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Choosing the right foundation shade can feel overwhelming. Shade names, numbers and swatches vary from one range to another, so the most reliable way to find your match in our foundations is to use our own shade system. That is why we match you with our Shade Finder, based on your depth and undertone, rather than by comparing swatches from other ranges.
Why swatches from other ranges are not a reliable guide
- Shade names and numbers differ: a shade called “medium” or “beige” in one range can be quite different in another, so a name does not translate directly into one of our shades.
- Lighting and screens: swatches look different under different lights and on different phone screens.
- Undertones differ: two shades that look similar in depth can have different undertones.
- Your skin changes: sun exposure and the seasons can change your depth, so a shade that suited you last summer may not suit you in winter.
Why a shade can look wrong
- Mismatched undertone: the depth may be right but the undertone is not, which can look slightly grey, pink or orange.
- Testing in the wrong place: your hand and wrist are often a different colour from your face and neck.
- Judging too soon: foundation can look slightly different once it has settled.
How we help you find your shade
- Depth first: our Shade Finder starts with your depth. Our Shade Finder for Pros explains depth bands 1 to 6.
- Then undertone: cool, warm or neutral. We do not make olive shades.
- Two close shades: we suggest at least two close shades, which you can order as 8 ml trials where available.
- Test properly: apply each on your jawline, blend down onto the neck, and check in daylight once the foundation has settled.
- Ask an agent: our agents can help you choose shades and the right formula for your skin type. Find one with our Agent Finder.
Trial Size Foundations
8 ml foundation samples so you can test your shade before buying 30 ml 4 formulas: Luminous, 48hr Matte, Hydrating Full Coverage…
Mooiste Meisie holds our lighter shades and Umuhle Cosmetics holds our deeper shades, so together our ranges cover a wide spread of depths and undertones.
Benefits of matching with our system
- Accuracy: you choose from our actual shades, based on your depth and undertone.
- Less guesswork: testing two trials side by side shows you which one disappears into your skin.
- Confidence: a well-matched foundation looks natural and even.
A few important rules
- Never choose a shade because a model or influencer wears it. Her shade is her match, not yours.
- Never choose a shade from someone’s name, background or where they are from. Only depth and undertone matter.
- Trials are not available in Cashew, Clove, Deep Ebony or Espresso, and there is no Skin Tint trial.
If your foundation blotches or wears off during the day, see our guide to troubleshooting foundation that blotches or wipes off.
Frequently asked questions
Can you match me from a shade I wear in another range?
Shade names differ between ranges, so we match you by depth and undertone with our Shade Finder instead.
What if I am between two shades?
Order both as 8 ml trials where available and test them on your jawline in daylight.
Which foundation should I choose?
Oily or combination skin often suits our 48HR Matte Transfer-Proof Foundation. All skin types can wear our Hydrating Serum Full-Coverage Foundation. Mature or very dry skin may prefer our Luminous Foundation.
Where to buy
Get advice from an agent near you.
You can order through a Mooiste Meisie or Umuhle Cosmetics agent near you, using our Agent Finder, or directly from our online shop. Both options give you the same products, so choose whichever suits you best. An agent can also help you choose shades and build a routine.
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Questions about this story?
Ask us on WhatsApp for advice on products, shades or your routine. We reply personally, and your number stays private.
