Advice on Identifying the Undertone of Your Skin and Foundation

Knowing if my skin’s undertone was cool, warm, or neutral used to baffle me. I did all the color matching “tricks”: looking at veins, what jewelry looks best, etc.

And still could not figure out my skin’s undertone. My foundation and concealer always just looked a little *off.*

I use to color match myself and my makeup clients quickly and accurately! These are the tips I wish I had known forever, they really make matching foundation and concealer so accurate and easy.

STEP 1

Cool or Warm Look in the mirror or down at your skin for a second and without overthinking it: does your skin look like you are cold (think skiing in December) or warm (beach day in August)?

STEP 2

Undertones vs Surface Tones As the name indicates, they are only on the surface of your skin and can change with lifestyle (drinking alcohol/sleep), sun exposure, faux tans, and skin care.

STEP 3

Shades of Undertones Think of undertones like a watercolor paint. It’s not going to be a big, bold color. You will see subtle hints of whatever shade you are.

STEP 4

Color Striping This is my go-to, most accurate way to find the perfect foundation. Color stripping is what I do with every single client to make sure we have a perfect color match before starting makeup.

STEP 5

Cheek Swatches The right foundation will look like a second skin. It will give your face a glow and you’ll be able to wear a minimal amount of other products to make it look natural.

Swipe up to watch the full tutorial!