Finding makeup products that suit darker skin tones can be a challenge, especially with the limited shades available in mainstream beauty brands. With the cosmetics industry gradually expanding its offerings, there are more options available for women of color. But, where do you even start when looking for makeup that complements your darker complexion? Here’s an ultimate guide to help you navigate through the process and find the best products for your skin tone.

Know Your Skin Tone

Before diving in, it’s essential to figure out your undertone. The three foundation undertones are cool, warm, and neutral. If you have a cool undertone, your skin looks pink or red-based. If your skin appears more yellow or golden, it means you have a warm undertone. For a neutral undertone, you’ve got a mix of both pink and yellow tones. Knowing your undertone will help you choose makeup that flatters and enhances your natural complexion.

Find a Brand That Certifies Inclusivity

Many makeup brands pride themselves on inclusivity and offer a wide range of shades. Before shopping for makeup products, investigate whether the brand pledges to cater to diverse skin tones. Keep an eye out for certifications like PETA and Leaping Bunny, which signify the brand’s cruelty-free practices.

Invest in Quality Foundation

Foundation is the base of your makeup routine, and finding the perfect shade can be a game-changer. Look for a formula that offers a range of shades, with undertones that complement your skin. Matte foundations work best on oily skin, while dewy formulations are suitable for dry skin. When shopping, always test the color swatches and try foundation samples at home to ensure that it matches your skin tone.

Embrace Bold Colors

It’s a common misconception that bold colors don’t work on darker skin tones. Embracing bold lip colors, eyeliners, and shadows can enhance your natural beauty. With dark skin tones, jewel tones, bright reds, and deep purples complement the rich melanin. Experiment with different shades to find the ones that work best for your skin tone.

Highlight Your Features

Highlighting is a great way to accentuate your best features. When looking for a highlighter, choose shades with warm undertones that will show up on the skin. Gold, bronze, and peach shades work well on darker skin tones. Apply the highlighter on the high points of the face – the cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid’s bow.

Final Thoughts

Finding makeup products for dark skin tones can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and research, it’s possible to find the perfect shades! Start by understanding your skin tone and undertone, and shop from brands that prioritize inclusivity. Invest in quality products like foundation and experiment with bold colors to enhance your natural beauty. Lastly, highlight your best features to achieve a flawless look that complements your skin tone.