Determining whether you have warm or cool skin tones can be a bit difficult. Generally, people who tan well, as opposed to those that burn, usually have warm skin tones. You should also take into account which colors look best on you. Most people will be able to tell their skin tones, however, by looking at the color of the veins just underneath their skin.
One common misconception about skin tones is that individuals with fair skin have cool tones, and individuals with dark skin have warm undertones. In reality, individuals with fair or dark skin could have skin tones that are either warm or cool. It is true that people with fair skin who burn easily typically have cool skin tones. On the other hand, people with dark skin who tan well have warm skin tones.
Hair and eye color may help you recognize your skin tone. Generally, people with red or strawberry blonde hair have warm skin tones, while those with brown or hazel eyes will also have warm skin. People with blue, green, or gray eyes will usually have cool skin.
Another way to tell is by paying attention to how colors affect your skin. If you tend to look better in cooler colors, like blue, you most likely have a cool skin tone. On the other hand, if you tend to look best in warmer colors, like orange, you most likely have a warm skin tone.
Your jewelry may also help you determine whether you have warm or cool skin tones. Silver jewelry typically looks best on people with cool skin tones. Gold jewelry, however, is better suited for individuals with warm skin tones.
When determining skin tone, keep in mind that these rules are just generalizations. Some people with cool skin tones may look great when wearing orange garments, for example, while some individuals with warm skin tones may look great wearing silver jewelry. An easier way to determine skin tone is by looking at your veins.
You should be able to easily see your veins where they are close to the surface of your skin and where the skin is thin; the inside of your wrist or elbow is usually best for this. Individuals with cool skin tones will usually notice that their veins appear blue. On the other hand, if you have a warm skin tone, you may notice that your veins appear to be green.