How To Chose The Right Foundation For Your Skin Color and Type

How To Find The Perfect Foundation For Your Skin

With correctly chosen products and proper application, foundation can be used to reduce imperfections and enhance glowing skin. Other benefits include toning skin, soothing skin, hiding blemishes and added protection against earth’s elements such as sun, wind and air.

Some makeup counters such as Prescriptives and Clinique offer custom blend services. These can be costly though. For some, the luxury of personal and individualized products may not be an option. However, the right foundation can still be found. This will only require trial and error, determination and patience.

There are so many different formulas and ingredients in makeup products. An important ingredient that is most beneficial is a foundation with an SPF of 15. Protection from UVA and UVB rays will yield high rewards later.. less wrinkles. Also consider your skin type, if it is oily then look for oil-free bases. Dry skin can opt for hydrating or moisture-rich formulas. If you are acne prone then look for foundations that won’t clog pores. These are labeled noncomedogenic.

When you look for your foundation, be sure to purchase a shade that is as close to your natural color as possible. For best results, try purchasing the foundation in daylight so it will accurately reflect its true match. Ask for a mirror and observe the result near a door or window to see how it will look in natural light. Also, be sure the foundation has undertones that will match your skin color. For many, it is either pink or yellow. If you need a concealer for extra coverage, purchase both the concealer and foundation from the same product line to ensure a perfect match.


I’ve read articles that suggest applying to the wrist or even the forearm, but I believe when testing your chosen shade, it should be applied to the jaw line. This is, after all, where it will be worn. Just be sure the product you try has not been handled inappropriately to avoid transfer of bacteria.

Lastly, whenever I go shopping (whether clothes or makeup), I always like to bring a helpful friend along. Helpful customer service at makeup counters is great, but I still prefer the advice of an honest friend. Just in case.