IT Cosmetics
IT Cosmetics was founded in 2008 by Jamie Kern Lima, a former TV news anchor who struggled with rosacea and hyperpigmentation and could not find makeup that adequately covered her skin concerns while still looking natural. 'IT' stands for 'Innovative Technology,' and the brand was developed in collaboration with plastic surgeons and dermatologists to create makeup that performs like skincare. The CC+ Cream became IT Cosmetics' breakout product, combining color-correcting coverage with SPF 50 and anti-aging skincare ingredients. Lima's QVC appearances, where she famously removed her makeup on air to show her bare skin, helped build an authentic connection with consumers. L'Oreal acquired IT Cosmetics in 2016 for $1.2 billion.
Brand Philosophy
IT Cosmetics creates makeup co-developed with doctors that solves real skin problems. Every product combines cosmetic performance with clinically-tested skincare ingredients, so makeup improves skin over time rather than just covering it. The brand celebrates real skin conditions rather than airbrushing them away, built on the founder's own experience with visible skin concerns.
Anyone seeking makeup that doubles as skincare, especially those with rosacea, hyperpigmentation, or other visible skin concerns who want full coverage that looks natural and improves skin over time.
- CC+ Cream -- color-correcting coverage with SPF 50
- Co-developed with plastic surgeons and dermatologists
- Founder famously removed makeup on QVC to show real skin
- Confidence in a Cream moisturizer
- Acquired by L'Oreal for $1.2 billion
- Niacinamide
- Squalane
- Peptide-Lipid Complex
- Ceramide Complex
- Hyaluronic Acid
IT Cosmetics at a Glance
Strongest Categories
IT Cosmetics performs best in: Eye Care (1 product, avg 80/100); Moisturizer (1 product, avg 79/100).
Best Conditions Served
Across all products, IT Cosmetics scores highest for: Dry/Dehydrated Skin (avg 88/100); Aging/Mature Skin (avg 88/100); Dull/Uneven Texture (avg 82/100). If your primary concern is one of these conditions, IT Cosmetics products are particularly worth considering.
Certifications
Common certifications include Vegan, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free, Mineral Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Suitable for Sensitive Skin (claimed).
Best IT Cosmetics by Skin Condition
The highest-scoring IT Cosmetics product for each condition we evaluate.