How to Pick Your Perfect Foundation
I do a lot of makeup lessons to help my clients find their perfect makeup products and the right way to apply them. Most times, they feel like their look isn't right because they have the wrong foundation. As we age, our skin needs change. This also applies throughout the different seasons of the year. The right foundation can honestly make or break your whole beauty routine. However, with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the key steps to picking your perfect foundation—from determining your undertone to understanding coverage and finish. By the end, you’ll feel confident shopping for your next makeup must-have.
Step 1: Determine Your Undertone
Your undertone is the natural hue that shines under your skin. It plays a big role in choosing a foundation that mimics your skin’s appearance. There are three main undertones to consider:
Neutral
A neutral undertone means your skin has a balance of warm and cool tones. You don’t lean too red or too yellow. Neutral undertones often work well with foundations labeled as "beige" or "neutral."
Warm
Warm undertones have golden, yellow, or peachy hues. If your skin has a natural warmth, look for foundations described as "golden," "yellow," or "warm beige."
Cool
Cool undertones have hints of pink, red, or bluish tones. Foundations labeled as "pink" or "cool" will complement your skin tone.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure of your undertone, try this test:
- Check your veins. If they appear green, you might have warm undertones. If they look blue or purple, you probably have cool undertones. If you can’t tell, you’re likely neutral.
- Think about which jewelry suits you best. Gold tones flatter warm undertones, while silver looks great on cool tones. If you wear both equally well, you have a neutral undertone.
Some brands provide specialized terms like "olive" (usually neutral) or expanded shade descriptions, which can be helpful when identifying your undertone.
Step 2: Find Your Depth of Color
The next step is identifying how fair or deep your skin tone is. Most brands group foundations into six main categories - Fair, Light, Medium, Tan, Dark and Deep.
Your skin tone might change from Winter to Summer depending on if you naturally tan so you might need two foundations for the year.
Pro Tip: Test shades on your jawline up to your cheek in natural light to find the closest match. The perfect shade will disappear into your skin without leaving a noticeable line. And sometimes we have to match different areas of our face - lighter in the center of the face and darker on the outside. In that case you can pick a color that's right in between.
Step 3: Choose Your Desired Coverage
Foundations vary in coverage, so it’s important to decide how much coverage you want before shopping. Here’s a breakdown of the three main levels:
Light Coverage
Light coverage is ideal for everyday wear. It offers a natural, sheer finish and allows your skin’s texture to peek through. Tinted moisturizers, skin tins and BB creams are great options for light coverage.
Medium Coverage
Medium coverage provides a little more concealment while still looking natural. It’s great for covering minor imperfections, redness, and uneven skin tone. Buildable liquid foundations often fall into this category.
Full Coverage
Full coverage creates a totally flawless look, hiding blemishes, discoloration, and scars. It’s perfect for special occasions like weddings or photo shoots. Look for creams, sticks, or highly pigmented liquid foundations for full coverage.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to foundation, start with medium coverage since it’s more versatile and can be built up or sheered out as needed.
Step 4: Pick the Right Finish for Your Skin Type
The finish of your foundation is just as important as the color and coverage. Finish refers to the way the product looks on your skin after application. Here are the three main types:
Glowy (or Dewy)
A glowy finish gives your skin a radiant, hydrated appearance. These foundations work well for dry or mature skin, as they add moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Matte
A matte finish provides a shine-free, velvety look. It’s great for oily or combination skin because it reduces excess shine throughout the day.
Natural
A natural finish mimics the texture of real skin—not too shiny, not too matte. It’s a versatile option that works for most skin types.
Pro Tip: Be mindful of your skin type when choosing a finish. For example:
- Oily skin types might prefer a matte or oil-free formula to control shine.
- Dry and mature skin types typically benefit from a glowy foundation to add a healthy, youthful glow.
When experimenting with finishes, don’t forget to prep your skin with the right primer. This can help your foundation stay put and complement its finish.
Step 5: Learn to Read Foundation Labels
Foundation labels can be overwhelming, but they often hold clues to help you make the best choice. Here’s how to decipher common terms:
- “Hydrating,” “Glowing,” or “Radiant” indicate a dewy finish suitable for dry or mature skin.
- “Matte,” “Oil-Free,” or “Longwear” point to a shine-free finish perfect for oily or combination skin.
- “Buildable” shows that the product offers flexible coverage, from sheer to full.
- “SPF” signifies built-in sun protection, though it shouldn’t replace your regular sunscreen.
Pro Tip: If you’re shopping in-store, ask for samples. Trying before you buy is the best way to see how a foundation feels and performs on your skin.
Bonus Tips for Flawless Application
- Always start with clean, moisturized skin. This creates a smooth base for your foundation.
- Use a sponge, brush, or clean fingers to blend evenly. Each tool gives a slightly different effect, so experiment to find your favorite. My personal favorite is the Anisa Pinnacle Foundation Brush - it blends in foundation flawlessly.
- Set your foundation with a light dusting of powder or a setting spray if you want to increase its longevity.
Remember, your perfect foundation should feel like a second skin. Take the time to find one that truly works for you, and don’t hesitate to switch things up based on your needs or preferences.
With these steps in mind, you’re ready to head to the makeup aisle with confidence! Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, everyday option or a stunning full-coverage look for special events, this guide has you covered.
Want hands-on help picking the perfect foundation? Book a makeup consultation with me through www.renelynthomas.com I offer customized makeup shopping sessions and one on one makeup lessons in Atlanta. Happy foundation hunting!
FTC Disclosure: Post not sponsored. Amazon affiliate links included where I receive a small commission to help support this channel.
