Finding the perfect foundation shade is like finding the perfect partner—when it's right, everything just clicks. A well-matched foundation creates a seamless, natural finish that looks like a better version of your own skin. With Revlon ColorStay offering 43 shades, there's a perfect match waiting for everyone.
Understanding Skin Undertones
The first step to finding your perfect shade is understanding your skin's undertone. Your undertone is the subtle hue beneath your skin's surface, and it stays consistent regardless of how tan or pale you become.
Cool Undertones
Pink, red, or bluish hues. Veins appear blue or purple. Silver jewellery looks best on you.
Warm Undertones
Yellow, golden, or peachy hues. Veins appear green. Gold jewellery looks best on you.
Neutral Undertones
A mix of both warm and cool. Both silver and gold jewellery look equally flattering.
The Undertone Test Methods
1. The Vein Test
Look at the veins on your inner wrist in natural light:
- Blue or purple veins = Cool undertone
- Green veins = Warm undertone
- Mix of blue and green = Neutral undertone
2. The Jewellery Test
Think about which metal looks best against your skin:
- Silver flatters you more = Cool undertone
- Gold flatters you more = Warm undertone
- Both look equally good = Neutral undertone
3. The White Paper Test
Hold a piece of pure white paper next to your bare face. How does your skin look in comparison?
- Pinkish or rosy = Cool undertone
- Yellowish or golden = Warm undertone
- Grey or ashen, no strong pull either way = Neutral undertone
Pro Tip
Do all these tests in natural daylight for the most accurate results. Artificial lighting can skew your perception of your skin's true undertone.
How to Test Foundation Shades
Where to Swatch
Never test foundation on your hand or arm—the skin there is often a different shade than your face. Instead:
- Apply test swatches along your jawline
- Test 2-3 shades that look closest to your skin
- The correct shade should blend seamlessly and "disappear" into your skin
Using the right application techniques helps your foundation blend flawlessly into your skin.
Check in Natural Light
Store lighting is often warm and flattering, which can make shades appear different than they actually are. After swatching:
- Walk near a window or outside
- Look at your jawline in a mirror
- The best match won't create a visible line where the foundation ends
ColorStay Shade Guide
Revlon ColorStay foundations are categorized by depth and undertone:
- Fair to Light shades: Ivory, Buff, Natural Beige, Nude
- Light to Medium shades: Sand Beige, True Beige, Warm Golden
- Medium to Tan shades: Toast, Caramel, Rich Tan
- Deep shades: Mahogany, Cappuccino, Espresso, Mocha
Perfect Match Guarantee
Still unsure? Visit your local Clicks or Dis-Chem and ask a beauty advisor for help. They can match your skin tone using professional techniques and help you find your perfect ColorStay shade.
What If You're Between Shades?
If you find yourself torn between two shades:
- For a natural look: Choose the lighter shade in winter, darker in summer
- For full coverage: Pick the shade that matches your neck to avoid a floating face effect
- For sheer coverage: Either shade will work as it will blend with your natural skin
Seasonal Adjustments
Your skin tone can shift by up to two shades between winter and summer, especially in sunny South Africa. Consider having:
- A lighter shade for winter months
- A darker shade for summer when you have more colour
- Mix the two during transitional seasons for a perfect match year-round
Ready to find your perfect match? Visit Clicks, Dis-Chem, Pick n Pay, or any leading retailer across South Africa to discover your ideal ColorStay shade.