How to determine your undertone? The guide to the perfect foundation shade
Most women choose their foundation based on skin depth — too light, too dark, just right. But the undertone is at least as crucial. A foundation that is one shade too pink will cast a grey pallor over a warm complexion. One that is too yellow will make a cool complexion look unnatural.
What is an undertone and why does it matter?
- Cool — pink, red or bluish-purple tones in the skin
- Warm — yellow, golden or peachy tones
- Neutral — a mix of cool and warm
Three ways to determine your undertone at home
1. Look at the inside of your wrist
Veins bluish or purple → cool. Greenish → warm. Mix → neutral.
2. Which metal suits you better?
Silver → cool. Gold → warm. Both equally good → neutral.
3. How does your skin react to the sun?
Burns easily, rarely tans → often cool. Tans quickly → often warm.
Cool, warm or neutral — which Mineralissima shade suits you?
Cool undertone
| Shade | Skin Depth |
|---|---|
| Bloom | Light skin |
| Cashmere | Light-medium skin |
| Pastel | Medium skin |
Warm undertone
| Shade | Skin Depth |
|---|---|
| Dawn | Light skin |
| Biscotti | Medium skin, tanned |
| Latte | Medium-dark skin |
Neutral undertone
| Shade | Skin Depth |
|---|---|
| Ivory | Very light, porcelain skin |
| Cotton | Light-medium skin |
| Shell | Medium skin |
What if your undertone is not clear?
Option 1: Order the Foundation Tester
→ Order the Mineralissima Foundation Tester
Option 2: Visit us in Oss
→ More about colour advice in Oss
Tips for testing at home
- Always test on your jawline, not on your hand
- Test in daylight — artificial light distorts
- Let the shade set for 5 to 10 minutes
- Test two shades side-by-side if you're unsure
Frequently asked questions
Can my undertone change?
No. Your undertone is genetically determined.
I have a tinted skin — do the same rules apply?
Yes. Undertone is separate from skin depth.
My foundation looks different at home than outside. Why is that?
Artificial light distorts the colour. Always test in daylight.
