Makeup Tips by Undertone: Your Guide to Glowing with Confidence

makeup for dark skin

At Serwaa Beauty, we believe that true beauty lies in celebrating the differences that make each of us extraordinary. In this blog post, we'll explore how to find your signature look by tailoring your beauty routine to your specific skin tone and undertone.

Understanding Your Skin Tone

The first step in unlocking your beauty potential is to understand your skin tone and undertone. Skin tone refers to the overall lightness or darkness of your complexion, while undertone is the subtle hue that lies beneath the surface. Determining your undertone can be a game-changer when it comes to finding the perfect foundation, blush, and lip color.

To identify your undertone, use these tips:

  • Jewelry Test: Do you tend to look better in gold or silver jewelry? If gold flatters you more, you likely have a warm undertone. If silver suits you best, you may be cool. If both look great, you’re probably neutral.
  • White vs. Cream Test: Hold a piece of pure white clothing next to your face, then try off-white or cream. If white makes your skin pop, you're likely cool; if cream looks better, you may be warm. If both flatter you, you might be neutral.
  • Look at Your Overall Hue: If your skin has golden, yellow, or red tones, you’re likely warm. If your skin reflects more blue, red, or pinkish tones, you’re probably cool. Neutral undertones are usually a balance—not leaning strongly in either direction.

Once you've pinpointed your undertone, you can start exploring makeup and skincare products that will seamlessly complement your unique complexion.

Makeup Tips for Different Skin Tones

Foundation is the foundation (pun intended) of any makeup look, so it's crucial to find the perfect match. Avoid the common mistake of choosing a shade that's too light or too dark. Instead, swatch a few options on your jawline and check the color in natural lighting. The right foundation should blend seamlessly into your skin, creating a flawless, second-skin effect.

When it comes to eyeshadows and blush, opt for colors that enhance your undertone. Cool-toned beauties will look radiant in plums, blues, and grays, while warm-toned skin glows with earthy tones like oranges, bronzes, and golds. Neutral undertones can play with a wider range of hues, from soft pinks to rich berries.

Lipstick is where you can truly express your individual style. Experiment with a variety of shades, from bold reds and deep berries to soft nudes and vibrant corals. If a shade doesn't look flattering, don't give up. Here are some tips to finding your signature lip combo:

  • Don’t Ditch the Shade Too Soon
    If a lipstick or gloss doesn’t look quite right—try pairing it with a lip liner before giving up on it. A good liner adds shape, depth, and contrast—instantly elevating any lip color. (Try our luxury lip liner here.) 

  • Mix & Match
    Experiment! Pair deeper liners with lighter glosses or layer two glosses for a custom shade.

  • Play with Undertones
    Choose lip colors and liners that work with your skin’s undertone—warm, cool, or neutral—for a more flattering finish.

  • Balance Bold Colors
    If you’re wearing a bold lip, balance it with a soft liner or vice versa to keep it wearable, or try an ombre lip to give a hint of boldness. 

  • Confidence is Key
    There’s no “wrong” combo if you love how it makes you feel. Go with what makes you feel bold, beautiful, and uniquely you.

Confidence and Self-Expression

At the heart of Serwaa Beauty's philosophy is the belief that true beauty lies in embracing your individuality. We encourage you to break free from societal beauty standards and celebrate the unique features that make you who you are. Whether you prefer a bold, statement-making look or a more natural, effortless vibe, the most important thing is that you feel confident and empowered in your own skin.

Remember, beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It's about finding the products, techniques, and styles that make you feel your absolute best. Experiment, have fun, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your beauty is a reflection of your inner light, and we're here to help you let it shine.

By embracing your skin tone, undertone, and individual features, you'll unlock a world of beauty possibilities and find your signature look. So, go forth and experiment, have fun, and let your inner radiance shine. Your beauty is one-of-a-kind, and we can't wait to see it. Ready to find your perfect lip combo? Shop our best-selling lip liners and glosses here!

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