Hey there, beauty enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for that perfect foundation shade that feels like it was made just for you? Well, you might have just landed in the right place! Let's dive deep into the world of Maybelline Foundation Shade 120. We're going to explore everything you need to know to decide if this is the one for your skin.

Understanding Maybelline Foundation Shade 120

So, what's the deal with Maybelline Foundation Shade 120? This particular shade is often described as a classic ivory or nude. It typically suits those with light to medium skin tones with neutral undertones. But before you jump the gun and add it to your cart, let's break down why understanding your skin tone and undertone is crucial.

Skin Tone vs. Undertone:

• Skin Tone: This is the surface color of your skin. It can range from fair to deep. Your skin tone can change depending on sun exposure, skincare products, and even the seasons.
• Undertone: This is the subtle hue beneath the surface of your skin. It's generally classified as warm, cool, or neutral. Knowing your undertone is essential for finding a foundation that blends seamlessly and looks natural.

Why Undertones Matter:

Imagine wearing a foundation that's too yellow when you have cool undertones – you might end up looking a bit sallow or orange-tinged. Similarly, if you have warm undertones and choose a foundation that's too pink, your skin might look unnaturally flushed. Finding a foundation that complements your undertone ensures a flawless, natural-looking finish. It's like the secret ingredient to a perfect makeup recipe!

Who is Shade 120 For?

Maybelline Foundation Shade 120 is generally a great fit for people with light to medium skin tones who have neutral undertones. If you find that most foundations pull too pink or too yellow on your skin, you likely have neutral undertones. This shade aims to balance those tones, offering a natural, skin-like finish. However, remember that everyone's skin is unique! What works for one person might not work for another. Always test the shade on your skin before committing.

How to Determine If Shade 120 Is Right for You

Alright, guys, let's get practical! How do you actually figure out if Maybelline Foundation Shade 120 is your perfect match? Here are some tried-and-true methods to help you out:

1. The Swatch Test:

• Where to Swatch: The best place to swatch foundation is on your jawline. This area allows you to see how well the shade blends with both your face and neck. Apply a small amount of the foundation and blend it out.
• Natural Light is Key: Check the blended foundation in natural light. Artificial light can be deceiving and might make the shade appear different than it actually is. Natural light will give you the most accurate representation of how the foundation looks on your skin.
• Observe and Evaluate: Does the foundation disappear into your skin? Does it look too pink, too yellow, or too ashy? If it blends seamlessly and looks like your skin but better, you might have a winner!

2. Know Your Undertones:

• The White Shirt Test: Hold a white shirt or a piece of white paper up to your face in natural light. If your skin looks pinkish or rosy, you likely have cool undertones. If your skin appears more yellow or golden, you probably have warm undertones. If you can't discern either pink or yellow, you likely have neutral undertones.
• The Jewelry Test: Consider what kind of jewelry looks best on your skin. If gold jewelry makes your skin glow, you likely have warm undertones. If silver jewelry is more flattering, you probably have cool undertones. If both gold and silver look equally good, you might have neutral undertones.
• Vein Check: Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones. If they look green, you probably have warm undertones. If you can't easily tell if they're blue or green, you might have neutral undertones.

3. Compare to Other Foundations:

• Current Matches: Think about foundations that have worked well for you in the past. What were the shade names and numbers? Use these as a reference point when trying out Maybelline Foundation Shade 120. You can often find online shade-matching tools that compare shades across different brands.
• Online Resources: Websites like Findation.com and Temptalia.com allow you to enter your current foundation shade and find potential matches in other brands and formulas. These tools can be incredibly helpful in narrowing down your options.

4. Consider the Season:

• Seasonal Changes: Your skin tone can change throughout the year depending on sun exposure. You might need a lighter shade in the winter when you're less tan and a slightly darker shade in the summer. Keep this in mind when selecting your foundation shade.
• Adjusting Shades: Don't be afraid to mix shades to create your perfect custom blend. If Shade 120 is a bit too light, you can mix it with a slightly darker shade. If it's too dark, you can mix it with a lighter shade. Experiment and find what works best for you!

Maybelline Foundations That Offer Shade 120

Maybelline offers a variety of foundations that include shade 120. Here are a few popular ones you might want to check out:

1. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation: This foundation is a cult favorite for its ability to control oil and minimize the appearance of pores. It provides a natural-looking matte finish that lasts all day. If you have oily or combination skin, this might be a great option for you.
2. Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation: If you have dry skin, this foundation might be more your speed. It provides hydration and gives your skin a dewy, radiant finish. It's perfect for creating a healthy, glowing complexion.
3. Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage Foundation: Looking for a foundation that will stay put all day? This one's for you! It provides full coverage that lasts up to 24 hours and is resistant to sweat, heat, and humidity. It's a great choice for special events or long days when you need your makeup to stay flawless.

Pro Tip: When trying out a new foundation, always start with a well-prepped base. Cleanse, moisturize, and prime your skin before applying foundation. This will help the foundation apply smoothly and last longer.

Tips for Applying Foundation Like a Pro

Okay, so you've found your perfect shade – congrats! But the journey doesn't end there. How you apply your foundation can make a huge difference in the final result. Here are some tips to help you achieve a flawless finish:

• Choose the Right Tools:
  • Brushes: Foundation brushes come in various shapes and sizes. Flat foundation brushes are great for building coverage, while buffing brushes are ideal for creating a seamless, airbrushed finish. Experiment and see which type of brush you prefer.
  • Sponges: Makeup sponges, like the Beautyblender, are perfect for creating a natural, dewy finish. Wet the sponge before use to prevent it from absorbing too much product.
  • Fingers: Yes, you can even use your fingers to apply foundation! The warmth of your fingers can help melt the product into your skin for a natural look.
• Start with a Small Amount: It's always better to start with a small amount of foundation and build up coverage as needed. Applying too much foundation can make your makeup look cakey and unnatural.
• Blend, Blend, Blend: Blending is key to a flawless finish. Make sure to blend the foundation seamlessly into your hairline, jawline, and around your ears. Use light, circular motions to buff the product into your skin.
• Set with Powder: If you have oily skin, setting your foundation with a translucent powder can help control shine and prolong wear. Use a large, fluffy brush to lightly dust the powder over your face.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right shade and application techniques, it's easy to make mistakes when it comes to foundation. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not prepping your skin: Skipping skincare before makeup can lead to a patchy, uneven finish. Always cleanse, moisturize, and prime your skin before applying foundation.
• Using the wrong formula: Using a foundation that's not suited for your skin type can exacerbate issues like dryness or oiliness. Choose a formula that's designed for your skin type.
• Applying too much product: As mentioned earlier, applying too much foundation can make your makeup look cakey and unnatural. Start with a small amount and build up coverage as needed.
• Forgetting to blend: Neglecting to blend your foundation properly can result in harsh lines and an uneven finish. Take the time to blend the product seamlessly into your skin.
• Not setting your makeup: Skipping setting powder can cause your foundation to slip and slide throughout the day, especially if you have oily skin. Set your makeup with a translucent powder to prolong wear.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect foundation shade can feel like a daunting task, but with a little knowledge and experimentation, you can find your holy grail! Maybelline Foundation Shade 120 is a great option for those with light to medium skin tones and neutral undertones. Remember to consider your skin type, undertone, and the season when selecting your foundation shade. And don't be afraid to mix shades or try different application techniques to achieve your desired look. Happy blending, guys!