If you’re trying to determine whether you have red or yellow undertones, you’re not alone. Identifying your skin’s undertones can help you choose the right colors in clothing and makeup that enhance your natural beauty. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure it out.

What Are Skin Undertones?

Skin undertones are the subtle hues that lie beneath the surface of your skin, affecting your overall complexion. They are usually categorized into three types:

• Cool undertones: These have hints of blue, pink, or red.
• Warm undertones: These include yellow, peach, or golden hues.
• Neutral undertones: A mix of both cool and warm tones.

How to Identify Your Undertone

1. Check Your Veins

One of the easiest ways to determine your undertone is by looking at the veins on the inside of your wrist.

• Blue or purple veins: Indicate cool undertones.
• Greenish veins: Suggest warm undertones.
• A mix of both: Points to neutral undertones.

2. Jewelry Test

Consider whether gold or silver jewelry looks better on you.

• Silver jewelry: Typically flatters those with cool undertones.
• Gold jewelry: Often enhances warm undertones.
• Both look good: You might have neutral undertones.

3. The White Paper Test

Hold a piece of white paper next to your face in natural light.

• Skin appears pink or rosy: Likely cool undertones.
• Skin looks yellow or golden: Indicates warm undertones.
• Neither stands out: You may have neutral undertones.

4. Sun Reaction

How your skin reacts to the sun can also provide clues.

• Burns easily, rarely tans: Suggests cool undertones.
• Tans easily, rarely burns: Points to warm undertones.
• Tans gradually: Indicates neutral undertones.

Practical Examples of Undertone Influence

Makeup Choices

• Foundation: Choose a foundation with a base that matches your undertone. Cool undertones benefit from pink-based foundations, while warm undertones suit yellow-based ones.
• Lipstick: Cool undertones work well with blue-based reds, while warm undertones shine in orange-reds.

Clothing Colors

• Cool undertones: Look great in jewel tones like sapphire and emerald.
• Warm undertones: Complement earthy colors like olive and mustard.

Why Undertones Matter

Understanding your undertones can enhance your personal style and beauty routine. It ensures that the colors you choose for clothing and makeup harmonize with your natural complexion, making you look vibrant and polished.

People Also Ask

How do I know if I have neutral undertones?

If you have neutral undertones, your skin will not have a strong pink, red, yellow, or olive hue. Jewelry and clothing in both silver and gold, or cool and warm colors, will look equally flattering on you.

Can my undertones change over time?

While your skin’s surface tone can change due to sun exposure or age, your undertones remain consistent throughout your life. They are determined by genetics and don’t alter with external factors.

How do I choose a foundation for yellow undertones?

For yellow undertones, select a foundation with a yellow or golden base. Brands often label these as "warm" or "golden" in their shade range, which will blend seamlessly with your skin.

Can I have both red and yellow undertones?

It’s possible to have a combination of undertones, especially if you have neutral undertones. This means you might notice both red and yellow hues, making you versatile in color choices.

What if I still can’t determine my undertone?

If you’re unsure, consider consulting a makeup professional or a dermatologist. They can provide a more precise analysis and advice tailored to your skin’s unique characteristics.

Conclusion

Discovering your skin undertone is a valuable step in refining your personal style and enhancing your natural beauty. By using simple tests like checking your veins, trying on different jewelry, and observing your sun reaction, you can confidently select colors that complement your complexion. Embrace your undertone, and let it guide your fashion and beauty choices for a more harmonious and radiant look.