Personal color analysis is widely used in Korean beauty. It sorts your skin undertone into one of four "seasons". Once you know yours, choosing makeup shades is easier.
In Korea it is a common part of how people shop for makeup. Many products are described by season, and fans often discuss which season K-pop idols are.
The Four Seasons
Spring Warm
Bright, clear warm undertones. Skin looks best in natural light. Best colors: coral, peach, warm yellow, salmon pink.
Celebrity examples: Jang Wonyoung (IVE), IU
Summer Cool
Soft, muted cool undertones. Skin has a slightly grey or blue cast. Best colors: rose, lavender, dusty pink, mauve.
Celebrity examples: Nayeon (TWICE), Minji (NewJeans)
Autumn Warm
Deep, muted warm undertones. Rich, earthy skin tone. Best colors: brick, terracotta, warm brown, burnt orange.
Celebrity examples: V (BTS), Lisa (BLACKPINK)
Winter Cool
High contrast cool undertones. Clear, vivid complexion. Best colors: cherry, wine red, true red, fuchsia.
Celebrity examples: Karina (aespa), Jennie (BLACKPINK)
How to Get Analyzed
In Korea
Professional personal color analysis in Seoul costs $50-150 and takes about 60-90 minutes. The analyst holds different colored fabrics under your face and checks which colors brighten your skin and which wash you out.
Online (DIY)
While not as accurate as professional analysis, you can get a rough idea by checking which jewelry looks better on you (gold = warm, silver = cool) and whether your veins appear more green (warm) or blue/purple (cool).
Shopping by Personal Color
Once you know your season, picking shades is easier. A shade that suits a celebrity with a different undertone may not suit you, so check the season before you copy a look.
