We've all been there. We graduate from orange Pan Stik foundation and make the move to upgrade to something sophisticated and classy. Something that doesn't make our heads look like Dr. Frankenstein put them on a different coloured body.
But, as we all well know, finding the perfect shade of foundation is one of the most challenging things to do in makeup. With artificial lighting in department stores, among other difficulties, how do you find the one that’s right for you?
The first thing to realise is that foundation is not designed to change the colour of your face; it is a product we use to even out skin tone. Therefore, it should match your skin to perfection. Easier. Said. Than. Done.
Luckily, for you, we've got the top tips that will help you to choose your perfect.
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- Don't wear any makeup on your skin on the day of your foundation quest. Bring along a pocket-sized mirror
- Choose three shades of foundation that seem in and around your skin tone
- Swatch all three shades on your jawline or chest using your finger. DO NOT use your hand or arm; the skin tone is different on your face, and it is not a substitute. You will simply end up with the wrong shade.
- Walk outside to the daylight and use your mirror to check all three colours. The one that disappears into your skin in the one you want.
- Ask the sales assistant for a sample of your chosen colour. It’s important to wear your foundation of choice for a day, to see how it works with your skin oils. Foundations can oxidise with oils and the environment which leads the colour to change on the skin.
- If he/she won’t give you a sample, have them apply a full face of your chosen colour on you, so you can try it out for the day.
- The perfect shade should blend away, hiding imperfections but not hiding your actual skin tone. Contouring, bronzing, highlighting and other makeup tricks can then be added to help you achieve your chosen look. When your complexion is right, everything else will fall into place.
