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Uche’s key tips to finding the perfect foundation
Words Uche Natori
The key to finding your ‘perfect’ foundation, besides the tone itself, lies within the undertone. These days brands make things a little easier by breaking down foundation categories by undertones; warm, cool and neutral. Brands that do this very well (in my opinion) with extensive shade ranges are NARS, Bobbi Brown, Too Faced, NYX Cosmetics, Fenty Beauty and Lancôme. Often you may find your foundation appears ‘grey’, or something just isn’t quite right? This is likely due to incorrect undertone and sometimes the wrong foundation match all together. I’ve put together my top tips for finding your ideal foundation.
There are a few ways to work out your undertone at home. For example; ‘green’ appearing veins may indicate a warm/golden undertone. Others have said: ‘light or white metals such as white gold, platinum and silver will look flattering on those with a cool skin undertone. Yellowish jewellery, such as gold and copper work with those with a warm skin undertone.
This may be a little difficult depending on the current restrictions in your city, but getting a shade matched at a few concession/beauty counters is usually my second tip. Most counters offer ‘testers’ so you can try before you buy. This will give you a few options to decide between. Also it’s helpful to see how a foundation wears throughout the day. Pay attention to what it looks like in the store/in daylight. Walk around the shopping centre with it for some time before you commit.
When trying a new foundation, it’s good to look out for ‘oxidation’; this is the process in which the shade becomes slightly darker with wear. Some foundations oxidise. The best way to combat this is to get a shade lighter, which should oxidise to your ‘ideal’ shade.
If you find your neck is darker or your face is darker etc., I always recommend matching your foundation to your chest. This is how I’ve matched foundations for years. You may need to bring the product down your neck (things may get messy but nothing a good wash won’t solve), and you’re good to go.