IT Cosmetics CC Cream is a fan-favorite complexion product known for its full coverage, skincare benefits, and high SPF protection. Available in multiple finishes—Original, Oil-Free Matte, and Illumination—it’s loved by makeup minimalists and full-glam lovers alike. But with dozens of shades and undertones now available, finding the perfect CC Cream match can be tricky. This guide will help you understand IT Cosmetics’ shade system, undertones, and tips for choosing the right one for your skin tone.
Understanding the IT Cosmetics CC Cream Range
Three Finish Options
Before choosing your shade, consider the finish that best suits your skin type and preferences:
- Original CC+ Cream: Natural finish, suitable for all skin types
- CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte: Shine control for oily and acne-prone skin
- CC+ Cream Illumination: Radiant finish with subtle glow for dry or mature skin
Each finish offers nearly the same shade names but may look slightly different depending on the formula.
Shade Categories
IT Cosmetics categorizes their shades by tone depth (fair to deep) and undertone (cool, neutral, or warm). Here’s how the system is typically broken down:
| Skin Tone | Undertone Options | Common Shade Names |
|---|---|---|
| Fair | Cool, Neutral, Warm | Fair, Fair Light |
| Light | Cool, Neutral, Warm | Light, Light Medium |
| Medium | Cool, Neutral, Warm | Medium, Neutral Medium |
| Tan | Warm, Neutral | Tan, Rich Honey |
| Deep | Warm, Neutral | Rich, Deep |
How to Determine Your Undertone
Choosing the correct undertone is just as important as depth. Here’s a quick guide:
- Cool undertones: You have pink, red, or blue hues in your skin. Veins look blue/purple. Silver jewelry suits you best.
- Warm undertones: You have golden, peachy, or yellow hues. Veins look green. Gold jewelry suits you best.
- Neutral undertones: You see a mix of warm and cool tones. Both gold and silver look good on you.
Popular IT Cosmetics CC Cream Shades Explained
Here are some of the most popular shades across skin tones and their undertone descriptions:
- Fair – Very light with neutral to pink undertones
- Fair Light – Slightly warmer than Fair, with neutral undertones
- Light – For light skin with neutral to warm undertones
- Light Medium – For light to medium skin with golden undertones
- Medium – Best-selling shade; suits many with neutral undertones
- Neutral Medium – Slightly warmer than Medium; great for olive tones
- Tan – For medium-tan skin with warm, golden undertones
- Rich Honey – For deep-tan skin with warm undertones
- Rich – For deep skin with cool to neutral undertones
- Deep – For very deep skin with warm undertones
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Match
1. Swatch Three Shades
If possible, swatch three shades: one you think is your match, one slightly lighter, and one slightly darker. Apply to the jawline and blend. The right shade should disappear into your skin.
2. Let It Set
Wait 5–10 minutes to see how the shade oxidizes (slightly deepens) and blends with your natural oils.
3. Match to Your Neck and Chest
Since your face may be more sun-exposed, match your CC Cream to the tone of your neck and chest for seamless blending.
4. Use the IT Cosmetics Virtual Try-On Tool
The official IT Cosmetics website offers a virtual try-on tool and shade finder quiz to help narrow your options based on your current foundation and skin tone.
5. Consider Seasonal Changes
You might need a lighter shade for winter and a deeper one for summer. Many users mix two shades to adjust year-round.
Still Not Sure? Try These Shade Comparisons
If you wear popular foundation brands, here’s a rough match to help guide your CC Cream pick:
- MAC NC15 → Fair Light
- Fenty 210 → Light Medium
- NARS Punjab (Medium 1) → Medium
- Maybelline Fit Me 220 → Tan
- Lancome Teint Idole 450 → Rich
- Estee Lauder 6W2 → Deep
(Note: Always test if possible—shades vary between brands.)
Final Thoughts
Finding your perfect IT Cosmetics CC Cream shade is all about understanding your skin’s depth and undertone, testing thoughtfully, and being open to adjusting seasonally. With an ever-expanding shade range and multiple finish options, there’s a perfect match out there for everyone.
Whether you’re new to CC creams or a longtime fan looking to refine your shade, this guide is your go-to reference for achieving flawless, skin-loving coverage—every single day.