When it comes to foundation there are a few steps to finding your perfect match.
The key to the prefect foundation is to match to your actual colouring, not the colour you wish you were! As the 'no makeup' makeup look comes around again there couldn't possibly be a better time to refresh your foundation.
BTW over the last couple of weeks we've been talking all things foundation so don't forget to check out our recent posts about Coverage and Finish.
Step 3 - Match your colour
We wear foundation to cover surface tones and create a naturally flawless coverage of our natural undertone. So when choosing the perfect colour for you, start by looking at foundations within your undertone. If you need some help figuring it out brush up here.
The next step is to make sure that the foundation is the same level of lightness or darkness of your skin - this level is called 'value' in colour theory. This can change seasonally so its always a good idea to have a summer and winter foundation that you can mix when you're not quite fitting either of them.
Therefore your perfect foundation will be your undertone + value.
Placement
Pick out which foundation you think is the best fit and test the colour by applying a stripe of it on your chin and cheek area comparing down to your neck and chest. If you aren't sure you can also add the foundation to your chest to make sure it matches.
PRO TIP: If your face is ruddy or red, use a green primer or corrector first to make sure you're starting with your correct undertone and not focussing on the redness on the surface.
Lighting
Try to make sure you're in the most natural light possible when colour matching. Department store fluorescents are quite detrimental to this whole process. Always ask if you can go and have a look at the colour against your skin tone outside.
Troubleshoot
Test out a few colours if needed. Try squinting into the mirror to create the illusion of distance. Your correct colour will disappear into your skin, whereas anything thats not working will stand out.
If you think the colour isn't quite right, think about why. Too light? Too dark? Wrong undertone?
And always remember, its ok to ask for help. Most retail staff have been well trained in their brands products. They know which one is going to give you a slightly warmer colour or be two shaders lighter etc.
The Holy Grail Foundation Problem
My personal pet peeve as a makeup artist is when I see someone with the wrong foundation colour. It's the quickest way to make you look tired, dull, older, sick or just plain wrong! But once you've found your holy grail foundation, what do you do when it is out of stock, get discontinued or maybe your skin changes?
These websites are an absolute saviour! They allow you to run a search on your favourite foundation and tell you what shades from other brands will be a similar fit for you. They are also perfect for when you have the perfect thing but what to try a different coverage, finish or formula
So what's your holy grail foundation?
I myself can't go past anything by Make Up For Ever - they have something perfect no matter my mood, the occasion or how my skin is doing!
xx FemFox