Are You A Cool, Warm or Neutral Undertone?

Finding your perfect foundation shade can feel like a guessing game—until you understand your skin's undertone. While your skin tone may change throughout the year, your undertone stays the same, making it one of the most important factors when choosing makeup.

Knowing whether you have cool, warm or neutral undertones doesn't just make foundation shopping easier. It can also help you choose blush, bronzer, concealer and even lipstick shades that naturally brighten your complexion.

Let's break it down so you can confidently shop for makeup that truly suits your skin.

What Are Undertones?

Your undertone is the subtle colour that sits beneath the surface of your skin. Unlike your skin tone, which can become lighter or darker depending on the season, your undertone remains consistent.

There are three main undertone categories:

• Cool undertones – Pink, red or blue hues beneath the skin.
• Warm undertones – Golden, peach or yellow hues.
• Neutral undertones – A balanced combination of both cool and warm tones.

Once you know your undertone, choosing flattering makeup becomes significantly easier.

How to Identify Your Undertone

There are several simple ways to determine your undertone at home.

Look at your veins

Blue or purple veins often indicate cool undertones, while green veins usually suggest warm undertones. If it's difficult to tell the difference, you may have neutral undertones.

Try on jewellery

If silver jewellery flatters your complexion most, you're likely cool toned. Gold tends to complement warmer undertones, while neutral undertones often suit both equally well.

Test foundation correctly

Always test foundation along your jawline rather than your hand. This helps you find a shade that blends seamlessly between your face and neck.

Explore our collection of vegan foundation to find shades suited to a wide variety of undertones.

Choosing the Right Makeup

Once you've identified your undertone, selecting the rest of your makeup becomes much more straightforward.

Start with your complexion by browsing our range of buy face makeup and pair it with a cruelty free concealer that complements your foundation rather than appearing lighter or darker.

Add warmth and dimension using products from our bronze blush highlights collection, and apply everything seamlessly using professional makeup brush Australia favourites.

If you're looking for professional-quality complexion products, our RCMA makeup collection offers beautifully formulated options loved by makeup artists worldwide.

Build a Routine That Works for You

Understanding your undertone is just one part of creating an effortless makeup routine.

Choosing shades that naturally complement your skin allows you to wear less product while still looking polished and radiant.

At the end of the day, remember to thoroughly cleanse your skin using a gentle makeup remover to keep your complexion healthy and ready for tomorrow.

If you love fresh, natural beauty, our guide to Nail the Makeup No Makeup Trend shares expert tips for achieving radiant everyday makeup.

New to makeup? Don't miss our beginner-friendly guide to 5 Basic Makeup Tips to build confidence with your everyday routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my undertone the same as my skin tone?

No. Your skin tone refers to how fair or deep your complexion is, while your undertone is the subtle colour beneath the surface that remains relatively constant.

Can I have a neutral undertone?

Absolutely. Neutral undertones are very common and often suit both warm and cool makeup shades.

Why does my foundation look orange?

Usually because the undertone isn't the right match—not necessarily because the shade is too dark.

Can my undertone change?

Your skin tone may change with tanning or seasonal differences, but your undertone generally remains the same throughout your life.

Do I need different makeup for each season?

You may need a slightly lighter or deeper foundation depending on your skin tone throughout the year, but your undertone should remain consistent when choosing products.

Understanding Your Undertone Changes Everything

Once you know whether you're cool, warm or neutral, makeup shopping becomes much less overwhelming.

You'll spend less time second-guessing foundation shades and more time enjoying products that naturally enhance your complexion.

Sometimes, the secret to great makeup isn't buying more—it's simply choosing the right colours for you.