Natural beautyHow to match powder and your skin tone
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How to match powder and your skin tone

When it comes to flawless makeup, the wrong powder can undo all your hard work. The right powder? It can blur, set, smooth, and finish like a dream. But with so many shades and finishes out there, finding the perfect match for your skin tone can feel like trying to solve a mystery in a makeup aisle. Don’t worry — I’ve got you.

Here’s how to choose the powder that works with your skin, not against it.

“Makeup should always enhance, never mask. The right powder feels invisible — it disappears into your skin, letting your natural beauty (and your hard work) shine through.”

Know Your Undertone First
Before you even look at powders, figure out your undertone — this is the color underneath your skin’s surface that affects how foundation and powder appear on you.

  • Cool undertones: pink, red, or bluish hues
  • Warm undertones: yellow, peachy, or golden hues
  • Neutral undertones: a balanced mix of warm and cool

Pro tip: Check the veins on your wrist. If they look blue or purple, you’re likely cool-toned. Greenish veins suggest warm tones. A mix? You’re probably neutral.

Choose the Right Shade, Not Just the Lightness
People often assume they need the lightest powder because they have fair skin, or the darkest because they’re deep-toned — but shade depth and undertone are two different things. Look for powders labeled “warm,” “cool,” or “neutral” in addition to light, medium, or deep. You want both to match!

Test It Where It Matters
Always test powder on your jawline or neck, not the back of your hand. The goal is to blend the face seamlessly with your body — and your jawline is the bridge.

Choose the Right Finish for Your Skin Type

  • Oily skin? A matte powder will keep shine at bay.
  • Dry or mature skin? A satin or luminous finish will prevent your makeup from looking flat or cakey.
  • Normal/combination? You have more flexibility — just avoid overly drying formulas
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Don’t Be Afraid to Mix
Sometimes your perfect match is two powders blended together. Makeup isn’t about rules — it’s about results. You can mix a deeper powder with a lighter one, or blend two undertones if you’re in between.

Translucent Isn’t Always Universal
Translucent powders are marketed as one-size-fits-all, but on deeper skin tones they can leave a white cast — especially in photos. If you have medium to deep skin, opt for a tinted setting powder that matches your tone.

If you’re ever in doubt, ask a pro to help shade-match you in person. And if you’re in Chicago? You already know who to call 😉

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