other skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. Look for products enriched with anti-aging ingredients for added benefits.” – Dr. Sophia Ramirez, Plastic Surgeon

And the final test is to check CC creams under natural light to find the right color for your skin. It is best to avoid store lighting as it can be misleading. Remember to test products on your jawline, as it reflects your skin’s true color.

Best CC Cream for Mature Skin

Erborian CC Cream Radiance Color Corrector SPF 25

(4.4/5.0)Read Reviews$46.00 At Amazon

Erborian CC Cream’s remarkable product that tops our list contains encapsulated pigments that not only enhance your skin’s appearance but also enrich and improve its texture and quality.

We gave it the first position because it has Centella Asiatica extract^[3], a Korean medicine that is found to be beneficial for the skin. This CC cream is the perfect fusion of skincare and makeup.

What we loved is the standout feature of this CC Cream that it has SPF 25 UV protection, which shields your skin from harmful sun damage. With each application, we noticed the encapsulated pigments transformed and burst out revealing their true colors.

This color-correcting formula seamlessly blends into the skin, enhancing the natural complexion. And this made the skin look unified, and its texture appears refined, creating a luminous and soft finish that minimizes the appearance of blemishes.

This CC Cream offers more than just cosmetic benefits. It leaves the skin feeling soothed, hydrated, and healthy-looking. The combination of coverage, skin-enhancing qualities,^[4] and nourishing hydration makes this CC Cream a go-to choice for effortlessly flawless and radiant skin.

Upsides

• It contains vitamin B3 which can help strengthen the skin barrier and brighten the skin.
• Blurs the appearance of imperfections.
• Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
• Contains botanical ingredients for added skincare benefits
• Can be used as a primer or standalone product
• Comes in different shades to match various skin tones

Downsides

• May not provide enough coverage for those with severe bumps or skin discoloration
• Requires blending for an even application
• May not be long-lasting and may require touch-ups throughout the day

Best For

The Erborian CC Cream Radiance Color Corrector SPF 25 is best suited for individuals who desire a lightweight, multitasking product that provides color correction, sun protection, and a radiant finish.

Additionally, those who prefer a more natural and luminous look, with mild imperfections to address, may benefit the most from this CC cream.

Key Facts

Safety: Parabens-free, Sulfates-free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 0.99 Ounces | Brand: Erborian | Manufacturer: 1T6IW

Best Drugstore CC Cream

Perbelle CC Cream

(4.2/5.0)Read Reviews $44.00 At Amazon

This is a revolutionary all-in-one Shade Adjusting Color Correcting Cream, a multifunctional product that combines the benefits of a moisturizer, makeup base, and foundation.

This innovative cream is designed to conceal blemishes such as redness and pores, providing you with a flawlessly even complexion and a fresh, natural makeup finish.

What we love is, unique formula that adjusts itself to match your complexion. This means you no longer need to worry about color mismatches.

Additionally, it offers SPF 43 sun protection^[5] which is said to be highly effective, ensuring your skin stays shielded from harmful UV rays.

The cream goes beyond mere color correction. It acts as a versatile makeup base and foundation, creating an even complexion and effectively concealing pigmentation.

Its intense moisturizing capabilities are powered by Hyaluronic Acid, providing long-lasting hydration.

Our tester experience says, this cream absorbs quickly, leaving behind a non-oily finish. Its lightweight formula feels comfortable on the skin while offering exceptional durability. This Shade Adjusting Color Correcting Cream is a true game-changer in achieving a flawless and radiant complexion.

Upsides

• Versatile and all-in-one product addressing multiple skin concerns.
• Adjusts to your skin tone, eliminating the hassle of finding the right shade.
• Suitable for all skin types with its lightweight formula and non-oily finish.
• Offers SPF 43 sun protection, safeguarding the skin from harmful UV rays.
• Provides intense moisturization with the presence of Hyaluronic Acid.
• Anti-aging effects powered by Adenosine, promote a more youthful appearance.

Downsides

• May not provide the same level of coverage as dedicated concealer products.
• Some users may prefer a different level of sun protection (higher or lower SPF).
• Individual preferences for the finish (matte or dewy) may vary.

Best For

This Shade Adjusting Color Correcting Cream is a versatile and all-in-one product for all skin types. It is best for people looking for natural makeup finish. The unique feature of adjusting to your skin tone makes it ideal for those struggling to find the right shade.

Key Facts

Safety: Non-greasy | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 1.45 Ounces | Brand: NVLEPTAP | Manufacturer: NVLEPTAP

Best CC Cream for Oily Skin

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream

(4.3/5.0)Read Reviews $35.25 At Amazon

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream is formulated with a blend of high-quality ingredients that work together to enhance your skin’s appearance. It incorporates hyaluronic acid, known for its hydrating properties, helping to plump and moisturize the skin.

Niacinamide^[6] contributes to the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, while vitamin E nourishes and protects against environmental stressors.

These ingredients, along with others, create a powerful formula that not only provides coverage but also cares for your skin. It is suitable for various skin types, including dry, sensitive, and mature skin.

One reviewer says, “IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream is a complete choice, offering convenience with its coverage, sunscreen, and wide shade range. It effectively addresses the needs of individuals with uneven and aging skin.”

Upsides

• Full-coverage foundation
• Hydrating & anti-aging serum
• SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen

Downsides

• Limited shades
• Not for those who want matte skin

Best for:

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream is best suited for individuals looking to achieve a radiant and perfected complexion. It is particularly beneficial for those with uneven skin tone, blemishes, or dryness.

Key Facts

Safety: Animal Cruelty-Free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 1 Fl Oz | Brand: IT Cosmetics | Manufacturer: Generic

Best CC Cream for Acne-Prone Skin

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream

(4.4/5.0)Read Reviews$39.50 At Amazon

Juice Beauty’s STEM CELLULARTM CC Cream is a remarkable beauty product that offers a multitude of benefits for the skin. This CC cream comes in seven shades that cater to a wide range of skin tones.

What sets it apart is its ability to adapt and blend seamlessly with the natural skin color, thanks to Juice Beauty’s commitment to using no artificial dyes.

What we love about this cram is it is Infused with stem cellular technology, therefore it can offer advanced skincare benefits.

The ingredients caught our attention with a blend of fruit stem cells, Vitamin C ^[7], and resveratrol-rich grapeseed, which are found to work together to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin.

Our tester experience says it helped in improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, resulting in a smoother, more youthful complexion.

This CC cream also provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection, shielding the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Upside

• Multi-benefit formula saves time and effort.
• Anti-aging properties for a youthful complexion.
• The wide shade range for various skin tones.
• Natural ingredients, no artificial dyes.
• Broad-spectrum SPF protection.

Downside

• Lighter coverage than traditional foundations.
• Some may find the scent unpleasant.

Best for:

This CC cream is an ideal choice for individuals looking to achieve a flawless complexion while simultaneously addressing signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. It is perfect for all skin types, with seven shades available, it can match and enhance any skin type and color.

Key Facts

Safety: Vegan, Cruelty-free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 1.7 fl oz | Brand: Juice Beauty | Manufacturer: Juice Beauty

Best CC Cream for Dry Skin

ELF Camo CC Cream

(4.1/5.0)Read Reviews$15.00 At Amazon

This multitasking dream cream is the ultimate solution for a natural-looking complexion with full coverage. We love this foundation for several reasons.

Firstly, it provides medium-to-full coverage with a natural finish, giving your skin a flawless appearance. Secondly, it is formulated with SPF 30, offering essential sun protection and shielding your skin from harmful UV rays.^[8]

But that’s not all – this foundation goes beyond coverage. It is infused with hydrating and youth-boosting ingredients that improve your skin’s texture and tone. It contains Hyaluronic Acid which moisturizes the skin.

“Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the skin, [and] it helps to bind water to collagen, trapping it in the skin, so that skin can appear plumper, dewier, and more hydrated,” Tsippora Shainhouse, a board-certified dermatologist.

What we loved the most is ,it contains Niacinamide that brightens and evens out skin tone, while peptides refresh and rejuvenate your complexion. Not to mention, it is enriched with skin-loving collagen.

Upside

• Excellent coverage
• Long-lasting, lightweight, and comfortable formula
• Contains beneficial skincare ingredients
• Available in a range of shades

Downside

• May not provide sufficient hydration for dry skin
• Settles into fine lines or emphasizes texture
• Potential for transfer or smudging

Best For

This cream may be best for people who have normal to oily skin, or skin with imperfections that need medium-to-full coverage and color correction. It may also be suitable for people who prefer a natural finish and SPF protection.

Key Facts

Safety: Oil Free | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.05 Oz | Brand: e.l.f. Cosmetics | Manufacturer: e.l.f. Cosmetics

Best CC Cream for Aging Skin

Tarte Colored Clay Undereye Corrector

(4.5/5.0) Read Reviews$25.00 At Amazon

Introducing the ultimate solution for dark circles, the revolutionary undereye color corrector. This multi-tasking, nutrient-rich concealer has captured our hearts with its exceptional benefits.

What our tester noticed was it effectively helps even out skin tone instantly, and works wonders in reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

What sets this product apart is its full-coverage formula, ensuring that even the most stubborn dark circles are flawlessly concealed.

The best part is this color corrector has got you covered with its waterproof properties, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting wear.

A user named Allie, shared her experience on Amazon saying,” This is a great product that looks so natural and takes away your dark circles- lasts all day and you only need to use a little bit, so the CC itself lasts a very long time. I love this. I don’t even wear concealer anymore- you don’t need it with this CC.”

Upside

• Effective color correction for dark circles.
• The multi-tasking formula acts as a concealer for other imperfections.
• Enriched with nourishing ingredients like clay and natural pigments.
• Provides long-lasting coverage.

Downside

• Limited shade range may not cater to all skin tones.
• Some users may find the texture to be too thick or heavy.
• Pricier compared to other undereye correctors available in the market.

Best for:

The Tarte Colored Clay Undereye Corrector is best suited for individuals who struggle with dark circles or discoloration under their eyes. Its multi-tasking formula acts as both a color corrector and a concealer, making it a convenient option.

Key Facts

Safety: Oil Free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 0.1 Ounces | Brand: Tarte | Manufacturer: Tarte

Best CC Cream for Rosacea

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream

(4.2/5.0) Read Reviews $28.00 At Amazon

CLINIQUE Moisture Surge CC Cream is the ultimate multitasker for your skin. It moisturizes, perfects, and protects with SPF 30. Say goodbye to redness, dullness, and sallowness.This lightweight formula color corrects and gives you a healthy glow.

We loved that it hydrates the skin and keeps the skin plump, smooth, and shielded from environmental damage. This can be due to hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich vitamin E.^[9]

Our tester says, it offers a natural-looking, medium coverage with a dewy finish. You can choose from six shades to match your skin tone.

Application is a breeze – use your fingers, sponge, or brush to blend it in all over or target specific areas. Mix it with your moisturizer or serum for sheer, customized coverage.

This CC cream is one-stop solution for flawless, glowing skin, combining the benefits of moisturizer, color corrector, and sunscreen.

Upgrade your skincare routine with this oil-free gel-cream moisturizer that deeply hydrates, going 10 layers deep and lasting for 100 hours, even after washing your face.

Upsides

• Oil-free and fragrance-free formula
• Lightweight and comfortable on the skin

Downsides

• Low SPF
• Over-drying
• Short-lasting formula with smudging and creasing issues

Best for:

CLINIQUE Moisture Surge CC Cream is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. But is ideal for those with dry or normal skin, seeking hydration and nourishment. It’s perfect for correcting mild to moderate skin discolorations and offers a natural, fresh look with light to medium coverage.

Key Facts

Safety: Paraben-free, Phthalate-free, Fragrance-free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 1.4 Fl Oz | Brand: Clinique | Manufacturer: PerfumeWorldWide, Inc.

Best CC Cream for Sensitive Skin

Neutrogena Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream

(4.3/5.0)Read Reviews$13.99 At Amazon

The Neutrogena® Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream is a game-changing beauty product developed with dermatologists specifically for acne-prone skin.

This innovative CC cream offers full coverage without the worry of exacerbating acne breakouts. With its clean formula, this CC cream is free from oil, fragrance, parabens, SLS/SLES sulfates, and phthalates, ensuring it won’t irritate or clog pores.

Our tester noticed, it helps to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne. It provides a beautiful matte finish while effectively concealing skin imperfections and evening out skin tone. Its lightweight and blendable formula ensures a natural-looking result without feeling heavy or cakey.

Not only does this CC cream offer coverage and a matte finish, but it also serves as a color corrector, masking skin imperfections and promoting a more even skin tone.

Upsides

• Contains niacinamide (vitamin B3) for soothing and brightening the skin.
• Wide range of shades 34 options.
• Clean formula: oil-free, fragrance-free, and free from harmful chemicals.
• Provides a flawless matte finish to control shine and oiliness.

Downsides

• Not highly hydrating or moisturizing for dry skin types.
• May require setting with powder for better longevity and transfer resistance.

Best For:

The Neutrogena® Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream is best suited for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.

Key Facts

Safety: Oil-free & Fragrance-free | Skin Type: All Types of Skin | Size: 1 oz | Brand: Neutrogena | Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson

Tips for applying CC cream

• Start with a clean and moisturized face. This provides a smooth canvas for your CC cream application.
• Squeeze a small amount of CC cream onto your fingertips or a makeup sponge. Remember, a little goes a long way.
• Apply small dots of the CC cream to your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. These are the key areas where you want coverage.
• Gently blend the CC cream using circular motions or upward strokes. This helps achieve an even and natural-looking application.
• Pay attention to areas that need extra coverage, such as blemishes, redness, or dark spots. Dab a bit more CC cream and blend it in for targeted coverage.
• Take a moment to check if there are any visible lines or uneven areas. Use your fingertips or a sponge to blend and smooth out any inconsistencies.
• If desired, you can follow up with a light dusting of translucent powder to set the CC cream and increase its longevity.
• Complete your makeup routine with other products like blush, bronzer, or mascara, if desired. CC cream provides a versatile base for additional makeup application.

How Does CC Cream Work?

CC creams typically have a lightweight and moisturizing formula that blends easily into the skin. They contain pigments that help even out skin tone and conceal imperfections such as redness, dark spots, and discoloration.

The pigments in CC creams are usually color-correcting, meaning they have undertones that counteract specific skin concerns.

For example, green pigments can neutralize redness, while peach or orange pigments can counteract dark circles. In addition to providing coverage, CC creams often contain skincare ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and moisturizers.

These ingredients can nourish and hydrate the skin, improve its texture and elasticity, and provide anti-aging benefits. Some CC creams also offer sun protection with the inclusion of SPF, helping to shield the skin from harmful UV rays.

How to Apply?

To use CC cream, you can apply it to cleansed and moisturized skin. It can be applied with fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush, depending on personal preference.

Start by applying a small amount and blending it evenly onto the skin, focusing on areas that require coverage or color correction. You can build up the coverage by layering more cream if needed.

CC creams are suitable for various skin types, including dry, oily, and combination skin. They offer a lighter coverage compared to traditional foundations, providing a more natural and dewy finish.

“When it comes to CC Cream, it’s important to choose one that offers broad-spectrum sun protection and color correction. Look for ingredients like antioxidants and SPF to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant.” – Lisa Thompson, Beauty Editor at Glamour Magazine

CC creams are often chosen for their convenience, as they simplify the beauty routine by combining multiple steps into one product.

It’s important to note that the specific formulation and benefits of CC creams may vary between different brands and products.

It’s recommended to choose a CC cream that matches your skin type and desired coverage, and addresses your specific skin concerns.

Our Selection Process for Best CC Cream?

Our selection process for determining the best CC creams involved meticulous research and analysis to ensure that we bring you the most reliable and effective options.

We began by considering the key factors that make a CC cream outstanding, including coverage, skincare benefits, sun protection, and shade range.

When choosing a CC Cream, pay attention to the texture and finish. The best ones have a lightweight, silky texture that melts into the skin, providing a natural-looking, satin finish.” – Dr. Ethan Mitchell, Cosmetic Dermatologist

We conducted in-depth evaluations of numerous products, examining their ingredient lists, customer reviews, and expert recommendations.

Next, we test and assess each CC cream’s performance in terms of coverage, color correction, and overall finish. We also pay close attention to their hydrating properties, longevity, and suitability for different skin types. Additionally, we took into account the availability of shades to cater to various skin tones.

By carefully scrutinizing these aspects, we curate a list of ranked CC creams that excel in providing a flawless complexion while addressing specific skin concerns.

Our selection process ensures that you can confidently choose a CC cream that suits your needs, whether you desire a natural, radiant look or a targeted correction for blemishes and discoloration.

FAQ’s

What we Conclude:

CC creams have become a popular choice for individuals seeking a multi-functional product that combines skincare benefits with color correction.

Their ability to hydrate, even out skin tone, and provide sun protection makes them a versatile option for daily use.

Among the various CC creams available, it is important to consider your preferences such as skin type, desired coverage, and finish.

We recommend you have careful consideration and then pick the CC cream that stands out as your top choice.