You know that time when your foundation was just supposed to even out your skin, but ends up showing more than expected. Too much material, approximate color, marked fine lines… The natural result hoped for can quickly fade away.
Behind this small bottle is above all a surprisingly wide range which could well simplify the search for the right shade.
The Ordinary focuses on a second-skin effect foundation
Despite its name as a serum, it is indeed a foundation. Its serum-like formula has been designed to apply easily and blend into the skin without creating a mask effect. It aims for that famous second-skin finish that you may be looking for for more discreet daily makeup.
Its suspension system with optimized application should also make it possible to obtain a natural finish without marking fine lines. The formula is advertised as compatible with most makeup bases and suitable for all skin types.
With medium coverage, the Serum Foundation is therefore placed between the barely worked complexion and foundations where the substance is much more present.
36 shades, here’s how to find the right shade
It is probably the choice of color that requires the most attention. The Ordinary divides its 36 shades into four categories: 1 for lighter skin tones, 2 for intermediate skin tones, 3 for dark skin tones and 4 for very dark skin tones.
A second number, between 0 and 4, then specifies the intensity. The letter that follows indicates the undertone: P for pink and R for red correspond to cold undertones, N to neutral and Y, for yellow, to warm.
You can therefore already better understand the 1.2 P reference: it is located in the first category of skin tones and has a pink undertone. A detail far from trivial when a color seems correct in its bottle but much less so once applied to the face.
The Serum Foundation hides one last subtlety
Three shades take the system a little further with an additional letter. They use fine natural dispersions of metallic effect pigments intended to provide greater luminosity.
The letter S then indicates silver reflections, while G corresponds to golden reflections. Behind the sometimes mysterious references of the range is therefore a system which takes into account skin tone, intensity, undertone and, in certain cases, type of reflection.
For 7.80 euros for 30 ml, The Ordinary combines medium coverage, a natural finish and 36 shade possibilities. Above all, you have to decode the numbers and letters carefully before putting the bottle in your basket.
1. How much does The Ordinary Serum Foundation cost?
The Ordinary Serum Foundation is sold for 7.80 euros for a 30 ml bottle. It offers medium coverage with a natural finish.
2. Is The Ordinary foundation suitable for all skin types?
Yes. According to information provided by the brand, the Serum Foundation formula is designed to suit all skin types.
3. How many shades are available for the Serum Foundation?
The range includes 36 shades. They are divided into four categories corresponding to lighter, intermediate, dark and very dark skin tones.
4. What does shade 1.2 P mean at The Ordinary?
The number 1 corresponds to lighter skin tones, while the letter P stands for Pink and denotes a cool undertone. The second number allows you to specify the intensity of the tint.
5. What coverage does The Ordinary Serum Foundation provide?
The Ordinary presents its Serum Foundation as a medium coverage foundation without a mask effect. Its serum-like formula aims for a natural second-skin finish that doesn’t mark fine lines.
