The right shade disappears into your skin. Testing in the right place and the right light makes all the difference.
Quick look
- Test shades on your jawline, not on the back of your hand.
- Check the colour in natural daylight, ideally after a few minutes of wear.
- Your undertone, warm, cool or neutral, matters as much as how light or deep your skin is.
- Your shade can change with the seasons, so you may want two to mix.
Foundation that’s too light, too dark or the wrong undertone is easy to spot. A few simple checks help you find a shade that looks like your skin.
Work out your undertone
Your undertone is the colour beneath the surface of your skin, and it doesn’t change with a tan.
| Undertone | Common signs |
|---|---|
| Warm | Gold jewellery suits you; the veins on your wrist look greenish; skin has a golden or peachy tint |
| Cool | Silver jewellery suits you; veins look blue or purple; skin has a pink or rosy tint |
| Neutral | Gold and silver both suit you; your veins are hard to call; a mix of both |
These are rough guides rather than rules, but they help narrow down the options.
How to test a shade
- Choose two or three shades that look close.
- Swipe each one in a stripe along your jawline, from cheek to neck.
- Step into daylight and look in a mirror.
- The shade that seems to disappear into both your face and neck is the one.
Little trick
Ask for a sample, or wear a tester for a few hours. Some foundations change slightly as they dry, so the shade that looks right in the shop may look different later.
Choose a finish
- Matte: controls shine, so it often suits oily skin.
- Satin or natural: a middle ground that suits most skin types.
- Dewy or radiant: adds glow, so it often suits dry skin.
Seasons and changes
Your skin may be a little deeper in summer and lighter in winter. Having two shades to mix lets you adjust through the year.
Good to note
If a new foundation causes itching, redness or a rash, stop using it. If you have sensitive skin, try a new product on a small patch of skin for a few days before using it on your face.
Less can be more
You don’t always need full coverage. A sheer layer, plus concealer only where you need it, often looks more natural. Our five-minute makeup routine shows how to build a quick, light look, and our guide to how long makeup lasts helps you keep products fresh.
Ask away
What if I’m between two shades?
Many people mix two shades together, or use the lighter one in winter and the deeper one in summer.
Why does my foundation look darker after a while?
Some foundations change slightly as they dry and mix with your skin’s natural oils. Wearing a sample for a few hours before buying helps you spot this.
Do I need foundation at all?
No. A tinted moisturiser, or a little concealer where you need it, can be enough, especially for everyday looks.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For skin, scalp or allergy concerns, speak to a pharmacist, your GP or a dermatologist. In an emergency, call 999.