YOUR SHADE MATCH GUIDE

Whether you're new to complexion or simply switching formulas, the right shade match can make the difference between coverage that looks natural and coverage that looks like skin.

Understand your undertones

Before you find your foundation shade, it helps to understand your foundation undertones. Your undertone stays consistent year-round, even as your skin tone changes with the seasons. It's the foundation of every good shade matching decision.

• Cool undertones lean pink, red, or bluish
• Warm undertones lean yellow, peachy, or golden
• Neutral undertones sit comfortably between the two

Account for the shifts in season

Your complexion matching needs may change from summer to winter as your skin gets lighter or darker with sun exposure. A good rule of thumb: consider having two shades on hand to blend as the seasons shift, or choose a formula with a natural, skin-like finish that reads true across a range of depths.

Use every tool available

No two skin tones are alike and no single method works for everyone. That’s why at Westman Atelier, we offer four ways to find your foundation shade.

Our foundation Shade Finder Quiz takes just 60 seconds to discover your perfect shade and formula. Our Search the Database tool lets you use your current foundation to find your perfect Westman Atelier shade match, making it the easiest way to cross-reference what you already love. Our Send a Selfie option connects you with a trained artist who will email you a personalized shade match recommendation based on your photo. And you can even Book an Appointment for a complimentary one-on-one video session with a Clean Beauty Concierge makeup artist for the most personalized complexion matching experience of all.

A few shade selection tips worth knowing

• Always match foundation to your neck, not your face. The goal is seamless blending, not a line of demarcation.
• Test in natural light when possible, and give the formula a few minutes to oxidize before making your final call.
• When in doubt, go slightly lighter. It's easier to build depth than to lighten coverage.
• Online color matching tools work best in good lighting with a clean, makeup-free face.

Choose the method that works best for you and let your skin lead the way.