Find the perfect foundation shade for your skin in 3 steps
The right foundation is invisible. It stands out by what it conceals – imperfections, redness, blemishes – but not by its presence. Yet, finding that perfect shade is a challenge for many, especially online.
At Mineralissima, it doesn't have to be. With a clever system of undertones, samples, and a handy test, you can find your perfect match at home. In this article, we'll explain how, step by step.
Step 1: Discover your undertone
In addition to your general skin tone (light, medium, or dark), your skin also has an undertone: a subtle layer of color that doesn't change, not even after a day in the sun or a spray tan. The undertone determines which foundation colors blend beautifully with your skin – and which ones will make you look unnatural or orange.
There are three types of undertones: cool, warm, and neutral. Here’s how to find out which one you have:
Test 1: Look at the veins in your wrist
Hold your wrist up in daylight and look at the color of your veins:
- Blue or purple → cool undertone
- Green or yellowish-green → warm undertone
- No clear color, in between → neutral undertone
Test 2: Look at your neck and décolletage
Your face and hands get a lot of sun and can change color. Your neck and décolletage provide a better indication of your true skin color and undertone.
Step 2: Choose the right shade for your undertone
Cool undertone (pink or porcelain)
Do you recognize yourself in this?
- Your veins are blue or purple
- Your skin burns easily in the sun
- Your eyes are blue, gray, or green
- Your hair is blonde, dark blonde, or ash brown
With a cool undertone, your skin looks best with foundation in neutral or slightly pinkish shades. Avoid overly yellow or orange shades – these will give your skin an unnatural effect.
→ View all foundations for a cool undertone
→ View blushers for a cool undertone
→ View bronzers for a cool undertone
Warm undertone (olive or golden yellow)
Do you recognize yourself in this?
- Your veins are green or yellowish-green
- You tan quickly in the sun and rarely burn
- Your eyes are brown, hazel, or amber
- Your hair is strawberry blonde, chestnut brown, or black
With a warm undertone, your skin looks best with foundation in golden yellow, espresso, or latte shades. Avoid overly cool or pink shades – these will make your skin look sallow.
→ View all foundations for a warm undertone
→ View blushers for a warm undertone
→ View bronzers for a warm undertone
Neutral undertone (in between)
You don't tan quickly, but you also don't burn easily. The vein test didn't give a clear color. Your skin has both warm and cool elements.
Good news: a neutral undertone is the most versatile. You can wear both cool and warm shades, as long as the brightness of the color suits you.
→ View all foundations for a neutral undertone
→ View blushers for a neutral undertone
→ View bronzers for a neutral undertone
Step 3: Test the color at home
Still undecided between two or three shades? Order them as samples. This way, you can test at home which color suits you best, without risk.
Here's how to do the test:
- Place a small amount of powder into the lid of the jar (first remove the label from the sifter).
- Dip the kabuki brush into the powder with a swirling motion.
- Apply the color to your jawline – not on your hand or wrist, as these may have a different shade.
- Give the minerals a minute to adapt to your skin.
- The color that disappears into your own skin is your match.
→ Order your foundation samples here
Prefer to watch a video first? Watch the instruction video on YouTube.
The most common mistake with foundation
The biggest mistake? Choosing a color you want to be, instead of the color you are.
A foundation that is too dark or too orange stands out, even if you want to look more tanned. Foundation is meant to even out and protect your skin – not to simulate a different skin tone. Do you want a sun-kissed look? Use a mineral bronzer for that.
The golden rule: you don't see the perfect foundation, you feel it.
Do you need different shades per season?
If your skin gets significantly darker in the summer, it's wise to have two shades: one for winter and one for summer. You can also mix them for the perfect in-between shade.
The beauty of mineral foundation: the powder subtly adapts to your skin. As long as the undertone is correct, there is some leeway in the brightness of the color.
Which type of foundation do you choose?
At Rozemarijn-Naturalcare, you will find three types of Mineralissima foundation:
- Mineral Powder Foundation – light to medium coverage, matte finish, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Apply with a kabuki brush.
- Liquid Hydrating Foundation – liquid formula with hydrating properties and a natural radiant finish. Ideal for dry and normal skin.
- 2-in-1 Foundation – works as a foundation and a powder in one compact. Ideal for on the go.
Ready to find your perfect foundation?
Order a sample and discover it yourself →
