Find your foundation shade

You know that expression “Never judge a book by its cover”? That applies to how to find the right foundation shade, too. Shade names like “Espresso” or “Beige” are not universal to all brands. They can be a helpful guide, but if you want to get it right off the get-go, we always recommend color-matching by a Consultant.

Also, remember that whenever a foundation's form—be it liquid, powder, or cream—is different, the same shade name can look slightly different.

You may want to switch your foundation formula and shades up depending on the season or what your skin is craving. Winter may call for a lighter shade with more hydration, while summer may call for a deeper shade. Where you live plays a role as far as climate is concerned and how it affects your skin. For example, if it’s very humid, you’ll want to look for a foundation that’s sweat- and humidity-resistant.

Personal preference or occasion (day off, workday, big party) will also determine how much coverage you are looking for—sheer, moderate, or full coverage. Sheer coverage provides a light, natural finish that allows your skin to peek through. Moderate coverage evens skin tone without feeling heavy, offering a balanced look. Full coverage provides a more opaque finish.

In addition, a foundation’s finish is what will ultimately help determine the final look:

• Matte: Ideal for oilier skin types
• Natural matte: A velvety finish; works well on nearly any skin type
• Natural: Provides a healthy-looking finish; works well on nearly any skin type
• Radiant: Gives a glow for any skin type, perfect for a dewy, summery vibe

From Even Better Refresh Hydrating and Repairing Makeup to Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer and everything in between, Clinique's foundations are formulated and created for a variety of skin tones and undertones. It’s just about understanding the ins and outs of yours and the differences between the two.

Skin tone is the color of your skin. This can change when you have a suntan, for instance. An undertone, however, is the color that lies beneath your skin, suntan or not.

To identify what type of undertone you have, examine the inside of your wrist. Looking at the veins will help determine if your skin has a cool, warm, or neutral undertone. This knowledge simplifies the foundation selection process, for a harmonious match with your natural complexion.

Understand your skin's undertone by decoding the subtle clues your veins provide:

• Blue veins indicate neutral undertones, allowing flexibility with both cool and warm foundation shades.
• Purple-tinged veins suggest cool undertones, giving the skin a pinkish tint.
• If your veins appear green, warm undertones are present, imparting a golden tone to the skin.

While reaching for a bottle that looks like the right foundation shade is tempting, it’s essential you always try before you buy. Use Clinique’s foundation virtual try-on tool or meet with a Clinique Consultant to find your perfect match.

The best technique for finding your best shade is first to choose three that appear to be a good match, then swatch them (apply a short line) next to each other on your makeup-free, clean jawline, leaving a little skin between each. Allow these swatches to dry completely before making your final selection.

After determining which swatch looks like the best foundation shade match, remove the other two and fill in a small section of your jawline with the leading contender. Now, sweep a cotton swab soaked in makeup remover down the middle of the patch. You've got a match if the revealed skin color is the same as your swatch.

While shade is of the utmost importance, the formula can also significantly influence your foundation choice. You may want to choose a multitasking foundation that not only provides coverage but addresses your concerns.

For individuals with dry combination to combination oily skin seeking SPF protection and assistance in fading the look of dark spots, our Even Better Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is a great fit. It delivers hydration and moderate coverage with a natural finish while working to diminish the look of dark spots over time. Plus, it has SPF protection.

Are you looking for the long-wearing coverage of a foundation with the transforming power of a serum? Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 25 is a full coverage, matte finish foundation that’s great for combination oily and oily skin. Plus, it’s built with 3 serum technology and helps visibly improve skin over time.

It’s not breaking news that you should always check how your foundation looks in natural light before committing. Stand by a window or step outside for that final approval.

In the quest for the perfect foundation shade, aim for a seamless match that enhances your look without heaviness. Start with a clean face, decode your undertones, swatch wisely, and consider different formulas. Your flawless, natural glow awaits—find the ideal foundation that looks like a second skin.