How to Find the Right Foundation Shade

It's all about the base, isn't it? One of the secrets to having the perfect makeup look is having the perfect base. Much like many things in life, having a solid foundation is crucial, and this holds true for your makeup foundation as well. Finding your perfect foundation match is challenging, but not impossible, and we've got Anupma Katyal, National Creative Director - Makeup, Lakmé Salon, to give you some tips and tricks to help you find the right one.

Types of Foundation Shades

Choosing the right foundation shade is crucial for a flawless complexion. A well-matched foundation can even out skin tone, conceal imperfections, and create a natural-looking base for your makeup. When you wish to know how to find foundation shade perfectly, here are some common types of foundation shades you will come across:

Fair: This foundation shade is characterized by pale skin with a neutral or pink undertone. It is often described as porcelain, alabaster, or ivory.

Light: This shade tends to be slightly darker than fair, with a neutral or pink undertone. It is often described as cream, beige, or buff.

Medium: This foundation shade is a balanced mix of light & dark shades featuring an olive or neutral undertone. It is usually described as caramel, tan, or honey.

Tan: This shade tends to be darker than medium, with an olive or golden undertone. It is often described as mocha, copper, or bronze.

Dark: This foundation is the darkest of all. It features a deep undertone. It is usually described as ebony, chocolate, or deep bronze.

Understanding Your Skin Tone and Undertone

The first step to choosing the foundation shade perfect for you is to identify your skin undertone. Do a wrist test to determine this. If your veins are blue or purple, then your undertone is cool. If they appear green, then you are warm toned. And if you are unable to identify the colour, you are neutral toned. Once you know your undertone it is easier to select the right shade.

Undertones serve as the underlying colour of your skin, which can be olive, pink, or yellow. When you wish to understand about how to choose the perfect foundation, it is crucial to be aware of your skin undertone.

Olive Undertones: Search for foundations with an olive or neutral undertone.

Pink Undertones: Search for foundations with a rosy or cool undertone.

Yellow Undertones: Search for foundations with a golden or warm undertone.

To identify your skin tone and the best foundation for combination skin, here are some tips:

Check the Veins: In natural light, check your veins. If they appear purple or blue, you have a cool undertone. On the other hand, if they appear green, you have a warm undertone.

Analyse Your Skin in Natural Light: Under the effect of natural light, stand in front of a mirror and evaluate your skin. Does it appear rosy or pink? This determines a cool undertone. On the other hand, if your skin appears golden or yellow, it suggests a warm undertone.

Try Foundation Shades: When you are searching for the best foundation for combination skin, it is crucial to try different shades beforehand. Search for the shade that blends seamlessly into your skin while not appearing too dark or too light.

How to Find the Foundation That Suits You

For those new to the world of makeup, finding the best foundation for combination skin can appear overwhelming. The right foundation can even out the skin tone while concealing imperfections and creating a natural-looking base for your makeup. Here are some additional tips:

1. The cheek test

The best way to test if a foundation is a match is by testing it on your cheek and/or jawline. If the shade blends in easily with your skin in both these areas, you know it's the right one. And if you're stuck between two shades, ideally go for the slightly lighter one. Deepening foundation with the help of bronzer is easier than lightening one that is darker than your tone.

2. The type of foundation to choose

Depending on your skin type, you have an array of foundations to choose from. If you have oily skin, a matte or powder-based foundation is a good choice, like the Lakmé 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Foundation Compact. Those with dry skin, on the other hand, are better off with liquid or mousse foundation, such as the Lakmé 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Foundation or the Lakmé Absolute Skin Natural Mousse foundation. Depending on the finish you're looking for, you can opt for a buildable or full-coverage foundation as well.

Lakmé Absolute Skin Natural Mousse

3. Test Different Foundation Shades

Once you are aware of your skin tone, you can try different foundation shades in natural light. Initially, apply a small amount of the product to the jawline while blending it in. Search for the shade that blends naturally into your skin tone without looking too dark or too light.

In case you are not able to find the perfect match, you can also consider mixing two shades to create the perfect shade.

4. Consider the Desired Coverage

The level of coverage will depend on your skin-related concerns.

Full coverage: It can be used for covering severe imperfections while evening out skin tone.

Medium Coverage: This helps in concealing uneven skin tone and blemishes.

Sheer Coverage: It helps you achieve a natural look throughout.

Foundation for Different Skin Types

The skin type also plays a vital role in choosing the right foundation.

Dry Skin: Choose hydrating foundations, like Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Foundation, featuring a moisturising formula to keep your skin hydrated and glowing throughout.

Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Foundation,

Oily Skin: Choose oil-free or matte foundations to minimise shine. For instance, Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Perfect Cover Foundation is ideal for those with oily skin.

Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Perfect Cover Foundation

Combination Skin: You can search for the best foundation for combination skin to balance oil and deliver hydration at the same time. For instance, Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Powder Foundation Compact is your ideal choice in this case.

Conclusion

Foundation is a crucial step in your makeup routine, so we understand how important it is to get it right. But with these tips, we've got you covered and hope to see those makeup looks soon! By understanding your skin undertones, testing different shades, and considering your skin type and desired coverage, you can find a foundation that enhances your natural beauty and creates a flawless complexion. With a little experimentation, you'll be able to achieve a radiant and confident look.

FAQs

1. What is the best shade of foundation?

The best shade of foundation is the one that matches your skin tone perfectly. It should blend seamlessly into your skin without appearing too light or too dark. To determine your ideal shade, consider your skin undertones, test different options, and factor in your skin type and desired coverage.

2. How do I know my foundation shade?

To determine your foundation shade, consider your skin undertone, skin tone, and test different shades on your jawline in natural light. Consulting a makeup professional can also provide valuable guidance. By carefully considering these factors, you can find a foundation that complements your natural beauty and creates a flawless complexion.

3. What are the different shades of foundation?

Foundation shades vary widely, but common categories include fair, light, medium, tan, and dark. Within each category, there are numerous shades to choose from, ranging from porcelain to ebony. It's important to find a foundation shade that matches your skin tone and undertone for a natural-looking finish.

4. Can I mix foundation shades to get the perfect match?

Yes, you can mix foundation shades to get the perfect match. If you can't find a shade that exactly matches your skin tone, you can often blend two or more shades together to create the desired color. This is especially helpful if your skin tone varies in different areas of your face.