Sir John's top 7 makeup tips for darker skin tones

When it comes to applying makeup to dark skin tonesThe art of creating a flawless foundation can sometimes be tricky - from some beauty brands selling a limited range of foundation shades to determining which formulas have the right shade for your skin. John to lead the way and help you find the perfect base combination. Read on for it makeup tips for dark skin, including how best to buy foundation, important skin care tips before applying foundation etc. 

Tip #1: Your Complexion Has Multiple Colors

We all tend to group our skin tone to one hue, but keep in mind that your skin actually contains a variety of colors. “When it comes to finding a foundation for women with a deeper skin tone, something to keep in mind is that complexions often feature multiple colors, and this is especially true for women of color,” Sir John says. This is why many foundations feature shades with different undertones to choose from.

Tip #2: Get Two Tonal Shades

Our skin doesn't really stay the same shade all year round. While our skin tends to stay more natural in winter and autumn, we tend to tan during the warmer months. That's why Sir John recommends taking "everyday shade" and "summer shade" when shopping for foundation. “This allows you to always have the right shade on hand, no matter the season,” he says. 

Tip #3: Don't Buy Foundation Just Because It's Trending

Just because a trendy foundation will work on one person does not mean it will work for you. Instead of buying a foundation solely because your favorite beauty influencers are using it, Sir John advises sticking to a trusty foundation that you know will work for you. 

"You should always buy a foundation that suits your skin type, and not buy something just because it's the 'hottest'," he says. The foundation our editors recommend for all skin types is Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation, which is presented in 30 shades and L'Oréal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation, which is presented in more than 40 shades. 

Tip #4: Use the perimeter of your face for color matching

Things usually get tricky when it comes to color matching, which is why Sir John suggests this brilliant hack: use your hairline and the perimeter of your face. He said that these areas are a little darker than the inner-circle of your face, and the lighter areas are where you don't have to go in with a heavy hand for makeup application.

Tip #5: Apply moisturizer before foundation

We're all guilty of skipping moisturizing before foundation every now and then, but Sir John says that it makes a huge difference to the finish of your makeup. So, it's always wise to apply moisturizer as a first step, even if you have oily skin.

“A common misconception is that if you have oily skin you don't need to apply moisturizer, but this isn't true — your skin always needs water and hydration,” he says. “If you need to use a mattifying moisturizer because you are oily, opt for that instead of something super emollient.” 

A lightweight, refreshing moisturizer that doesn't feel too thick on your skin like Lancôme Hydra Zen Day Cream, perfect for the job.

Tip #6: Feel free to experiment

Sir John says that utilizing your products in different ways can reveal some impressive results. For example, instead of using your foundation all over your face, try using it only on problem areas and spots that you're looking to cover, and then opt for a lightweight tinted moisturizer or light concealer everywhere else for some light coverage.

Tip #7: For a Luminous Glow, Try Using Liquid Highlighters

Sir John is a self-proclaimed fan of glowing and radiant skin, and he achieves this on most of his clients using liquid or cream highlighters. 

Our editors love the long-lasting and reflective glows. Armani Beauty Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer. It comes in seven stunning shades, from Coral to Champagne to Peach, so you can get the glow that best compliments your skin tone. Plus, its lightweight formula doubles as a bronzer and blush in one.