The core difference
Warm undertones have a golden or peachy cast. Cool undertones have a pink or blue cast. The difference is subtle but shows clearly in how colors reflect on your skin.
Warm undertone signs
- Veins lean green
- Gold jewelry looks best
- Cream is more flattering than pure white
- You tan easily
Cool undertone signs
- Veins lean blue or purple
- Silver jewelry looks best
- Pure white looks crisp
- You burn easily
Colors that help you decide
If you look healthier in coral, camel, or warm olive, you likely lean warm. If you look sharper in sapphire, icy blue, or cool gray, you likely lean cool.
Common mistakes
People often mistake skin tone (surface depth) for undertone (underlying hue). Always test in natural light and compare both warm and cool indicators.