Foundation + Vitamin D Deficiency

[#1]

I recently went into Sephora for a foundation match.  I was matched with MUFE HD foundation #177.  When we were in the studio it apeared to match; however, once i got into the sunlight, i realized that the color matched my neck which is considerably darker than my face and chest because I have a vitamin D deficiency which darkens the skin on the neck of African Americans.  To me, the foundation looks unnatural, especially when I wear a top that shows my chest,  because it's so much darker than my natural color.  In instances like this, how do you match the color? Is it by the neck or by the chest and face?

[#2]

HI,

Yes it's definitely preference where you would like to match. However, based on what you're saying it is best for you to match on the chest. That way when you are wearing articles of clothing that show your chest you'll be matched. I would match in the center of the declote.

Hope that helps.

[#3]

Hi MahoghanyEyes.  Generally you want to match your neck because you don't want the line of demarcation, but in cases where the neck is much darker, I find a shade in between will look the most natural. For example, if the best match for your face is 153, I would recommend trying 170 or 173.  This will help balance out the difference.  You can blend a little into your neckline, but trying to lighten deeper skin can give an ashy look.  You may want to try dusting a little powder in a similar shade on your chest area.  Not to completely darken but just to add a little balance.

[#4]

Hiya MahoganyEyes - I think, sometimes, is a matter of preference.  I like my foundation to match my neck b/c I don't want the stark color change from neck to face (like a line across your jaw where you can see the foundation versus your skin tone). The color ends up being darker than my chest area, but thats ok for me, but I don't really wear clothing that exposes that area.  However, I understand your concern.  If the difference between the foundation color and your chest area/natural face tone is too dark for you to be comfortable, you might want to consider going a shade lighter and blending the foundation all the way down your neck.  Also, I am not familiar with Vitamin D deficiency and whether any topical treatments can help (or whether it is an internal thing), but there is a new product by Dr. Dennis Gross which is a topical Vitamin D: http://www.sephora.com/active-vitamin-d-serum-oil-P302300

You can get a deluxe sample size with your online order and the promo code: YOURGIFT.   Goodluck hun!