If you are on the lookout for that one makeup product that can completely transform your look, it’s foundation. If you use the foundation correctly, you get an even base for proper makeup application, and it helps the rest of the products blend easily into your skin. But, if you are new to makeup, it may be a little difficult to find the right shade of foundation. The right foundation shade should be almost invisible to your natural skin tone, no matter how much you apply, foundation should seamlessly blend into your skin.
Why Choosing the Right Foundation Shade Matters and When to Use It
Foundation is not used only for a full glam look, you can also use it daily for a natural, even complexion for a skin-like finish. The benefits of using the correct foundation shade go far beyond looks, it can make your skin appear healthier, balanced and enhance your features instead of masking them.
You may also notice that your skin tone changes with the changing season; your skin gets darker in summers and a little lighter in the winters which is completely normal. Many makeup artists also recommend to keep 2 different foundations, one for summer and one for winter and you can mix them for seasonal transitions.
There are 2 key factors in finding the right foundation shade for your skin tone, which is understanding your skin undertone and your skin type. Testing your foundation is also important to find the right foundation shade.
Understanding Your Skin Undertone
A skin undertone is that subtle color that lies beneath your skin. Your skin tone can easily change because of long sun exposure or the use of skincare products but the undertone stays the same.
There are three main undertones - Warm, Cool and Neutral. You can find your correct undertone using a few simple tests, like the vein test, jwellery test or white/off-white shirt test. If you want to read more about the undertone, read Find Your Correct Undertone with This Simple Guide.
Understanding Your Skin Type
The next important step is knowing your skin type because the texture and formula of your foundation matter as much as the correct foundation shade. There are 5 different types of skin type which are Oily, Dry, Combination, Sensitive and Normal Skin. The wrong formula, even in the perfect color which is not according to your skin type, can emphasize pores or cling to dry patches. When you understand your skin type, you can choose a foundation that complements your skin’s instead of fighting against it.
To get more knowledge on different types of skin type, read this blog to understand how your skin type affects your foundation choice.
Tips for Choosing the Right Foundation Shade
- Testing the Foundation Shade on Forearm
Usually people swatch foundation on their forearm rather than testing on their face. People do this normally to avoid any allergic reaction to the formula but this is not the right way to determine the correct foundation shade. Always swatch the foundation around your jawline and extend to the neck area to find a matching foundation shade. You can always do a patch test on your forearm and wait for some time before testing on your jawline.
- Not Checking the Undertone
Matching your foundation to your skin tone is not enough, you also have to determine your undertone while finding the perfect shade of foundation for yourself.
- Changes in Skin tone with Changing Seasons
With season changing and hormonal shifts, your skin tone changes. Other factors like sun exposure, humidity and tanning affect your skin color and texture. It is only smart to change your foundation or try mixing and matching with different shade.
- Let Your Foundation Set for Atleast 10 Minutes
After application, foundation can oxidize slightly. If you have time, wait for 5-10 minutes before making your final purchase.
- Try Out Testers
Most brands offer small packaging or sample packaging, which is sufficient for single use. Try out the matching foundation shade and see how well your skin is taking up the product.
- Mix and Match
If you are not able to find your correct foundation shade, even after trying so many different brands. You can always mix and match and create a shade for yourself.
- Online Foundation Shade Finder
With the advancement in technology, you can find many virtual shade finder online. The process is almost easy, upload a selfie or take a video, answer a few questions and you will find your right foundation shade. But these are not always reliable, do a swatch test along your jawline.
Colors Queen Range of Foundations
Selecting the right foundation formula depends on your skin type and the finish that you are looking for. Foundations at Colors Queen are available in different formulas for different ski needs like liquid, cream, powder and stick and the finish also varies with the formulas.
If you have oily skin, use Ultra Definition Liquid Foundation for a shine-free look and a perfect matte finish. For people with dry skin, a lightweight yet hydrating formula is needed to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. The Mask Fit Cushion Foundation offers a lightweight formula and is available in 5 shades. If you prefer a liquid foundation that feels light on the skin and gives a radiant, glowy appearance, go for the Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation.
FAQs
Q1. How to select a foundation shade?
To check the foundation shade correctly, swatch it around your jawline and neck area and blend properly to find your correct shade.
Q2. Can my skin tone change with seasons?
Yes, your skin tone may change with changing seasons. During summers because of long hours of sun, your skin might get tanned and a little lighter in winters.
Q3. How do I find my correct undertone?
There are 3 different types of undertone - Warm, Cool and Neutral. You can check your undertone with an easy test, which is the vein test.
- If your veins appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone.
- If your veins appear green, you have a warm undertone.
- If your veins appear both green and purple, you have a neutral undertone.
