Image of a range of colour samples

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Do an At-Home Color Analysis

Understanding which colors complement your natural skin tone can make a significant difference in how you look and feel. Conducting a color analysis at home can help you identify your best colors for clothing, makeup, and even nail polish. Follow these steps to perform a thorough at-home color analysis:

Image of different coloured cloth samples to be used for colour analysis.

1. Gather Your Supplies:

  • A full-length mirror with good lighting.
  • Several pieces of white fabric or clothing (like a white towel or shirt).
  • Several pieces of black fabric or clothing.
  • Various colored fabric swatches or clothing items in different colors (if available).
  • Natural light is ideal, so choose a well-lit room for accurate results.

2. Determine Your Skin Tone:

  • Stand in front of the mirror and observe the undertones of your skin. Skin tones generally fall into one of three categories:
    • Cool Undertones: Your skin has hints of blue, pink, or violet.
    • Warm Undertones: Your skin has hints of yellow, peach, or golden.
    • Neutral Undertones: Your skin doesn’t lean strongly towards either warm or cool tones, or you have a mix of both.

3. Test with White and Black:

  • Hold the white fabric near your face in natural light. Notice how your skin appears in comparison to the white fabric.
    • Cool Undertones: Your skin may appear brighter, with a slight blue or pinkish hue.
    • Warm Undertones: Your skin may appear more radiant or golden against the white fabric.
  • Repeat the process with the black fabric.
    • Cool Undertones: Your skin may appear dull or ashy against black fabric.
    • Warm Undertones: Your skin may appear vibrant and healthy against black fabric.

4. Test with Colored Fabrics:

  • Select colored fabric swatches or clothing items in different colors.
  • Hold each fabric or item near your face, observing how the color affects your complexion.
  • Note which colors make your skin appear radiant, even-toned, and vibrant. These are likely your best colors.
  • Avoid colors that make your skin look sallow, washed-out, or overly contrasting.

5. Identify Your Best Colors:

  • Based on your observations:
    • Cool Undertones: Your best colors generally include jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, and rich purples. Pastels and icy shades also complement cool undertones.
    • Warm Undertones: Your best colors typically include earth tones like warm reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. Rich, warm shades like coral and olive green also enhance warm undertones.
    • Neutral Undertones: You may find that both warm and cool colors suit you. Experiment with a variety of shades to find your perfect balance.
Diagram of suitable colours for each skin tone category.

6. Test Makeup and Accessories:

  • Apply makeup in colors that complement your skin tone based on your analysis.
  • Experiment with accessories (like scarves or jewelry) in your best colors to see how they enhance your overall appearance.

7. Document Your Findings:

  • Keep a list of your best colors for future reference when shopping for clothing, makeup, and nail polish.

8. Consult Online Resources (Optional):

  • Use online color analysis tools or guides to validate your findings or gain further insights into your color palette.
Image of person getting their colour analysis completed. Left side of the image is person with muted cloths draped over them. Right side of the image is person with bright cloths draped over time. This image shows a comparison of muted versus bright colour palettes on this individual.

Performing an at-home color analysis can empower you to make informed choices about your wardrobe and beauty routine, ensuring that you always look your best. Embrace your unique color palette and enjoy the confidence that comes with wearing colors that complement your natural features.

Shop for your perfect nail colour palette here at NAILSAMI. Happy color analyzing!

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