The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?
The latest launch promises a buildable, water-light texture that gives a radiant finish, but did it win us over?
As a beauty journalist, I’ve tried many, many foundations, from eye-watering expensive formulas to brilliant budget buys.
I’m a fussy reviewer too, as I’ve always had hormonal acne on my chin, an oily, blackhead-prone T-zone and dry cheeks.
When on the hunt for the perfect base product, I look for something that will cover blemishes without looking cakey. I don’t want it to weigh down my skin or make breakouts worse, and most importantly, I want it to last all day.
For years as a teenager and young adult, once I’d switched from religiously slathering on Maybelline’s dream matte mouse, I always gravitated towards the full coverage, 24-hour wear matte formulas that were thick and heavy.
That was until I tried the IT Cosmetics your skin but better CC+ cream original SPF 50+, a cult favourite among fellow beauty writers.
Typically I always steered away from any product claiming to give a dewy finish, as when you’re oily, the last thing you want is even more shine, so I approached the lightweight texture with some scepticism and emerged with a new hero product.
Having had a permanent position in my make-up bag since 2017, when I saw the brand was launching a new foundation, I had to put it to the test. Putting them side by side, I’ve compared the two to see if the brand’s latest offering is worth switching to, or whether it’s best to stick to my all-time favourite CC cream.
Testing them on staying power, ease of application, finish, texture, buildability and shade range, this is my honest review.
You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections. This revenue helps us to fund journalism across The Independent.
While both make a brilliant case, the original CC cream, as much as I love it dearly, is pipped to the number one spot by the newest foundation launch. The shade range of 40 colours is undeniably more accessible and picking a shade using the tool on its website is a breeze to use. It’s smoothing, brightening and still feels natural, ideal for those who don’t like a thicker, heavier texture but still want the coverage.
For more on the best make-up buys, read our review on the newly launched Nikkie Tutorials x Beauty Bay eyeshadow palette