Buying clothes or accessories online is often an easy, fun, and risk-free experience. If something doesn't fit, you can simply return it and a new order will arrive at your door in a few days. But when it comes to cosmetics, especially foundation, the game changes. Most stores don't accept returns on opened products, so your choice needs to be as accurate as possible from the start.
Sometimes, even when we buy foundation in a physical store, after applying it at home we realize that the shade is not right or the texture does not go at all with our skin. In an increasingly digitalized market, where online shopping has become routine, how do we find the ideal foundation without trying it on physically?
Don't worry, here are some tips from experts to make the right choice.
1. Based on your skin type
The first step is to know what skin type you have:
Oily? Look for foundations with a matte finish and are oil-free.
Dry? Choose moisturizing formulas that don't dry out your skin further.
Sensitive, with redness or blemishes? Look for products with good coverage and ingredients that soothe the skin.
With wrinkles or pronounced texture? Avoid foundations with heavy coverage, which can accentuate imperfections.
2. Choose the texture you like
Do you like a lightweight foundation that is barely noticeable on the skin? Or do you prefer full coverage for a ' flawless ' effect?
If you've used foundations before, you probably already know what suits you. Read the product description carefully: there you'll find information about coverage, finish, and skin feel. Don't buy anything without knowing whether it's for dry, oily, or combination skin.
3. Use the internet to your advantage
Instead of buying directly, do a simple search on Google or YouTube. Search for the name of the foundation + " swatches " or " reviews ." Find videos or photos of girls with similar skin tones to you, and see what the foundation looks like in natural light. This is the closest way to reality.
4. How to choose the right shade
Choosing the right color is the biggest challenge. Here are some tricks:
Look at the " swatches " of the shades on the inner part of the arm, where the skin tone is more neutral.
Compare your tone with the models displayed on the brand's official website, many of which have photos for each shade.
Don't forget that skin tone changes with the seasons: in winter you may be a lighter tone, while in summer, especially after the holidays, you may be darker. Choose a darker shade for summer and a lighter one for winter. Foundation for summer should have SPF and be as sweat-resistant as possible.
5. Take an online test
Many brands today have online quizzes that help you choose the perfect foundation based on your skin type and needs. Take 2-3 minutes to complete it, it's much better than ending up with a product you never use.
Don't forget:
Read comments and ratings from other users.
If you're between two shades, always choose the lighter one, it's easier to warm it up with bronzer than to bleach it.
Buy from stores that offer samples, returns, or product guarantees (many reputable online sites offer this).
