NARS, a department-store foundation loved worldwide. In particular, “Natural Radiant Long Wear Foundation” is popular for its rich shade range and natural glow.
But with so many shades, many wonder, “Which shade suits me?” In this article, we clearly explain how to choose your NARS foundation shade, with how to judge your skin tone. Use it as a reference for foolproof shade selection.
How to Read NARS Foundation Shade Numbers
NARS foundations are offered by number and color name. Basically, smaller numbers are lighter, larger ones darker. The color name includes information on skin “brightness” and “undertone” (yellow, pink, neutral).
To choose your shade, it’s important to grasp two things: ① brightness and ② undertone.
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Find with the Cosme Mannequin →Step 1: Grasp Your Skin’s Brightness
First, check your skin’s brightness.
- Brighter skin: Fair and doesn’t tan easily
- Standard skin: Average brightness
- Healthy skin: Naturally deeper to tanned skin
Many Japanese people fall in the light to medium range.
Step 2: Determine Your Undertone
Next, check the undertone beneath your skin.
| Undertone | Trait | Wrist veins |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Yellow-leaning skin | Look greenish |
| Pink (red) | Red/blue-leaning skin | Look bluish |
| Neutral | In between | Hard to say |
NARS offers yellow, pink, and neutral families, so you can choose for your undertone. Japanese people tend to suit the yellow to neutral range.
Step 3: Test on the Jawline
Once you’ve chosen a shade, always apply a little on the jawline (face-neck border) to check.
- The right shade blends naturally with no difference between face and neck
- Too bright makes only the face look lifted
- Consulting a store tester or a BA (beauty advisor) is also reliable
Foolproof Shade-Choosing Tips
- Match your neck color: Choosing a shade close to your neck rather than face creates cohesion
- Check in natural light: Not just store lighting—check in natural light if possible
- If unsure, go darker: A slightly darker shade blends more naturally than too bright
- Consult a BA: Make use of department-store counseling
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Find with the Cosme Mannequin →Summary
The foolproof way to choose your NARS foundation shade is the 3 steps: ① brightness ② undertone ③ check on the jawline.
Japanese people tend to suit light-to-medium brightness and yellow-to-neutral undertones. Ultimately, always test on the jawline and choose a shade with no difference between face and neck. Since department stores offer BA consultations, use the counseling if unsure and get beautiful, glowing skin with the shade that suits you.