I review a ton of foundations on my YouTube channel. So here’s a handy list of all of my foundation shade matches in one spot for all of you Mac nc25 people out there!
To see my CURRENT HOLY GRAIL FOUNDATIONS, GO HERE!
I update my nc25 foundation shade list regularly since I review both high end and drugstore foundations regularly and report on top foundations pretty often.
Perhaps this also will help those of you Mac NC25 people out there who’ve stumbled upon this page but have never seen my YouTube channel at all but have simply been trying to find your foundation shade.
What Does NC25 Mean Anyway?
For those of you who don’t follow Mac foundation shades and don’t know what the heck NC25 foundation shades are, Mac shades have long been the benchmark for many who are trying to find their foundation shades. Mac was one of the first brands to have an extensive shade range and to be well versed in shade matching.
My Skin Tone
My skin tone is light/medium toned with warm, yellow undertones. So I’m Mac nc25 most of the year and around Mac nc30 in the summertime when I get a slight tan.
Finding the right foundation shade in person is difficult. It’s even harder when shopping and researching online. Without doing extensive research, chances are that you’ll end up with the wrong shade.
Through the years I’ve tried to find my foundation shade by using a foundation match chart, a google search, or a foundation shade finder. I’ve always found a Mac foundation shade finder helpful, so I hope you find this useful.
Looking for Concealer Matching Too?
Since I’m asked for my concealer matches so often, I recently added a concealer match list to my blog. If you’ve been struggling to find your perfect concealer shade to cover those pesky under-eye circles, check it out!
Find Your Foundation Shade
If you’re an NC25 (or NC30 in the summer) or basically have light to medium skin tone with warm, yellow undertones, this should be a good start to helping you find your foundation shade equivalents.
Disclaimer #1
Note that just because our Mac shade (or another shade of foundation) is a match, there could be some variation with what I wear and what you might wear. Everyone is different. Undertones, overtones, minuscule skin tone differences based on genetics or the time of year…they all make a difference in how a shade looks on my skin vs your skin and on your skin vs someone else’s skin. This reference is meant to be a tool to help guide you and make your search easier. It is not a definitive guide and cannot possibly be perfect for everyone. But it can certainly help narrow things down and has been dead on for many people.
Disclaimer #2
I don’t go by swatches when I say a foundation is a match. I go by what these foundations look like once they’ve settled onto the skin. Going by swatches is a quick way to fail at foundation matching. Some of these will swatch much darker/lighter than others on this list. But once applied, the shades meld into the skin and are wonderful matches.
On occasion, a particular shade of foundation must be chosen because it is the best match out of several and works well on my skin tone in comparison to the alternative lighter and deeper shades available. I can only work with the shades the brand makes.
The Matches
Since I do Foundation Road Tests on my YouTube Channel regularly, I’ve also added the links to my foundation reviews where applicable. Happy matching!
A/B
- Anastasia Luminous Foundation – 290C (a bit too dark & yellow) *review here*
- Bare Minerals BarePro Liquid Foundation – #15 Sandalwood *review here*
- BareMinerals Barepro 16hr Skin-Perfecting Powder Foundation – Light 25 Warm *review here*
- Bare Minerals BarePro Performance Wear Powder Foundation – 07 Warm Light *review here*
- Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue – Buttercream
- Bare Minerals Matte Foundation – Golden Beige
- Beautyblender Bounce Always On Radiant Skin Tint – medium 3 *review here*
- Beautyblender Bounce Liquid Whip Long Wear Foundation – 2.30W *review here*
- Becca Ultimate Coverage – Buttercup *mini review here*
- Benefit Hello Happy Flawless Brightening Foundation – 4
- Benefit Hello Happy Velvet Powder Foundation – 4 *review here*
- Bite Beauty Changemaker – M55 *review here*
- Bobbi Brown Intensive Serum Foundation – Warm Beige *review here*
- Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Fluid Powder Foundation (being discontinued so shades are limited. You can also find some shades HERE) – Natural OR mix Warm Beige + Natural Tan *review here*
- Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation – W048 *review here*
C/D
- Caliray Freedreaming Clean Blurring Skin Tint – The 6 *review here*
- Catrice Clean ID Hydro BB Cream – Light Warm
- Catrice Tru Skin Hydrating Foundation – 20 Warm Beige *review here*
- Chanel Les Beiges Water Fresh Complexion Touch – B30 *review here*
- Chanel Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint – Medium *review here*
- Chanel N°1 de Chanel Revitalizing Foundation – B30 *review here*
- Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet – B30 *review here*
- Chanel Ultra Le Teint – B30 *review here*
- Chantecaille Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation – Nude
- Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless – 6 Neutral *review here*
- Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation – 4N – *review here*
- Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder – 6
- Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation – 6 *review here*
- Clinique Acne Solutions BB Cream – Light Medium
- Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation – WN38 Stone *review here*
- CoverFx Power Play – G30
- Covergirl Clean Matte BB Cream – 530 *review here* (my 1st one guys…I’m a little stiff in front of the camera!)
- Covergirl Outlast Extreme Full Coverage Liquid Foundation – 840 Natural Beige
- Covergirl TruBlend Matte Made – M10 *review here*
- Covergirl Vitalist Healthy Elixir – (discontinued) 725 *review here*
- Danessa Myricks Vision Cream Cover – N04 *review here*
- Dior Airflash Spray Foundation – 300 *review here*
- Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation – 2.5N most of the year : 2N (winter) *review here*
- Dior Forever Glow – 2.5N *review here*
- Dior Forever Matte – 2.5N *review here*
- Dior Forever Natural Nude – 2.5N *review here*
- Dr Jart Premium BB Beauty Balm REFORMULATED – Lt Med-Med *review here*
E/F
- e.l.f. Camo CC Cream – Light 280N (a bit dark and peachy) *review here*
- elf Camo Powder Foundation – Light 240W (very yellow) *review here*
- Erborian BB Creme – Claire (runs a little neutral and light)
- Essence 16h Cover & Last Powder Foundation – 5 classic vanilla (a bit light) *review here*
- Essence My Skin Perfector Tinted Primer – 30 Med Beige *review here*
- Essence Pretty Natural – 70 Warm Cashew *review here*
- Estee Lauder Double Wear – 2W1 Dawn : 2W2 Rattan (summer) *how to apply without looking cakey*
- Estee Lauder Double Wear Light – 2W1 Dawn *review here* *comparison of ELDW & ELDW Light* *alternatives here*
- Estee Lauder Double Wear Powder Foundation – 2W1 Dawn *review here*
- Estee Lauder Double Wear Sheer Foundation – 2W1 Dawn *review here*
- Estee Lauder Futurist – 2W1 Dawn
- Fenty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint – 7
- Fenty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation – 230 *review here*
- Flower Beauty Get Real Serum Foundation – warm beige *review here*
- Flower Beauty Light Illusion – Warm Beige *mini review here*
G/H
- Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream Oily/Combo Skin – Light/Medium
- Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk – 5.2
- Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Powder Foundation – 4 *review here*
- Giorgio Armani Power Fabric REFORMULATED – 5.74 *review here*
- Givenchy Prism Libre Skin Caring Matte Foundation – 3-W245 *review here*
- Gucci Éternité De Beauté 24 Hour Full Coverage Luminous Matte Finish Foundation – 220W (need a more neutral undertone) *review coming soon*
- Gucci Natural Finish Fluid Foundation – 260W is too dark *review here*
- Guerlain Lingerie de Peau – 02W *review here*
- Guerlain Lingerie de Peau Aqua Nude – 03W (a tad too yellow but workable) *review here*
- Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation – 160 *review here*
- Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation – 6 (too olive and dark) *review here*
- Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint – Nude *review here*
- Hourglass Vanish Liquid Foundation – Ivory *review here*
- Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick – Buff *review here*
- Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Luminous Matte Foundation – 240N Toasted Coconut
- Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Skin Finish Buildable Coverage Foundation Stick – 240N Toasted Coconut *review here*
I/J
- Iconic London Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint Neutral Light *review here*
- Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint – Bom Bom *review here*
- It Cosmetics Bye Bye Lines Foundation – Medium *review here*
- It Cosmetics CC+ Airbrush Perfecting Powder – Medium *review here*
- IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation + Glow Serum – Light Medium *review here*
- It Cosmetics Confidence In A Foundation – 210 *review here*
- It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream – Medium *review here*
- It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream MATTE – Medium *review here*
- It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare – 32 Medium Warm *review here*
- Jane Iredale Glow Time Pro BB Cream – 14 (VERY yellow) *review here*
- Josie Maran Vibrancy – RG30 Mystical
- Jouer Essential High Coverage Creme Foundation – Fawn *review here*
K/L
- Kevyn Aucoin Foundation Balm – EF05 *review here*
- Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation – 123 *review here*
- Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation – 190 *review here*
- KVD Beauty Good Apple Full-Coverage Transfer-Proof Vegan Serum Foundation – Medium 027 (TOO LIGHT!) *review coming soon*
- La Mer Foundation – Linen *review here*
- Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear 24 Hour Longwear Foundation – 320 is fine in winter but too light in summer *review here*
- Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick – 250 *review here*
- Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear 5-In-1 Foundation Stick (NEW VERSION) – 320 *review here*
- Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation – 335W shown is too warm / 310N would probably be better *review here*
- Laura Mercier Flawless Fusion – 2W1 Macadamia *review here*
- Laura Mercier Flawless Lumière Radiance-Perfecting Foundation – Macadamia (a bit light. Go a shade deeper if possible) *review here*
- Laura Mercier Real Flawless Weightless Perfecting Foundation – 2W2 Warm Linen (a bit yellow – probably to with cashew for a more neutral undertone) *review coming soon*
- Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder – 05 / 06 (summer) *review here*
- Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Light Revealer Natural Skin Illuminator – Sand (summer shade) *review here*
- Lawless Woke Up Like This – Sonoran (slightly too yellow) *review here*
- The Lip Bar Just A Tint 3-in-1 – My Fair Lady *review here*
- Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Foundation – 11 *review here*
- Loreal Age Perfect 4-in-1 Tinted Face Balm – 20 Light *review here*
- Loreal Infallible 24 Hour Foundation In a Powder – 130 True Beige *review here*
- Loreal Infallible Fresh Wear – 445 Vanilla *review here*
- Loreal Lumi Cushion – W3
- L’Oréal Skin Paradise Water Infused Tinted Moisturizer – Light 03 (this is NOT a shade match) *review here*
- Loreal True Match – W4 (this shade is deeper with the reformulated version) *review here*
- L’Oreal True Nude Serum – 3-4 *review here*
M/N
- MAC – NC25 : NC30 summer
- MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural – Medium Plus
- MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation – NC25 most of the year / NC30 in summer *review here*
- MAC Studio Fix Soft Matte Foundation Stick – NC25 (in fall/winter) *review here*
- Make Up For Ever HD Skin – 2N22 *review here*
- MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Matte Velvet Undetectable Longwear Blurring Powder Foundation – 2N22 (this is darker and more yellow than 2n22 has been in the past) *review coming soon*
- MAKEUP BY MARIO SurrealSkin 8N *review here*
- Makeup Revolution IRL Filter Longwear Foundation – F6 (too light) *review here*
- Mally Stress Less Performance Foundation – Beige *review coming soon*
- Marc Jacobs Extra Shot Caffeine Concealer and Foundation – Light 180 *review here*
- Marc Jacobs Shameless – Y270
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Instant Perfector 4-In-1 Glow Makeup – *review here*
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Perfector 4-In-1 Whipped Matte Makeup – 02 Light Medium (slightly too deep) *review here*
- Maybelline Dream Cushion – 30 *review here*
- Maybelline Dream Urban Cover – 128 *review here*
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation – 128 *worn here*
- Maybelline SuperStay – 120 *review here*
- Maybelline Super Stay Hybrid Powder-Foundation 128 (darker & warmer than I like) *review here*
- Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage Powder Foundation – 220 Natural Beige *review here*
- Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation Concealer – 03 *review here*
- Milani Conceal + Perfect Shine Proof Powder – 02 Nude *review here*
- Milk Makeup Flex Foundation Stick – Golden Nude *review here*
- Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream – 23 (very gray toned) *review here*
- MUFE Matte Velvet – 40 Natural Beige
- MUFE Matte Velvet Skin Blurring Powder Foundation – Y305 *review here*
- NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation – Punjab *review here*
- NARS Natural Radiant Longwear – Fiji *review here*
- NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer – Groenland / Mykonos (summer)
- NARS Sheer Glow – Fiji / Punjab (summer shade)
- NARS Soft Matte Complete – Santa Fe *review here*
- Neutrogena Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream – 5.0 Fawn (this is too deep for me) *review here*
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint – 60 *review here*
- No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced All in One Foundation – Med. Beige *review here*
- No 7 Stay Perfect – Warm Beige *mini review here*
- NYX Bare With Me – Beige Camel *review here*
- NYX Bare With Me Blur Skin Tint 08 (these run much darker & more yellow than described. This is not a match!) *review here*
- NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop – Natural *review here*
O-Q
- ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr Turn Up the Base Beauty Blur Balm – Light 3 *review here*
- Pacifica Kind Tint Tinted Serum – 17 *review here*
- Pat McGrath Skin Fetish – 10 Light Medium *review here*
- Patrick Ta Major Skin Crème Foundation and Finishing Powder Duo Light 2 *review here*
- Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation – MW2
- PUR 4-in-1 Love Your Selfie – MG3 *review here*
- PUR 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation – Linen *review here*
R/S
- Rare Beauty Foundation – 210N *review here* & *here*
- Revlon Candid – 300
- Revlon ColorStay Foundation – 240 Medium Beige *review here*
- Revlon ColorStay Light Cover – 240 Medium Beige *review here*
- RMS Beauty ReEvolve Foundation – 22 *review here*
- Rose Inc Skin Enhance Luminous Skin Tint – 050 *review here*
- Saie Glowy Super Skin Lightweight Hydrobounce Serum Foundation – 10 *review coming soon*
- Sephora Best Skin Ever – 25N *review here*
- Sephora Matte Perfection tinted Moisturizer – 07 Linen *review here*
- Sheglam Complexion Pro Matte Foundation – Warm Vanilla *review here*
- Shiseido Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation – Golden 3 *review here* (DISCONTINUED)
- Shiseido Synchro Skin Self Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation – 240 Quartz *review here*
- Shiseido Synchro Skin Self Refreshing Foundation – Pine *review here*
- Shiseido Synchro Skin Self Refreshing Tint – 225 Light Magnolia *review here*
- Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Hydration Foundation – 2.1 *review here*
- Stila Hide & Chic Fluid Foundation – mix Medium 2 + Medium 3 *review here*
- Stila Lingerie Souffle – 2.0 *demo here*
- Sunday Riley The Influencer – 170 (a little bit deep but works) *review here*
T/U
- Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation – Light Med Neutral
- Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation – Light Med Neutral *review here*
- Tarte Amazonian Clay Blurring Powder Foundation – 27S *review here*
- Tarte BB Cream Tinted Treatment sephora – Light
- Tarte Clay Stick Foundation – Medium Sand *review here*
- Tarte Double Duty Beauty Confidence Creamy Powder Foundation – (discontinued) Light Neutral
- Tarte Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Powder Foundation – Light Medium Sand *review here*
- Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation – Light Sand *review here*
- Tarte SEA Hydroflex – 25N Light Medium Neutral *review here*
- Tarte Shape Tape Cloud Coverage Cream – Light Medium Sand *review here*
- Thrive Causemetics CC Cream – Light Medium *review here* $10 off 1st purchase of $50+ plus FREE SHIPPING with that link
- Tom Ford Traceless Foundation Stick – Natural *review here*
- Too Faced Born This Way Foundation– Light Beige *review here*
- Too Faced Born This Way Matte – Natural Beige (summer only) I believe Light Beige would be best the rest of the year *review here*
- Too Faced Born This Way Powder Foundation – Sand is the best match I could find but it’s not a good match. *review here*
- Too Faced Cocoa Powder Foundation – (discontinued) Light/Medium *review here*
- Too Faced Peach Perfect Foundation – Light Beige *review here*
- Ulta Complexion Crush – Light Medium Neutral *speed review here*
- Urban Decay Hydromanic Glowy Tinted Hydrator Foundation – 40 Light Medium *review here*
- Urban Decay Naked Skin One and Done – Medium Light *review here*
- Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation – (discontinued) 4.0
V-Z
- Wander Beauty Wanderlust Powder Foundation – Medium *review here*
- Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick – Atelier III
- wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator Tinted Skin Veil – light-medium *review here*
- Wet n Wild Cushion Foundation – Nude Beige *demo here*
- Wunder2 Go Beyond Foundation – Light/Medium
- YSL All Hours – BD35 (probably closer to NC20…BD40 or BD45 would be better) *review here*
- YSL Nu Look Bare Tint Skin Tint Foundation – 8 (too dark and yellow) *review here*
I’m wearing in my videos but the site I linked it to in that video stopped carrying it, since I posted it! If you haven’t seen my updated skincare routine,
Just saw this post and it’s super helpful because I’m a similar color. If you haven’t already, try Jane Iredale Liquid Mineral Foundation in Warm Silk to add to the list.
Author
Thanks Judy!
I am NC 25 too. I wear TOO FACED born this way in the shade Vanilla for winter. Also I prefer the shade Lys Rose for the LANCOME TEINT IDOLE. Lisa Eldridge is NC 25 too and she has very good recommendations about shades.
I loved your post and I subscribed to your channel.
Greetings from Greece
I use Mac NC 20
So which shade for too faced born this way vanilla or procelain???
What a fantastic post! This is very important and useful information. I read a lot of blog posts and this kind of nice information from your blog is very few websites. I love these posts. The post carries very insightful information. I write about Profusion Cosmetics. If you want you can visit my website.
profusioncosmetics[dot]co[dot]uk
What a fantastic post! This is very important and useful information. I read a lot of blog posts and this kind of nice information from your blog is very few websites. I love these posts. The post carries very insightful information. I write about Profusion Cosmetics. If you want you can visit my website.
profusioncosmetics[dot]co[dot]uk
Hi Stephanie!!
I know this blog is SO old, but I was wondering if you’ve ever tried out http://www.matchmymakeup.com to help guide your matches?!
If you haven’t, you should definitely give it a go – it’s totally free and we would LOVE to hear your feedback!!
This is so helpful! Thank you so much for doing this..
I wear C4 in the winter and NC25 in the summer. The C shades usually refer to warm peach skin tones. Hope that helped 🌸
And the N indicates Neutral.
I really appreciate this list. I wear the same shades as you do, and it’s so convenient – especially for drugstore brands that you can’t try before you buy.
Also try a site called Matchmymakeup.com they do foundation shade matching recommendations across most brands.
Helpful place to start when buying online during lockdown.
Thank you for sharing the site.
maybe i should try this nc25. By the way love your youtube and instagram you are such an inspiration to me! keep going xoxo Pat
Hi Stephanie,
Could you please try dermacol and Suggest the shade. I use Mac NC25 too.
Regards,
Somya Sharma
We are the same exact shade in MAC and with other brands you’ve listed that I’ve used. Thank you for doing this. This has been helpful especially during quarantine for me. Love your blog and will be checking out your YouTube,
Thanks again and stay well! 🙂
I wear med in the it cosmetics cc cream but find it too dark, in channel velvet I’m B30 and in dior matt I’m N.25 what would you think i would be in mac studio fix xx
I use maybelline fit me liquid foundation in shade 115.
Which Shade in Mac studio fix foundation Should i buy
I use Maybelline liquid foundation shade 125
Which shade in Mac studio fix foundation should I buy
This is incredible! Thank you for doing this!:) i am also Light/Medium skin tone with yellow undertones and was just wondering if you know how to find a foundation match for Natasha Denona’s Foundation X+? I have looked all over her website and can’t even find shade names or color descriptions. I know it isn’t on your list of Foundations but thought maybe you could help. Thank you in advance:)
Try the Sephora App, they give swatches and descriptions. They also can shade match you.
This was incredible. Thank you for putting in the time to make such an incredible resource! I am so curious if these shades will work well for me too. Time to start sampling!
Depending on the time of year and how much time I spend outside, I range between NC15 and NC42. I’m currently closest to NC30. Do you know the equivalent of NC30 in Smashbox?
Thank you so much! This is such an awesome resource!
I wear MAC Studio Fix Powder Foundation in C3 but a lot of their other foundations don’t have the C colors. Do you think C3 is very close to NC25?
Unfortunately, probably not. I think the “C” in the powder foundation line means “Cool” undertones, and the “NC” in the Flawless Finish line is “Not Cool.”
Author
Cool in Mac means having very yellow undertones. NC has yellow undertones cut with some neutral. C3 is close but a tad bit more yellow. For example, they recommend C3 in Face & Body when you wear NC25-NC30 in other foundations, since they don’t carry NC in that foundation. I hope that helps!
It’s not so far off.
NC25 is light golden beige with golden undertones, for light to medium skin.
(NC = Neutral Cool)
C3 is Beige with neutral golden undertone for light to medium skin.
(C = Cool)
In MAC terms, Cool refers to yellow or golden.
Do you have a dupe for the discontinued Urban Decay Naked Skin? I love the thin texture, lasting power and the way it looks like my skin but better. I have tried Stay Naked and I do not like that one. Thanks!
I’m looking for a replacement for this foundation too. Closest I have found is MAC waterweight but it’s not a dupe.
Author
I also dislike the new version and hate that they discontinued the original! These two videos will probably help you the most. It was very skinlike and wore a long time. Dior probably comes the closest for me? https://youtu.be/dx9NFaJyDV0 and https://youtu.be/Q600BjJ1gWA
I good some on Amazon, just certain colors though
Hi would like to ask if have you tried fenty beauty hydrating foundation?if so what is your shade?
Author
I haven’t since I have oily/combo skin. Sorry!
NC25 DOES NOT match Maybelline Fit Me in 128. It could not be more far off, 128 is a lot more dark and yellow. Could you please do a side by side comparison before putting information on your blog? Thanks so much.
Author
Dear Anonymous, I review dozens upon dozens of foundations, have 88 listed on this page as a free resource for my readers and YouTube subscribers and am very familiar with my skin tone, undertone and what matches me and what doesn’t. I’ve used both the MAC and Maybelline foundations for years off and on. Swatches, or what’s in the bottle/pan, do not matter. It’s how they look once they’ve settled onto the skin and what they look like when you wear them. And on my skin tone (and many others, as I’ve been told by my viewers), both of the shades work beautifully.
This blog post is a supplement to the foundation reviews I do on YouTube where you can see the foundations worn on my skin. NC25 is not far off from 128 when it’s on the skin. Both match me beautifully. Here’s a video from two years ago when I have the Maybelline M&P in 128 on my skin, in wintertime when I’m at my palest, also when I’m MAC NC25: https://youtu.be/kTzWSGvTIvA I happen to be wearing MAC Studiofix powder foundation in my Instagram Story today. Again, perfect match for me this time of year.
I did this blog post as a helpful, free resource and guide for people wanting to know possible equivalent shade matches and for those that request my shades in various foundations. It’s not perfect because everyone is different. You may have slightly different undertones and lean more olive than I do, etc. or be a tad paler or deeper than I am, depending on the time of year as well. This post is based on the dozens upon dozens of foundations I review on a regular basis. But it’s ultimately up to the individual to determine if the shade will work for them personally. As this blog post is a supplement to my main platform, YouTube, it would be impossible for me to do a side by side comparison of every foundation I test, seeing as there are currently 88 foundations on this list and counting. My foundation reviews and top foundations videos on YouTube are done so you can see what the foundations look like on me. That’s why I have those videos linked here on the blog post next to the foundation where applicable.
I personally have noticed that the Maybelline Fit Me you have to test a swipe on your skin and walk around the store for 20 minutes. You will notice a dramatic changed in color from when you first put it on I wear Clinique Beyond Perfecting foundation and concealer in WN69 and Maybelline Fit Me Dewy in 235. Now you would think by looking at the bottles that no way that’s just wrong. But, again, you try them on your skin and wait for them to settle and dry and voila. They both match. You absolutely cannot go by the look of the bottle or even opening and looking at the color. You absolutely have to try it on your skin. I hope this helped in some way. I am light to medium Caucasian female over 40. I have warm undertones but a lot of foundations are way too yellow for me. I actually have olive undertones which, by just glancing at me you would not suspect. Until we go to the beach for the day and i come home deep dark brown and my friends are all burnt. Lol. I hope you see what I am saying. Somehow the olive undertones helps me not to burn. Plus growing up in Florida and as a child i was always outside, we didn’t have video games. Lol. Have fun exploring. Just remember, its just makeup, it washes off. ?
Try the fit me in 118. I am a NC25 as well… NC30 in summers and 128 is the perfect match when applied fresh (in summers of course)..
Fit me tends to oxidize..which might be the reason it appears darker..
Hey Steph, not a critic indeed I am thankful for your work. I am maybelline fit me 128(matte) in summer but NC25( mineral) looks dark on me (weird) as my neck has less tan/ discolouration then face it gives a masking look unless I cover beyond my outfit’s neck line( I expect my foundation to be fixing un even tone) NC20 however fits my winter skin( studio fix matte). I have dehydrated skin and being in India it cosmetics is not in my reach( can’t trust sellers on amazon). Can you suggest be something that has dewy finesse and fit my summer skin. I feel matte finesse foundations match my skin better but are not meant for my skin.
I am MAC NC25 in winter, closer to NC30 in summer, and Fit Me Matte and Poreless 128 is the shade I wear every day, regardless of the season. Perhaps you lean more neutral, or even cooler, than NC25?
Whoa, Anonymous NC25 from October 2, 2019! Don’t allow your frustration make you come across so rude! I am NC25 and the Fit Me Matte & Poreless in 128 is the perfect match for me. Foundations change on the skin, and sometimes the moisturizer, primer, and/or sunscreen you have underneath will shift the shade a little too, making it oxidize (rich moisturizers do this, for me), seem ashier (mineral sunscreen), or lightening the base while enhancing the undertone (gel primers). It’s all a matter of finding the right combination of products. Stephanie Marie’s shade suggestions have been usually spot on for me, and in the rare occurrence when they haven’t been, I make it “perfect” by trying different skin care underneath. I wish you luck!
Hi for nc25 Mac which Huda beauty foundation thanks
Author
Believe it or not, I haven’t tried it (for various reasons). I think I have a couple of samples here. I update this regularly, so anytime I have a new match, it will be listed! 🙂
Have you found a foundation that wears the same (or close) to Naked Skin? I’m so bummed it’s discontinued. It’s the only one I’ve found that does not accentuate my pores.
Author
Here are some options: https://youtu.be/Q2tTTBxy-ZY As well as Dior Backstage http://bit.ly/2Vh3zEg which is one of my FAVORITES!
Hello,
I am in my late 60”s and I loved Mac’s Mineralized Liquid Foundation (Ivory) as it gave me full coverage and made my skin look Dewey which I loved. Sadly, Mac no longer makes it and I do not like what they have replaced it with.
I am desperately looking for something similar. I am very pale and nothing I seem to try works.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Chris
Can you let me know your shade in makeup Revolution
Author
All of the foundations I’ve tried thus far are listed here. I update it regularly. When I try it, I’ll list it! ?
Can you let me know your shade in makeup Revolution?
Hi dear Stephanie
Thank you for this great list.my skin is NC25 and I have tried some of the foundations in your list and the shades you mentioned are exactly the shades that match my skin. I wanted to ask if you have tried Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define foundation? I have to order it online and I’m trying to find the best match
Hi Stephanie,
I’ve noticed that you’re 2 different shades in the Nars foundations. What is that?
I have the sheer glow in Punjab so was going to buy the same colour for the radiant longwear. We are the same matches and this chart helped me buy my hourglass stick foundation which was spot on so was wondering why the 2 different shades for Nars..
Thanks
Author
It says next to Punjab that it’s my summer shade. 🙂
Hi darling, could you please confirm which is the match for Fenty Foundation? I am a Mac NC25 like u.
Thanks,
Hi Stephanie unfortunately I do not have yellow undertones in my skin I think I am more of a neutral and pinkish tones. I have tried beige foundations before and I just look orange. I am light to medium but like to wear a shade darker because I like having more color. Do you have any suggestions on shades for someone with my skin tone?
Author
Hi Karrie! Unfortunately I don’t. These are my own matches that I’ve found match me based on all of my foundation tests and reviews and what matches me in daily use. I don’t have extensive knowledge of specific deeper, redder skin tone shades. Good luck to you!
The tears of failed foundations and wasted money are no more! Thank you!!! ???
Author
So glad it helps! Thank you!
I am SO glad that we have the same skin tone. Now, every time I buy a foundation I never have to go in a store with no make up on just to get a sample or swipe multiple shades across my bare face nor do I have to magically guess through the online photos which almost always never looks the same in person to find a shade match for me. Thank you for keeping this updated throughout your foundation road tests. Keep ’em coming!
Author
Thank you! Glad to have you here and glad it helps you!
Hi ?, nice recommendations & I really found my perfect shade accordingly….. thank you. Can you please tell me what would be the perfect match in Maybelline fit me dewy+smooth foundation for Maybelline fit me matte+poreless foundation shade-128?
Author
Hi! All the foundations I’ve tried are listed above. I don’t use dewy and smooth as my skin type is oily/combination, so I don’t have a match for that one.
Hi, I am nc25 in Mac but struggling to find the bare minerals powder foundation (original) in that shade range. Please let me know what shade could be a match .
Author
The Matte Foundation comes in the same shades as the original. I’m Golden Beige 13.
Medium Beige #12, might also be good. It’s the color that is supposed to be neutral, but leans yellowish, but not so much as golden beige which is only one shade apart from Golden Beige.
Thank you so much for the equivalent shades for nc25 Mac I am nc25 and this post help me a lot
I am always struggling to find my foundation color. It’s either too dark, too grey or to orangey.
I am going to subscribe to your channel.
Thank you again.
Hi, can you confirm you’re a 4.0 in UD Naked Skin? I’m the same shade as you in other foundations, so picked this up in a 4.0 today and it looks super dark. Not sure why they don’t have a neutral in the 4’s… 3.25 was too light for me.
Actually this particular foundation gets oxidized
I’m Nc25 and for naked I believe I’ve used 3 in the past.
4 is too dark.
Author
4.0 has always worked well for me. 3.25 works if I’m in the dead of winter and at my lightest. But year round 4.0 is my best match and not too dark for me and does not oxidize on me.
This is wonderful ! Please could you post your fenty foundation shade ?
Can you help with a match in the infailable when I wear EL DW in Rattan?
Try 140 Golden Beige. I’m also NC25 and I alternate it with Loreal Infallible pro matte
Can you tell the difference in between Warm nude and light beige in too faced born this way foundation??? are they same ???
Author
Warm nude is a bit lighter than light beige if it’s the same as Peach Perfect foundation.
Thank you so much for this list!!! I struggle so much with finding shades that match me, and I always go off of my NC25 since that’s my closest match! I will definitely be subscribing to your YouTube channel! ?
Hi Stephanie, thanks for this list. I am NC25 as well and I use most of your foundation shades. It is very helpful. I hav a question regarding Charlotte Tilbury foundations. You and I both are shade 6 in the Magic foundation but shade 3 in the Light Wonder foundation. According to the foundation chart posted on Charlott’s website, both foundations should be shade 6.
Elle Leary stated that she is shade 5 and she is more fair than you and I are. Was this posting incorrect? Is there a reason that you listed Charlotte Tilbury Light Foundation shade 3?
Author
Hi Silvia! Those are the two shades I have and they both work for my skin. When swatched next to each other on the hand and on my face, they’re not that far off from each other…so much so that it’s odd that there are several shades in between. I’d go by her chart as 3 is what was sent to me from Charlotte Tilbury and although it worked fine, a shade or two deeper may work better. I listed it as a match because it blended in just fine for me. 🙂
I don’t know if it’s just hard for us NC25-30s to find a shade that works, but this list is a godsend! I’ve added it to my home page. I’ve noticed Tati Westbrook wears the same color foundation I do in a few brands we share, so I try to use her as a reference, but it’s not always easy to find her shade in certain brands! I love that I’ll have this list at my fingertips! Thanks so much for the trouble it took to do this for us!!
Author
I’m so glad it helps you! I did it for that reason…I always found myself on the hunt for matches! I added a concealer match list as well! Thank you Diedre!
Thank you SO much for posting this! I’m NC25/30 and almost all of your shades listed are ones that I have matched myself to previously. I hope you keep adding to this list and I’ll be here to read it all!
THANK YOU for this list! You’ve saved us so much time and cash! This is much appreciated. 🙂
Two questions!
1) Do you have an absolute fave out of this list? Or at least a Top 3? Wondering if I should stray from my regulars… haha.
2) Do you have any NC25 matches in NYX?
Thanks again!
Author
Hi Priscila! This video will help you: https://youtu.be/5m4JgL08Z-8 I haven’t tried NYX. Thank you!
Thank you!
This is great…thank you!
Have you tried Face Atelier?
So useful! Thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for this list! Most of my foundation are the same shades as yours! Just a few different shades like I’m light medium neutral for the Tarte clay stick. But I tried the Mac studio fix fluid NC25 and it seems like it’s a bit darker than my neck. I’m not sure mayb it oxidizes? I’m not sure if I should try Nc20 in case it’s gonna end up being too light for me.. ?
Thank you so much!!!!! This is a fabulous list and you match most of what I wear. I am so thankful!!
You should review the Huda Beauty Foundation… !!!
Love this post! It’s so nice that there’s finally someone who has gone through the trouble of testing and listing al these NC25 matches. Keep up the good work!!
I would be really curious to see what shade you are in the Huda Faux Filter foundation. I love that foundation so much, it has great coverage and lasts all day, but it oxidizes, making it hard to find the right shade (240N Toasted Coconut seems to dark after all)
Do you plan on testing this foundation? Would be so helpful haha!
Honestly, it’s not a foundation I’ve been interested in trying but so many of you have asked about it so I probably should. LOL!
Hi Stephanie, your foundation color match list is my go to chart. What color match are you for Marc remarkable foundation? Thinking of trying it.
Thank u soo much Stephanie? its a wonderful post and i would like to again compliment u that u ate so well organised ??
Love u on UT and this new find
Love from India
Thanks Bela! 🙂
Have you tested Chanel Sublimage?
I have not. Just the Chanel Velvet and other foundations you see listed. 🙂
You have no idea how helpful this is for me for the shades – I’ve struggled forever to get the correct shade and now I can because every shade you list matches me .. seriously you have no idea how much I appreciate this!!
I’m so glad you find it helpful Tiffany! Thanks so much for the feedback as well! 🙂
Hi Stephanie, between L’oreal True Match W4 and Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation – 128, which one is darker in your opinion? Thank you for your help.
Hi Michelle! The L’Oreal might be a tad bit deeper once it’s blended out but not enough to notice. They both match my skin nicely. The L’Oreal has a more golden undertone to it.
OMG! Thank you so much for doing this. I have searched with trial and error for my perfect foundation match and your blog is EXTREMELY helpful. We seem to have similar, if not exact, foundation shades. I have bookmarked this page. Just wanted to let you know I appreciate what you do.
Thanks so much Sandy!
Help! How about the NC25 equivalent color for Giorgio Armani luminous silk foundation?
I tried LS before I started my YouTube channel/blog and it slid off my skin. Unfortunately I don’t recall my shade match because I returned it pretty quickly!
Do you know the shade NC25 in the Maybelline product
Hi! I have several Maybelline foundations listed with all the matches listed next to their product names. 🙂
For anyone who is not an NC25, or even close to it, there is a website called Findation. You plug in your current foundation and it will match you with almost every brand, a very helpful beauty tip. You’re welcome .
Bless you!
Wow you and I have the perfect match on everything! Awesome post
What is your opinion of the CoverFX Power Play? Love your videos!
Hi Kecia!
I haven’t tested it yet. Stay tuned! 🙂 Thank you!
Love this!!! Btw are you using the hudabauty faux filter foundation? If yes, can I ask what shade are you using? Because i heard reviews that the foundation REALLY oxidizes so I wanted to make sure I’m ordering the right shade.
I’ve not tried that. Thank you!
Have you tried the Osmosis Satin foundation? We are the same match in foundation, I want to try it and didn’t know what color to try! Thanks for sharing all your color matches.
I haven’t. 🙂
Have you tried the huda foundation? and your thoughts on it.
I think we are foundation twinsies, and wondering what shade would you pick if you don’t have it already?
I haven’t. Everything I’ve tried is in my list. 🙂
Do you have any recommendations for Bobbi Brown? Thanks! Love your blog!
Love your YT videos! They’ve been so helpful for me – and this list! My skin tone and type is very much like yours.
Have you, or are you planning to try the Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour foundation? I’d love to see what you think of it.
I have it here now. I’ve tried it here and there but not full out. I’ve got so many here to try right now. If you’re subscribed to my YT, it should either show up as a review or in a favorites/fails video at some point! 🙂 Thank you!
OMGGGGGG!!!! A million thank yousssss!! I have been searching high and low for a page like this that would break down all the matches in all the different brands. I’ve come across a few but never like this one. We’re the same exact color so you have made it easy peasy for me to go into most places now and know exactly what color I need without spending forever in there trying to pick the right one. Thank you soooo much!! 🙂
I’m glad it helps Barbara! I’m happy to do it. I asked myself what I was looking for when I was searching for matches in the past and this was pretty much it. I, like you, could never find an all-encompassing list! I’ll keep it updated as I go! 🙂
Yesss our skin tone is a bit off. Not too light and not tan. It can be a headache searching for the right shade. I either look like a ghost or like my face was the only thing that went into a tanning bed. Lol. It’s truly appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to do this for us!! 🙂
Thanks for your helpful post, especially any comments on whether the foundation is a close fit or too light/dark/yellow/etc!
I am an NC25 in Mac SFF and several of your mentioned foundations match what I currently own… Wished I had seen this before I got my Too Faced BTW one.. Looking forward to seeing more foundies (like maybe the Urban Decay All Nighter, ABH stick, Tom Ford, Armani, Rimmell) to your list! 🙂
Thanks Lizzie!
What shade are you in the L’oreal Lumi Cushion?
Thank you!
Why didn’t I put that in there? LOL! W3 is my shade most of the year. I have W4 too for the dead of summer. 🙂
Please try the Fenty Beauty Foundation!! I need to know your thoughts since we have the same foundation shade and skin type❤️❤️❤️ Btw i love all your reviews!!
Why have I not seen your blog before? Would have saved me so much effort! lol. Awesome suggestions! Following you on yt ♥
Haha! Thanks so much Jamie! Glad to have you here and on YT!
I just stumbled upon your blog and this post is beyond perfect!!
Thank you Erica! 🙂
You Shade in Fenty Beauty?
I’m not sure. It hasn’t been in stock in my store to try.
New follower on YouTube and Instagram – Saw your note about Too Faced Cocoa Powder Foundation not being discontinued. I hope so!! It’s been my fav for a while and I was so upset when they said I could no longer get it at my Ulta. Do you know when it will be available? Love the videos ❤️!
Hi and welcome! I’m not sure about the timeframe but I hope soon! If I find out I’ll let you know! Thanks so much Alison!
Hey Stephanie please try Huda foundation and find the match for Nars foundation,shade Punjab. I have heard it has wonderful coverage
I’ve not heard great things for oily/combo skin so I haven’t been in a huge rush. But I may look into it with the VIB sale! 🙂 Thanks for the suggestion!
Thank you! This is beyond useful!!!
Thank you Zoe! 🙂
OMG how have I only come across your bloggs now! This has helped me so much. We match in so many foundations. I was hoping you could maybe find a match for the fenty beauty foundation as I tried 250 but it was waaay too dark xxx
Hi! Thanks so much! I do regular reviews on my YouTube channel if you’re over there too! Glad to have you here! I haven’t tried it yet because I’ve heard SUCH mixed things about it with oily/combo skin and I’ve found such awesome foundations for my skin type lately! I didn’t know if it would even be worth it. I may look into it with the upcoming fall Sephora sale though!