When it comes to makeup, finding the perfect foundation shade can feel like a daunting task. With so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? The key lies in understanding your skin's undertone and testing the foundation properly. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best foundation colour for your skin.
Understanding Undertones
Before we dive into choosing the perfect foundation shade, it's essential to understand skin undertones. Your undertone is the subtle hue underneath the surface of your skin, and it plays a crucial role in determining which foundation shade will look most natural on you. There are three primary undertones: warm, cool, and neutral.
Warm Undertones: These have a yellow, golden, or peachy hue. People with warm undertones often tan easily and are slow to sunburn.
Cool Undertones: These have a pink, red, or bluish hue. People with cool undertones may burn before tanning and need to be more careful in the sun.
Neutral Undertones: These have a mix of both warm and cool hues. If you can't quite tell if you're a warm or cool undertaone, you likely have neutral undertones.
How to Determine Your Undertone
Determining your undertone is a crucial first step in choosing the right foundation shade. Here are some simple methods to help you identify your undertone:
Vein Test: Check the colour of your veins on the inside of your wrist. Green veins suggest warm undertones, while blue or purple veins indicate cool undertones. If you see a mix of both, you likely have neutral undertones.
Jewellery Test: Try on some gold and silver jewelry. Notice which metal makes your skin glow. Gold typically complements warm undertones, while silver flatters cool undertones. If both look good, you probably have neutral undertones.
White Paper Test: Hold a piece of white paper up to your face in natural light. If your skin appears more yellow, you have warm undertones. If it looks more pink, you have cool undertones. If you can't tell, you likely have neutral undertones.
Testing the Foundation
Once you've identified your undertone, it's time to test foundation shades. The best way to find your perfect match is by applying a stripe of foundation from your cheek, over your jawline, and onto your neck. You're aiming to find a foundation colour that blends seamlessly with your skin tone and appears almost invisible. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Choose a Few Shades: Select a few foundation shades that seem to match your undertone and skin tone. It's helpful to choose one shade lighter and one shade darker than what you think you need.
Apply Stripes: Apply a stripe of each foundation shade from your cheek, over your jawline, and onto your neck. This area gives you the best indication of how well the foundation matches your overall skin tone. Do not test colours on the back of your hand - it won't be accurate.
Blend and Observe: Blend each stripe slightly and observe which one disappears into your skin. The right shade will be almost invisible, blending perfectly into your skin. It's a good idea to wait 5 minutes or so after applying the foundation, as the natural oils in your skin can affect the final colour slightly.
Check in Natural Light: This is the one most makeup shoppers get wrong! Lighting in cosmetic stores is often artificial and can be misleading. Ask the salesperson if you can step outside to check the foundation in natural light. They may not like you doing this, as their goal is usually to make a sale on the spot. Be firm, and assure your salesperson if you are satisfied you will come back and purchase the product, and if dissatisfied you will come back to try an alternative shade. Use a hand mirror to see how the foundation looks in natural daylight.
Matching to Your Decolletage
It's important to note that the skin underneath your chin can be lighter due to less sun exposure. To ensure a more accurate match, compare the foundation shade to your lower neck and decolletage (the area of your chest exposed when wearing a low neckline). This ensures that your face and neck match your chest, creating a harmonious colour.
Seasonal Shade Adjustments
Your skin tone can change with the seasons. You might be more tanned in the summer and lighter in the winter. To accommodate these changes, consider having two foundation shades: one shade up from your perfect colour for summer and one shade lighter for winter. You can also mix the two shades to create a custom blend that matches your skin tone perfectly all year-round.
How to Choose Your Perfect Foundation Colour: Additional Tips
Sample Sizes: Ask for sample sizes of foundations if possible. This allows you to test the foundation over a few days and in different lighting conditions.
Ask a Friend: Grab your bestie and ask their opinion on how the colour looks both indoors and outdoors. After all, what are friends for?
Foundation Formula: Different foundation formulas can affect how the shade looks on your skin. For more information on choosing the best foundation formula for your skin type, check out our blog post on foundation formulas.
Consider Your Skin Type: Make sure to choose a foundation formula that suits your skin type. You can learn more about how to identify your skin type in our recent blog.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect foundation shade doesn't have to be overwhelming. By understanding your undertone, testing foundation shades properly, and considering seasonal changes, you can find a foundation that matches your skin flawlessly. Remember, the right foundation should blend seamlessly, look natural in all lighting, and enhance your complexion.
Happy foundation hunting!
For more makeup tips and tricks, don't forget to explore our foundation formulas blog and other resources on our website.
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