Here we will break down the best colours for different skin tones and undertones since finding the perfect colours for your skin tone can make a huge difference in your overall appearance. The right shades can brighten your complexion, make your eyes pop, and even make you look healthier and more radiant.
Understanding skin tones/undertones (The Fitzpatrick scale)
The Fitzpatrick scale classifies skin into 6 types based on melanin levels and reaction to sun exposure:
Type 1
- Skin tone - Very Fair (Ivory)
- Sun reaction - Always burns, never tans
- Undertones - Cool (pink/red)
Type 2
- Skin tone - Fair (Light Beige)
- Sun reaction - Burns easily, tans minimally
- Undertones - Cool to neutral
Type 3
- Skin tone - Medium (Golden/Beige)
- Sun reaction - Sometimes burns, tans gradually
- Undertones - Warm or neutral
Type 4
- Skin tones - Olive/Light Brown
- Sun reaction - Rarely burns, tans easily
- Undertones - Warm or neutral
Type 5
- Skin tone - Brown (Deep Tan)
- Sun reaction - Very rarely burns, tans deeply
- Undertones - Warm
Type 6
- Skin tone - Deep Brown/Black
- Sun reaction - Never burns, always tans
- Warm to cool (varies)
Best Colours for Each Fitzpatrick Type
Type 1
If you have type 1 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
You are also going to want to avoid:
Type 2
If you have type 2 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
And you are going to want to avoid:
- Neon brights (overpower fair skin).
Type 3
If you have type 3 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
And you are going to want to avoid:
Type 4
If you have type 4 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
And you are going to want to avoid:
Type 5
If you have type 3 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
And you are going to want to avoid:
Type 6
If you have type 3 skin tone, the best colours are going to be:
- Jewel tones (ruby, royal purple, cobalt)
And you are going to want to avoid: