When it comes to creating a flawless base, both BB cream and foundation can work wonders — but they serve slightly different purposes. Whether you’re after a light everyday glow or a full-coverage look for a night out, understanding the difference between the two will help you choose the best product for your needs.
What Is BB Cream?
BB stands for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm.” BB creams are lightweight formulas that combine skincare and makeup benefits in one. They offer sheer to medium coverage while hydrating, brightening, and protecting the skin — often with added SPF.
They’re perfect for everyday wear when you want a natural, radiant look without the feeling of heavy makeup. Many BB creams also include antioxidants and moisturising ingredients, making them ideal for dry or sensitive skin types.
Try DB BB Cream SPF 25 — a multitasking base that hydrates, smooths, and protects with SPF 25 while evening out your complexion.
What Is Foundation?
Foundation is designed to create an even base by covering imperfections, redness, and uneven tone. It typically offers higher coverage than BB cream and comes in a variety of finishes — from matte to dewy — and formulations to suit different skin types.
If you want more control over your makeup look or need long-lasting wear, foundation is the go-to choice. You can layer it with concealer and powder for a flawless, camera-ready finish.
The Luminous Hydrating Foundation delivers buildable medium coverage with a radiant glow, ideal for those who prefer a luminous finish that still feels breathable.
Key Differences
Here’s how BB cream and foundation compare across the main categories:
Coverage
BB creams provide light, natural-looking coverage, while foundations range from light to full coverage depending on the formula.
Finish
BB creams tend to give a dewy or satin finish, great for fresh and glowing skin. Foundations can be matte, satin, or radiant, giving you more flexibility based on your desired look.
Skin Type
BB creams suit normal to dry or sensitive skin types, thanks to their hydrating and soothing formulas. Foundations come in options for every skin type — from oil-free matte formulas for oily skin to hydrating ones for dry skin.
Application
BB cream can be applied quickly with your fingers for a natural result. Foundation works best when applied with a brush, sponge, or fingers depending on the level of coverage you want.
When to Use Each
Use BB cream when you want a no-fuss, natural look for everyday wear, or when your skin needs hydration and SPF protection.
Choose foundation when you want a more polished, full-coverage look that lasts all day or night — perfect for events, nights out, or photoshoots.
For a light, glowing base, try the Radiant Glow Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15, which sits between BB cream and foundation for sheer, radiant coverage.
DB Recommendations for Each
- For everyday radiance: BB Cream SPF 25
- For a glow with skincare benefits: Radiant Glow Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15
- For full, luminous coverage: Luminous Hydrating Foundation
Discover your perfect base — explore our Foundation Collection or Shop All to find your new favourite finish.
