Look, we all know that everyone’s skin is different.
This includes our skin color, which trying to perfectly match is some kind of equation of undertones, shades, color correction… and some kind of something about if you look better in gold or silver jewelry.
I’m no professional. It leaves me like:
For many years, a lot of us were out here mixing shades together to make our perfect match. But it’s 2020, and inclusivity and representation are finally at the forefront of beauty. Brands having a diverse range of shades that cater to every skin color is a must!
That’s why I’m here — to talk about some of the companies that are doing it right. So, the next time you’re on the hunt for your perfect shade, give one of these reliable brand a go.
Fenty Beauty
Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation // $35
When it comes to inclusivity, I would expect nothing less from Rihanna. She’s shown the world that she’s the queen of inclusivity in everything she does — after all, her Savage x Fenty line has been praised over and over again for delivering “Beauty for All.”
It extends to Fenty Beauty, which first launched with 40 beautiful shades of foundation. Today, that’s expanded to 60, with well-crafted shades for everyone. If you’re unsure where to start, the website features the Fenty Face Shade Finder. The quiz will help you find your perfect shade, and suggest other helpful tips and products.
II Makiage
Woke Up Like This Flawless Base Foundation // $44
I first discovered this brand on Instagram, and I was seriously impressed. The tech-led beauty brand has a seriously impressive color matching system, thanks to the comprehensive PowerMatch algorithm.
The quiz might take a few, but it promises to find your perfect match out of the 50 available shades. And if you’re sketch about ordering a foundation strictly online, rest assured. You can return it for free, and they offer a 100% money back guarantee.
MAC Cosmetics
Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation // $33
Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation // $33
I’m a creature of habit, and I reach for MAC Studio Fix 99% of the time. They’ve been doing me right for nearly 20 years, and it’s been around even longer than that. Studio Fix Fluid has been a favorite in the beauty world for a really long time, thanks to its buildable coverage and ability to keep shine at bay.
MAC also has Studio Fix Powder Plus, which gives you an ultra-matte finish that controls shine. The powder foundation is a favorite of mine in the summer when it’s too hot and sticky for liquid foundation.
To help you wade through the brand’s impressive lineup of 64 shades, you can always hit up a MAC counter. They can match your skin on the spot. However, if you’d rather not leave the comfort of home, MAC has also rolled out their Foundation Finder. Choose from images and filter by undertones, and then you can virtually try it on to see how it looks.
NYX Cosmetics
Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation // $15
NYX Cosmetics is leading the budget beauty game. Thanks to this brand, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a lower price point. Plus, it’s available in 45 shades, which is pretty rare for drugstore foundations.
Online, NYX won’t leave you hanging, either. You can try on foundation shades virtually with an uploaded photo or live with your camera. And in case that wasn’t enough, they also offer live consultation via camera with one of their beauty advisors.