Q: Any tips for finding the right shade of foundation when I buy it at the chemist?

A: Even though you can't test foundation at most chemists, a few secrets can help you select the right shade. First, shop when you're not wearing any make-up; this shows your natural skin tone. Formulas with a yellow tint work best because all complexions have yellow undertones. To find a match, compare three shades by holding them up to your face: one that looks just right, one that's darker and one that's lighter. Check near a window that lets in natural light; fluorescent lighting can alter the colour’s appearance. Also, consider buying two hues. Make-up artists often mix and match to create a customised shade. Finally, check out the chemist's return policy; many stores let you bring a product back if the colour is wrong.

By Bobbi Brown, celebrity make-up artist and author of three bestsellers on beauty. Bobbi Brown is also the founder of her own multimillion-dollar cosmetics business, and Prevention's beauty columnist.

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