How to Choose Foundation Shade – The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Perfect Skin Tone Match

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Have you ever found yourself in the aisle of a makeup store with various foundation shades smeared on the back of your hand? I know I’m not the only one. 

Finding the perfect shade can help you save money and time. It’s one of those things that can really make or break your makeup routine – trust me.

The perfect foundation shade can be difficult to nail down depending on what lighting you’re under; however, with the right tips and guidance, it’ll be life-changingly easy.

A lot of people struggle with finding the right shade, whether it’s due to the wrong undertone, oxidation, or even a type of foundation formula.

Photo by Isabella Dandoy

In this article, I’ll set you up for success on how to choose foundation shades!

We’ll be going over a couple of sections:

• Understanding Skin Tone and Undertone
• Prepping to Find the Right Foundation Shade
• Methods to Choose the Right Foundation Shade
• Tools and Techniques to Make the Process Easier
• Choosing the Right Formula and Finish
• Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Foundation Shade
• Adjusting and Correcting a Foundation That’s Not Perfect
• Tips for Applying Foundation for a Natural Look

Are you excited? Let’s get right into some helpful tips!

Understanding Skin Tone and Undertone

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Let’s start with something that I’m sure a lot of us hear about: Skin tone shades.

You may be wondering: “Well, how do I know if I’m light, medium, or deep in foundation?”

Don’t feel overwhelmed! Let’s break it down together:

• Light skin: The appearance compared to the other two shades is the lightest. This skin shade tends to burn and tan slightly.

• Medium: The appearance compared to the other two shades places it land in-between those options. This skin shade tans easily but rarely burns. 

• Deep: The appearance compared to the other two shades makes it the richest in color. This skin shade never burns but tans with long-term sun exposure.

“Great, but I know that my skin changes with the seasons too.”

That’s a great statement, because as we know, the sun interacts with each skin shade differently.

The real answer is that because we have various amounts of sun exposure throughout the year, we most likely would have a couple of different shades of foundations that are readily available on our makeup stand.

For myself, I find that I am easily the palest in the winter and early springtime. However, I progressively get tanner at the end of spring to summer, and into fall. 

For me, this change in my appearance categorizes me as light-medium in foundation shades.

One important thing to note is that your foundation shade in one brand may not reflect the exact shade in a different brand.

The best way to find your foundation shade is to test it out on the crease of your neck, ask for help from your makeup store’s beauty guru, and understand your undertone.

“I hear the word undertone all the time, but what does that mean?”

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Undertone is a broad umbrella that covers mainly three main underlying colors that your skin tone may show more than others. To check for your undertone, look at the veins on your wrist for these color families.

• Warm: green and olive veins. 

• Cool: blue and purple veins. 

• Neutral: blue and green veins.

Another way to check is by looking at what jewelry complements your skin the best. 

Silver is best for cool tones, gold is perfect for warm tones, and if you can sport both, you may be a neutral tone girl!

Understanding your undertone helps you pick the right foundation shade that reflects the same undertone palette as your skin, or else your foundation won’t look seamless with your neck’s skin tone.

I also want to note that even before you try to find your best foundation shade, you must make sure that your skin is effortlessly prepped to have even coverage and the most amazing wear. 

Let me explain how you can do that in the next section!

Prepping to Find the Right Foundation Shade

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Proper skincare before makeup is vital for securing your foundation in place. 

Some of my favorite ways to ensure all-day fun and wear are to invest in a great face wash, toner, lotion, and sunscreen. I can say with certainty that a proper skincare regimen goes farther than you think!

When finding the right shade of foundation, remember to take into account the lighting in which you’re testing it.

When you’re in a yellow-lit room, the foundation color may not be true to your skin. 

For myself, I prefer to be in natural lighting or even blue-light lighting to ensure that my makeup is perfect.

“Where should I swatch to make sure the shade matches my face?”

While I don’t recommend applying testing products directly onto your face because of cross-contamination, I do have a couple of thrilling tips, so keep on scrolling!

Related: How To Easily Start Your Makeup Journey: Makeup for Beginners

Methods to Choose the Right Foundation Shade

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Swathing foundation shades in the right places helps you compare and contrast the product against your skin tone better. 

“I see people swatch it on the back of their hands all the time. Is that fine?”

While I won’t argue that this is a common method, I believe that switching the product on your jawline or neck region is a more accurate method.

This recommended area ensures that you capture a shadowed part of your facial region while still being able to see how the product performs on the most sunlit region – your face.

“I got my match on the first swatch. Should I buy it?”

I used to do this often until I went home and found that it was the wrong shade. It did make me feel a little bit hopeless, knowing that I didn’t get the color right off the bat.

“What do you mean? You followed all the steps, right?”

I did, however, there are other areas to consider before purchasing your foundation. 

Swathing foundation and then blending it into your skin is crucial. This helps you to see how a thin layer of it wears in comparison to your natural skin shade and undertone. 

Sometimes, products also oxidize, which is why I would recommend swatching them and waiting. Go around other aisles and then come back to see if the color changed because that can make your ‘perfect’ match ‘unperfect.’

Another thing to note is accommodation for seasonal shades. Not surprisingly, I tan in the summers and late springs often.

Instead of buying a shade that’s slightly darker while you’re still pale, wait until your skin turns darker and then come back to find that season’s perfect match. The same if you were in summer and were considering your winter shade.

“I see makeup gurus use apps to recommend foundation shades. Which tool is the best to find my perfect shade?”

Excellent question! Different tools used result in different finishing transformations so keep on reading!

Tools and Techniques to Make the Process Easier

Photo by Angela Nguyen

One of the most popular ways to shade match yourself in-store and online is through using shade finders. If you have a shade of foundation that you are currently using, you start by entering it into the website.

Next, it’ll ask you if you feel as if it’s your best shade or not. It’ll then verify what undertone you have and what foundation formulation you’re leaning towards to recommend scientifically similar products for you to try.

Sounds super handy when you’re in a pinch, right?

Another popular form to find your effortless shade is to use AI-powered foundation finders.

In simple terms, you take a photo of your skin in natural lighting, and the computer uses computer vision to analyze your undertone and skin tone to provide you with the best shades on the market.

If you’re still unsure or you want a second opinion on what your perfect shade might be, consult your makeup professional and brand representative in-store.

They’re there to help provide you with the best makeup for your concern, so don’t be shy!

If you’re scared of deciding between which foundation formula you want to try next, let me easily guide you through how to select the best formulation. Still interested? Keep reading and you’ll find out how to!

Related: What Does Facial Toner Do and Why Your Skin Needs It – The Ultimate Guide

Choosing the Right Formula and Finish

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Like any other makeup production, foundations come in various formulations. Some of the most popular are: matte, dewy, sheer.

“What’s the difference between each one?”

• Matte foundations: These formulations leave a non-shiny finish that is usually powdery to the touch. They are great options for oil control.

• Dewy foundations: These formulations leave a luminous and effortless finish on the skin. This option is great for those who want a plump and hydrated look. 

• Sheer foundations: These are the most lightweight formulations that are best for natural makeup. They are overly potent in coverage, shiny or matte. 

Note that with each foundation finish, the longevity of the product varies. 

For matte finishes, they tend to have the most long-lasting coverage throughout the day. 

For dewy foundations, they may sit pretty but need to be reapplied or retouched once or twice a day.  

Lastly, for sheer foundation – as the name implies – they tend to wear out the quickest because there’s not much product or color to start with.

Now for the moment we’ve all been waiting for, let’s get into my favorite recommendations for foundations!

Matte Finish

KVD Good Apple Non-Comedogenic Full-Coverage Serum Foundation

Photo by Angela Nguyen

This foundation was gifted to me by a dear friend of mine. She knew that I didn’t own many full-coverage natural foundations, so this product worked out perfectly for me. 

The ingredients in the product categorize it as a lightweight water-based serum, which proves to be true.

Staying true to its name, one of my favorite features about it is that it really feels like applying a serum, not a regular thick full coverage foundation, onto my skin, which is one of its best traits.

This foundation is a game-changer for long nights out when I don’t want my makeup to budge, as it keeps the finish consistently natural throughout the duration of the wear.

One thing that could be improved about this product is the color array.

I know that I’m lucky enough to match with one of its colors, but its products can run yellow, even if they’re labelled as pink undertones. 

To be transparent, I would not recommend this product to my extremely dry girls since its natural matte finish can cling to dry patches.

However, if you are an oil-to-oil-combination girl, this foundation is a great night-time out foundation if you need high coverage. 

For it being considered a luxury foundation, paying $24.50 on Amazon for this product is a fair price since it’s reflected in its longevity and coverage level.

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

Photo by Angela Nguyen

As a young high schooler who experimented with makeup, this product was one of the most beloved drugstore foundations that stayed true through the test of time.

The price point and wear are so good that I’ve been using it for over 8 years, if that tells you anything. 

This product has been one of the most unforgettable drug-store foundations for a reason since I used to wear this to spot control and as a full-face foundation for years.

It’s held me through my toughest battles of acne and really changed my life when it came to how my skin appeared on camera.

Outside of the main attractive points it has, I think one thing many other users and I can agree on is – the pump applicator can be swapped for a doe foot applicator.

I would say that if you’re looking for a natural coverage or light coverage foundation, this may not be what you’re looking for, as it sits on the side of full coverage foundations.

If you are looking for a matte and medium to full coverage foundation, this is something you may want to try if you haven’t yet.

It will make you look poreless – trust me. 

For being sold at a whopping $8.62 on Amazon, how can a foundation like this go wrong? If you’re looking for an accessible product that delivers, Maybelline Fit Me Foundation is a must-try!

Related: 12 Best Scents for Women: Must-Have Fragrances to Define Your Signature Style

Dewy Finish

Covergirl Clean Fresh Skin Milk Foundation

Photo by Angela Nguyen

While looking through the aisles at the drugstore, this foundation stuck out to me because of its clean ingredients list and promise for lightweight coverage.

I wanted something effortless that I could apply on that still gave me a fantastic glow finish. 

The ingredients are clean enough that my acne-prone skin doesn’t break out. It’s made without parabens, talc, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free – perfect for sensitive skin girls as well.

What I love most about this product is its ability to look natural and dewy throughout the day, especially when I want a minimal makeup look.

This product is a game changer for me since I like to have a quick application process for my bases for most of my days.

What I do wish could be improved upon would be its dispensing tip. The foundation is fine itself; however, the tip leaks often, and it has dripped onto numerous items of clothing of mine. 

For my girls who want a quick out-of-the-door makeup, this foundation is a must because of its lightweight and easy application process.

However, if you are looking for a full and or matte foundation, steer clear of this foundation.

Sitting at a price of $9.99 on Amazon, this is a great product for my effortless gals or those who are just starting out with makeup.

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Photo by Angela Nguyen

I first tested this foundation out when my friend used it on me. I fell in love with it because it felt like I was applying moisturizer onto my skin, which meant I had to buy my own soon afterwards.

Not only is this product cruelty-free, but this formulation combines the best of both worlds: skincare and makeup all in one bottle!

My favorite thing about this foundation is really the skincare part and how much coverage it provides for a tinted foundation.

I was happily surprised by its long-wear time and its dewy finish that didn’t enhance my naturally oily skin. 

However, if I had to improve one thing about this product, it would be the price tag. I do understand that this product has a lot of ingredients that are safer to use and are more beneficial; however, for some, this price tag may not be worthwhile for first-time makeup users.

With that said, I would not recommend this product to people who have oily skin who are looking for a high coverage foundation or those with a matte finish – this foundation provides the opposite effect!

I honestly believe that those of you who want to invest in quality products that are safe for your skin and for the environment, this may be it for you.

It’s great for those who want a light, dewy coverage throughout the day for all ages.

Standing tall at $48.00, this is an outstanding investment if you are looking to refine your makeup down to a few key products!

Sheer Finish

M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation 

Photo by Angela Nguyen

I was initially interested in this foundation because I saw that it was tax-free at the airport.

I’ve also heard that this product has been a long-standing favorite for professional makeup artists to use on the runway for a ‘no makeup’ makeup look, so I had to try it out to see.

The top ingredient in this formulation includes water, and it is free of parabens, which is a huge plus.

I really enjoy using this foundation when I’m in a quick pinch or I’m going somewhere like the beach.

Using my fingertips is really the most efficient way for me to apply my products, so this product is really life-changing.

If something can be improved, I would say that the color range could be expanded.

I am quite fair-light with pink undertones, and I feel as if their lightest shade ranges pull more neutral and warmer, even if it’s meant as a cool-tone shade.

I would ideally not recommend this product for girls who like a more natural or matte look, or for those who might lean towards porcelain shades in foundation.

However, I would recommend this product to others who are interested in a ‘no makeup’ makeup look because it goes undetected on the skin.

For being $36.24 on Amazon, I think this product is great because a little product goes a long way, especially for those who want to get by without looking like they applied any products.

“Ok, perfect. Is that all I need to know to pick my perfect shade?”

We’re almost there! Before you take your pick, let’s go over one last thing in this next section: mistakes to avoid when choosing a foundation shade!

Related: 7 Steps for The Perfect DIY Manicure You Can Totally Do at Home

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Foundation Shade

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Testing foundation in poor lighting conditions is one of the devastating causes why your foundation may not look the same at home while in stores. 

Like previously mentioned, the amount of lighting and the lighting color affect the way your foundation looks.

We want to aim for a foundation match in natural lighting because it’ll be the truest to our skin complexion. 

One of the other biggest mistakes to make while choosing foundation shades is to choose it by the color shown through the packaging bottle.

Some glass bottles are not made completely translucent or clear, which is why testing the actual product is the best way to ensure a perfect match.

Undertones and oxidation are key variables when it comes to picking the best foundation match as well.

Make sure that before you bring it home, ask a makeup professional or get a second opinion to prevent loss of time and money – I’ve made this mistake once too many times.

“Well, what happens if I’ve already purchased it? Should I return it?”

The simple answer is yes – you can. However, there are some methods to help tame the problem if the difference is subtle. 

Keep reading to find out my tricks on how to turn the wrong shade into the right shade!

Adjusting and Correcting a Foundation That’s Not Perfect

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Like many people, my luck with foundations didn’t happen overnight. I’ve purchased enough wrong shades before I found the best ones for myself. 

With that being said, I didn’t throw out all my shades either because I knew that they could be tailored to turn into my summer, winter or in-between seasonal shades. 

If you’re someone like me who also collects a variety of shades, purchasing a new foundation shade doesn’t have to mean an additional trip back to the makeup store.

This led me to my first tip on correcting foundation: mixing shades.

• Mixing shades: This process is done by combining two or more foundation shades to create the most skin-like shade for yourself. This will only work if the foundation mix is of two opposite shades and if both undertones are the same as yours.

My second biggest tip is color correcting if your foundation is the correct shade by the wrong undertone. 

• Cool undertones: If the foundation is too yellow, add true blue or purple.

• Warm undertones: If the foundation is too pink, add a hint of green.

• Neutral undertones: If your foundation is off, add a bit of blue.

Photo by Angela Nguyen

For my girls who don’t want to or don’t have other foundations to mix and match, I recommend leaning into your bronzers and contour shades.

This works well if your foundation shade is slightly paler than you are. 

For my girls who purchased a foundation slightly too tan, and you don’t want to match, try balancing it out with a lighter concealer on hand.

Unfortunately, we are not all color theorists, and there is only so much we can do. 

I would recommend that you return the product if the shade is two shades too dark or too light to work with, because it will take more effort to correct than to apply.

If you explain to them the problem, they can redirect you in the right direction for a better match. 

Don’t be devastated if the latter is the case because your perfect shade is just one step closer afterwards!

“Ok, so I got my foundation. Is there any process I should follow for a natural look?”

Why, of course there is! I have tried many different steps, but I have figured out the best process across all skin types and concerns.

Keep reading to know what my secrets are for an effortless canvas!

Tips for Applying Foundation for a Natural Look

Photo by Angela Nguyen

Primers are one of those life changing steps that you surely easily don’t want to miss in your makeup routine.

If you’ve ever painted anything before, you would know how important it is to prime your canvas before you lay down your colors!

The same train of thought is applied here. If your primer is not on, don’t expect your foundation to look or last long either!

If you’re new to primers, they are used to fill in pores and create a smooth canvas for your foundations to stick to.

If you plan on staying out all day and night, or you’re scared of sweating off your foundation, apply your primers to set and lock that foundation in!

“How about the tools I use? Don’t they all do the same thing?”

In a sense–yes. However, different formulations work well depending on user preference and foundation formulation. 

If you would like an even full coverage, such as through a matte foundation, opt for a brush.

It’s thought bristles will make sure all those pores are filled in with foundation. 

If you’re looking for a natural and dewy finish, I recommend using a makeup sponge because it’ll press your foundation on without looking overly matte or cakey.

Fingers are your built-in tools if you’re looking for a natural to dewy finish. The warmth from your fingertips will help your sheer foundation melt into your skin the best!

“What techniques should I try next for a flawless base?”

Depending on your tool, I have some recommendations that work powerfully for me.

Brushes: Stipple a light, gentle layer all across your face for the best coverage. Go in for a second layer if you need more coverage and don’t drag your brushes!

Sponges: Dab the product evenly on the back of your hand first before dabbing gently onto your face for even coverage. Don’t drag the sponge!

Fingertips: Make sure that your fingertips are all nice and clean before applying the product to your face. Start with minimal products and go in circular motions for liquid foundations. 

As a refresher, I’ll go through everything we’ve just learned once more in this last section before you can become your own expert at picking the best foundation shade for yourself!

Related: 8 Best Facial Cleansers for Oily Skin with Ingredients to Look For and Avoid

Final Thoughts

Photo by Angela Nguyen

When it comes to navigating how to choose foundation shades, it doesn’t have to be hard. The real trick is to know yourself inside out–quite literally in this sense.

The key points that really determine a quality foundation are the foundation’s undertone, shade, skin preparation, application process, and personal preferences in finish and coverage.

As a person who loves trying on new products, their first product may not always be the perfect match; however, you can always learn what tools are available to make your selection process a lot more efficient. 

Whether it’s through trying that new foundation shade machine in the shop or verifying with your makeup professional in-store, there are numerous ways to ensure that your choice is the choice that suits you the best!

Don’t be devastated if your first try isn’t the one – we all make mistakes and we learn from it. That’s the fun in it.

I encourage you, dear readers, that your makeup journey may be filled with hiccups and bumps, but that’s what makes the journey delightful. You get to learn more about yourself!

Now that you know how to choose foundation shades, explore your options and see where it takes you.

If you have any recommendations on tips for easily selecting the perfect foundation makeup, tools, or techniques, feel free to list them helpful tips down below!

Stay patient and persistent in your journey!

THAT’S A WRAP! THIS ARTICLE WAS ALL ABOUT HOW TO CHOOSE A FOUNDATION SHADE!

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Angela Nguyen

Angela Nguyen is a writer who has strong interests in perspectives about beauty, fashion trends, skincare, and wellness. When Nguyen is not writing, she enjoys using her leisure time to explore new cuisines, paint, and read. Her work has been featured in outlets such as La Voz News, Update News at San Jose State University, and GeekRockTV.