What foundation is right for me?

The right foundation should match your skin tone and undertone, suit your skin type, and provide the amount of coverage and finish you prefer. Before choosing one, consider whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, normal, or sensitive, then test a few shades along your jawline in natural light.

When comparing foundations, look at:

• Skin type
• Coverage level
• Finish, such as matte, natural, or radiant
• Shade and undertone
• Formula and ingredients
• Price and personal preference

The best match should blend into your skin without leaving a noticeable line between your face and neck.

What is foundation?

Foundation helps create a more even-looking complexion and can provide light, medium, or full coverage. Primer is applied before foundation to help makeup apply smoothly or last longer, while concealer is typically used in smaller areas to cover concerns such as blemishes, redness, or dark circles.

photo © 2009 Steven Depolo | more info (via: Wylio)

Examine your face

It’s important to determine your skin type, from dry to oily or anywhere in between. Certain types of foundations are created for different skin types. A dermatologist can give exact answers to your skin type, but it’s just as easy to go to a makeup counter in a department store, or drop by one of our cosmetology schools, where the consultant will go over your skin type with you.

For dry skin, use a moisturizing formula, with words like “moisture-rich” or “moisturizing” on the label.

For oily skin, look for products with “oil control,” “oil-free,” or “mattifying.”

For combination (both dry and oily) skin, first determine if you tend to be oilier in your oily spots, or have just a little bit of oil. Cream-to-powder foundations help to combat multiple skin types for an even look.

For sensitive skin, look for gentle, fragrance-free formulas and consider testing the product on a small area first.

For those with no skin problems, use bottles marked “for normal skin” or ones without any of the terms listed above.

How much coverage?

Women with blemishes or uneven skin tones may want to use a medium-coverage foundation. Mineral-based foundations are great for providing medium coverage. Those with a relatively even skin tone may prefer a light-coverage foundation.

If facial redness is persistent, uncomfortable, or difficult to cover, consider speaking with a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare provider. They can help identify the cause and discuss appropriate care.

Start with a clean palette

Before you go to the store to make your selection, clean your face really well. Putting on a moisturizer or even lipstick is fine, but don’t go any further. Putting on a foundation beforehand will defeat the purpose.

Color your world

Select a few shades that appear close to your complexion and test them along your jawline rather than on your hand. Your face, neck, and hands may all be slightly different colors.

Check the shades in natural light when possible. The best match should blend into both your face and neck without looking noticeably lighter, darker, pinker, or more golden than the surrounding skin.

Undertones are generally described as cool, warm, neutral, or olive. If you are unsure, a makeup professional can help you compare shades and finishes.

Brand and price

There is no single brand or price point that works best for everyone. Higher-priced foundation is not automatically a better match, and many affordable products offer a wide range of formulas, shades, and finishes.

Focus on how the product looks and feels on your skin, how well it lasts, and whether it fits your budget. When possible, check the store’s return policy before purchasing.