How To Find The Right Foundation Shade For Your Skin

The perfect foundation shade is the secret to creating flawless makeup looks. But finding the right shade can seem like a task. Whether in-store or online - multiple shades, formulas and coverage aspects can leave you puzzled. Not sure how to select a makeup foundation shade that helps you look flawless? Well, the Lancôme experts have decoded some easy ways to solve the dilemma of how to pick a foundation shade for yourself. Read on to know more!

Tips On How To Find The Right Foundation Shade

1. Take A Closer Look At Your Skin Tone

Knowing how to select foundation shade requires a clear understanding of your skin tone. It refers to your natural complexion which could be light, medium, deep, or fair. If your skin tone is uneven, using the colour of your jawline as a reference point can help you determine the perfect foundation match.

2. Identify Your Undertone

Your foundation colour should match your undertone. Undertone is the colour that appears underneath your skin which is categorised as warm, cool, or neutral. Even though your skin tone might differ, the undertone remains the same. There are two ways to check your undertone.

First, look at your veins in natural light

• If your veins appear blue or purplish, you have cool undertones
• If your veins appear green olive, then you have warm undertones
• If your veins match the colour of your skin, then you have neutral undertones

Another way to find out your undertones is by checking which metallic colour, gold, or silver, suits your skin.

• Silver - This colour flatters skin with cool undertones
• Gold - This colour flatters skin with warm undertones

If both colours look beautiful on you, then count yourself in the neutral undertone club.

3. Understand Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is crucial, not for selecting the perfect foundation shade but for selecting the perfect formula. Dry skin may benefit from hydrating formulas, while oily skin might require oil-free foundation or matte options. Combination skin may need a balance of hydration and oil control. Moreover, sensitive skin may require fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas. By knowing your skin type—whether dry, oily, combination, or sensitive—you can choose a foundation that complements your skin's needs, ensuring a flawless finish and comfortable wear.

4. Know The Coverage Level You Need

Identifying the coverage level you desire is essential for selecting the right foundation shade. For those seeking sheer coverage, opt for lightweight formulas that allow your natural skin to shine through. Medium coverage foundations offer a balance, concealing minor imperfections while still maintaining a natural look. A full coverage foundation provides maximum opacity, perfect for covering blemishes and discolourations. Understanding your preferences will help you choose a foundation that suits your desired level of coverage for a flawless complexion.

5. Try Foundation Shade Virtually

Not sure how to select foundation shade online? Selecting the perfect foundation shade online is now simple with the Lancôme Virtual Try-On tool. Begin by uploading a clear, well-lit photo of yourself or use your device's camera to capture a live image. Next, explore the range of shades available, considering your skin tone and undertones. Apply different shades virtually to see how they complement your complexion in various lighting conditions. Finally, once confident, grab your favourite shade right away, knowing you've chosen the perfect foundation shade with Lancôme's innovative technology.

6. Swatch Foundations

If you’re buying foundation offline, swatch the product before finalising it. To do so, apply a small amount of foundation to your jawline or inner wrist to test how well it blends with your skin tone. This allows you to assess the colour match and undertones against your natural complexion. It also helps you understand the texture and consistency of the foundation, ensuring it meets your preferences.

7. Check In Natural Light

To accurately determine your foundation shade, always check it in natural light. Artificial lighting can distort colours, making it challenging for you to find the right match. Step outside or stand near a window to evaluate how the foundation looks on your skin under natural sunlight. Natural light provides the most accurate representation of how the shade will appear in various settings. This ensures that you select a foundation shade that seamlessly blends with your skin tone.

8. Adapt To The Current Seasons

Adapting your foundation shade to the current season is essential for maintaining a natural look. As your skin tone may vary with changing sunlight exposure, adjust your foundation shade accordingly. In the winter months, when your skin tends to be lighter, opt for a slightly lighter foundation shade. On the other hand, in summer, when your skin is likely to get tanned, choose a slightly deeper shade. This ensures your foundation matches your current skin tone year-round, providing a seamless and flattering finish.

Now that you know how to pick a foundation shade, what are you waiting for? Browse through a wide range of Lancôme makeup products, buy your favourite foundation shade, and get a 10% off on your first purchase and complimentary samples with your order. So, get going right away!