Identify your skin undertone: cool, warm, neutral, or olive
Test foundation on your jawline, not your hand or wrist
Check the shade in natural daylight
Choose a shade that disappears into your skin
Compare two or three close shades side by side
Consider how your skin changes with seasons
Match the foundation to your neck and chest if needed
Use samples before buying full-size products
Let the foundation sit for a few minutes before deciding
Check the finish with and without other makeup
Ask for help at a makeup counter if available
Use online shade-matching tools as a starting point only
Adjust with concealer or bronzer if you are between shades