Foundation 101: How to Find the Perfect Shade

As for daily makeup, basics - Is makeup the product you probably have in your arsenal. But with so many different types of formulas and products, it can be hard to find the right one. the best foundation for your skin typenot to mention finding the perfect shade to match your skin tone. If you're using a foundation shade that's too dark for your skin tone, the color won't camouflage well on your neck or chest. If you use a shade that's too light, you'll run into a similar problem, besides looking paler than usual. That's why finding the perfect foundation shade is so important, but why does the process have to be so difficult? The good news is that it's not! We'll tell you everything you need to know about choosing the perfect foundation shade, as well as a selection of the best foundations from the L'Oréal brand portfolio to complete your next makeover!

Foundation finder: how to find your foundation

The surest way to know if your foundation suits your skin tone is to look at your jawline. Does the color blend seamlessly into your neck, or does it look striped and mismatched? If the answer is the latter, you'll need help finding the right foundation for your skin tone. You can tell right away if your skin tone is fair, medium, olive, or deep, but keeping your undertones in mind also plays a big role in finding the best foundation shade. Don't know what your undertone is? Check the inside of your wrist. If you have green veins, you most likely have a warm undertone. If you have blue or purple veins, you most likely have a cool undertone. Many foundations are designed with skin tone in mind, so be sure to read the packaging or product name before purchasing.  

How to find the best foundation for your skin type

Finding your perfect foundation shade is important, but finding the right foundation for your skin type is just as important. If your foundation dries out your skin or leaves a greasy film, it's definitely not ideal. Plus, there are so many different types of formulas—from powder to liquid to cream—that you'll want to take into account. Read on for our recommendations on how to find the best foundation for your skin type!

If you have dry skin...use A creamy base that provides desired coverage while keeping dry skin hydrated. Try DermaBlend Professional Cover Creme for full coverage. This non-comedogenic cream base provides all-day full coverage without drying out the skin. What's more, high performance pigments provide a flawless finish and can hide imperfections, blemishes, marks and more.

Dermablend Professional Cover Creme Full coverage foundation MSRP $39.

If you have normal skin...try foundation. Luckily for you, you can wear almost any type of foundation. We recommend the pencil foundation as it is easy to apply and compact enough to travel with you everywhere. Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick is one of our favorite foundations. This non-greasy, long-lasting foundation stick provides adjustable coverage with a natural matte finish. The formula contains SPF 21 and is suitable for all skin types.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick MSRP $42.

If you have sensitive skin...use a foundation that has been formulated with sensitive skin in mind. You can choose between different types of foundation—liquid, powder, cream, stick, etc.—but look for words like non-comedogenic, oil-free, fragrance-free, or paraben-free that might indicate a formula. it is less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Try L'Oréal Paris True Match super blendable cosmetics. This foundation contains no oils, fragrances or pore-clogging fillers, making it ideal for all skin types, including sensitive.

L'Oréal Paris True Match Super Blendable Makeup MSRP $10.95.

If you have oily skin...try a long-lasting matte foundation. The long-lasting formula helps keep makeup in place, while the matte finish helps fight excess shine. We are big fans of Urban Decay's All Nighter Liquid Foundation. This liquid foundation provides full coverage with a matte finish. It also offers long lasting wear that can carry you from day to night. 

Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation MSRP $40.

If you have combination skin...try foundation. Ideal liquid formula that will not stick to dry areas of the skin. Try Maybelline's Dream Cushion Fresh Face Liquid Foundation, which provides full, radiant coverage for a perfectly fresh complexion. Thanks to its portable and compact size, this foundation can be slipped into your purse or makeup bag for use on the go.

Maybelline Dream Cushion Fresh Face Liquid Foundation, MSRP $15.99.