Can you believe it’s only been a year, since the BB Cream craze kicked off in North America? For those of you who are unfamiliar, BB (Beauty Balm) Creams originated in Germany before trending all over Asia and then making their way West. With many of us crediting our “flawless complexions” to these multi-purpose wonder creams, it not surprising that their doesn’t seem to be a company out there that hasn’t hitched a ride on the BB bandwagon. BB creams are great for people who don’t need a lot of coverage or are looking for a lightweight product that combines a moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunscreen (in some cases). Some of my favourite BB creams are by Marcelle and Annabelle. I’m currently trying out the Revlon Photoready BB Cream Skin Perfector and Maybelline’s Dream Fresh BB 8-in-1 Beauty Balm and should have an update on both of those soon.

Another hot trend coming out of Asia are CC Creams. Annabelle has come out with some great new products recently and among their most noteworthy is their CC (colour control) lineup which includes a pressed powder and two instant perfecting bases, in various finishes. CC cream, which stands for “colour control” or “colour corrector” is basically a foundation primer that brightens skin tone, while fighting the signs of aging.  CC creams do EVERYTHING a good BB cream can do with the added benefits of corrective ingredients to help even out and brighten your skin tone. It is also important to note that with CC creams, you will get more coverage and a more lightweight formula.

Instant Perfecting Bases by Annabelle:

> Neutralize redness, dull and uneven complexions
> Reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines
> Leave behind a flawless anti-shine finish
> Prime skin for make-up and improves foundation wear
> Suitable for all skin tones
> Lightweight & non-sticky texture

The multi-tasking perfecting bases are oil-free, paraben and perfume-free, hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested.

Annabelle CC (Colour Control) Instant Perfecting Base & Pressed Powder

Annabelle CC Cream – Luminous Finish – $16.95 CDN / 30ml

Annabelle CC Cream – Natural Finish – $16.95 CDN / 30ml

Pro Tip: To achieve a flawless, natural complexion, apply the Instant Perfecting Base – Natural Finish on a clean and hydrated face. Wear alone for a natural look or as a makeup base under foundation, concealer, pressed or bronzing powder. 

Annabelle CC Creams L to R: Luminous Finish & Natural Finish

Annabelle CC Creams  Swatch L to R: Luminous Finish & Natural Finish

In addition to the Perfecting Bases above, Annabelle’s Colour Control Pressed Powder also neutralizes redness and leaves a flawless anti-shine finish to the skin. This silky, ultra-fine powder is meant to be used over top of your primer and foundation to set your makeup. You can also use this product to control oil or shine throughout the day.

Annabelle CC Pressed Powder – $16.95 CDN  Available in Light/Medium and Medium/Dark

Annabelle CC Pressed Powder in Medium/Dark

Annabelle CC Pressed Powder – Packaging (Compact/Mirror/Brush)

While the CC cream phase is still in its infancy, Olay, Juice Beauty and even Hard Candy have already launched their own versions. I noticed that even L’Oreal Paris has a CC cream range available in the UK, which I can’t wait to get my hands on! If the BB craze was any indication, other companies won’t be far behind them in creating their own CC Cream.