Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam

For best foundation match, testing should be done on the?

1. Jawline

2. Wrist

3. Neck

4. Arm

The correct answer is: Jawline

Testing foundation on the jawline is considered the best practice for achieving the most accurate match for several reasons. The jawline is situated between the face and the neck, which makes it an ideal area for determining how well the foundation blends with both the skin tone of the face and that of the neck. The skin color and tone of the jawline often represent a balance between the lighter skin color of the neck and the slightly more exposed and possibly darker skin on the face. By applying the foundation to this area, you can see how well it coordinates with the surrounding skin tones when transitioning from the neck to the face. Additionally, the jawline is often where makeup meets natural skin, so it helps in visualizing the overall look after blending. Other areas, like the wrist or arm, may not accurately reflect the facial skin tone due to different exposures to sun and environmental factors, leading to misjudgment in matching foundations. The neck could be an option, but it might not always represent the skin tone of the face accurately, especially in those who use sun protection on their face while the neck remains more exposed. Thus, the jawline serves as the most effective location for this specific test.