Tom Ford Traceless Perfecting Foundation…Swatches of All 15 Shades!

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation
Above: The freshly released Tom Ford Traceless Perfecting Foundation…long wearing, medium to full coverage and a natural finish…magnifique!
As a foundation devotee, I have been eagerly anticipating the release of the latest Tom Ford foundation formula, the Traceless Perfecting Foundation (currently available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Bergdorf Goodman).  Up until yesterday, I had only read online murmurings of this formula, which purports long wearing medium to full coverage with a natural finish and comes in a revolutionary airless pump.  Imagine my unfettered delight in discovering that Neiman Marcus Fashion Island (where I was commiserating with Sabrina of The Beauty Look Book for lunch + a beauty-drenched afternoon) had just received its shipment minutes prior to our arrival!  Of course, I picked up a bottle (enabling a comprehensive future review) and will share my initial impressions in this post.  
Above: The lovely Sabrina of The Beauty Look Book and me following our time at Neiman Marcus.
The more important element, however, is that I have swatches of ALL 15 shades in various lighting situations to share…since this was a spontaneous swatching session, I had to use my trusty iPhone instead of my esteemed Cannon Rebel but I am pleased with how the images came out nonetheless.  I hope you enjoy ; ) 
A quick rundown of my initial impressions:
  • The shades are both numbered and named, but, unlike the ordering of the original TF Traceless Liquid Foundation and TF Traceless Foundation Stick (fully swatched HERE), the numbers do not correspond with a “lightest to darkest” schema. 
  • Although there is some correlation between formulas (e.g., I wear #5 Natural in the stick–swatched and reviewed HERE; swatches of ALL shades of the stick HERE–and picked up #5 Natural in the Traceless Perfecting), it is not, in anyway, exact.  More on this towards the end of my post.
  • Texturally, the foundation is much more dense than the original Traceless SPF 15 formula and this viscosity yields significantly greater coverage (medium to full) that still looks very believable and not “made-up.”
  • Once applied, the foundation takes on a natural matte finish…the skin looks incredibly perfected, yet entirely natural, with a single application.
  • I tested out its purported long-wearing capabilities today…it’s sunny, 100+ degrees and extremely humid in Southern CA today and I am on hour #7 of wear as I type this.  My skin hasn’t required a touchup (no sliding, creasing or pooling into pores) and looks only slightly glowy.  Impressive. 
  • Even though it is thicker in texture than the original Traceless formula, my skin still feels like it can breathe…the formula doesn’t feel heavy or greasy whatsoever.
  • It has SPF 15 but doesn’t appear to flash back in flash photography.
  • Overall, I am very pleased with this latest foundation incarnation…it provides much better coverage (for my preferences) than the original Traceless SPF 15 formula and more stalwart lasting power than the Foundation Stick (which was already fairly decent to begin with).  This formula is definitely an asset and sure to be a hit at Tom Ford counters…especially as individuals continue to battle sweaty, heated summertime complexions for the next couple of months!


Ingredients

Active Ingredients
octinoxate
titanium dioxide



Inactive Ingredients
water • dimethicone • cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 dimethicone • butylene glycol • glycerin • trimethylsiloxysilicate • disteardimonium hectorite • sodium chloride • polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate • sapindus mukurossi fruit extract • morinda citrifolia fruit extract • butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) • lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil • caffeine • dimethicone crosspolymer • methicone • stearic acid • glyceryl oleate • caesalpinia spinosa gum • tocopheryl acetate • tocopherol • lecithin • sodium dehydroacetate • ascorbyl palmitate • glyceryl stearate • citric acid • talc • alumina • disodium EDTA • linalool • phenoxyethanol • [+/- iron oxides (CI 77491) • iron oxides (CI 77492) • titanium dioxide (CI 77891) • iron oxides (CI 77499) • mica]



Official details, courtesy of Neiman Marcus:


For Tom Ford, A Flawless Complexion is the essential first step to a balanced and symmetrical face. This natural-finish, longwearing, humidity-resistant foundation hydrates and evens skin tone, creating a flawless, supple and pore-less canvas on which to sculpt the features. Its state-of-the-art formulation includes the skin-nourishing Tom Ford infusing complex to help smooth and renew skin and help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Buildable medium-to-full coverage SPF broad-spectrum sun protection shields skin from UVA/UVB damage.

1 fl. oz./30ml

______________________________________________________________________________
Let the shade descriptions (with their approximate correlating matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick) and swatching begin!  
Kindly scroll on for swatches and shade descriptions (including a closeup of #5 Natural–my personal match–in all three TF foundation formulas) as well as the Bottom Line…

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Above: **Missing the “#7 Tawny” dot.  This is the only image with that oversight ; ) 
Shade Descriptions (in my experience):

#1 Cream: Very light neutral beige for skin in the N/NC/NW 15 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Alabaster.
#2 Ivory: Light neutral beige for skin in the N/NW 15-20 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Pale Dune.
#3 Fawn: Light yellow beige for skin in the N/NC 15-20 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Fawn.
#4 Bisque: Light neutral beige for skin in the N//NC/NW 20-25 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Bisque.
#5. Natural: Light to medium warm olive beige for skin in the N/NC 25-28 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Natural, Bisque and Sable.
#6 Sable: Medium warm beige for skin in the NC 30 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Sable and Tawny.
#6.5 Rosewood: Light rosy beige for skin in the N/NW 20-23 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Fawn (though Fawn is a bit more on the yellow side).
#7 TawnyVery warm golden medium beige for skin in the NC 30-35 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Tawny and Caramel.
#8 Caramel: Neutral to peachy medium beige for skin in the N/NC/NW 30-35 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Tawny and Caramel.
#9 Sienna: Dark neutral beige for skin in the N/NC/NW 35-42 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Toffee and Praline
#11 Warm Almond: Dark neutral to warm beige for skin in the N/NC/NW 43-45 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Warm Almond.
#12 Chestnut: Darkest neutral beige for skin in the N/NC/Nw 45-50+ range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Chestnut.


**#13, #14 and #15 are Asia-centric shades with Buff and Linen both being lighter than #1 Cream and #15 Bare Beige slipping into the lineup between #3 Fawn and #4 Bisque.


#13 Buff: Very fair neutral beige for skin in the N/NW 10 range…the approximate match in the Traceless Foundation Stick is Alabaster.  This is the lightest shade in the formula.
#14 Linen: Very fair yellow beige for skin in the NC 10 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Alabaster and Pale Dune (but closer to Pale Dune in undertone).

#15 Bare Beige: Light neutral to warm beige for skin in the N/NC/NW 20-23 range…the approximate matches in the Traceless Foundation Stick are somewhere between Fawn, Bisque and Natural.

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Above: Also wearing a Blank NYC Denim Pencil Skirt and Jenni Kayne D’Orsay Flats.
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
And now for a brief visual break from swatches…
Above: Ahh…the beautiful Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island.
Above: The ever-patient Jethro dutifully waiting while I swatch outside of the store. 
Back to the swatches!
Because there is not a direct correlation between the same shade in the different formulas (though some similarities), I wanted to illustrate the differences with a sample shade, #5 Natural, that happens to be my best match in all three formulas throughout the year.  
Shade #5 Natural in the: 
  • Traceless Perfecting Foundation is approximately NC 25-28 upon dry down.  It leans very warm olive and is a perfect match for my summer skin.
  • Traceless Foundation SPF 15 is approximately NC 23-25 upon dry down.  It, too, leans very warm, but lacks the apparent depth of the Traceless Perfecting version of Natural.
  • Traceless Foundation Stick is approximately NC 20-25 upon dry down.  It more neutral and appears MUCH lighter than the Traceless Perfecting and slightly lighter than the original Traceless versions and is my perfect match in the winter and early spring months.  
Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches

Tom Ford traceless perfecting foundation swatches
And so concludes this host of swatches!
Above: At the end of my Fashion Island excursion…armed with bags aplenty and taking dinner home to my parents and husband ; )   That’s “my” kind of cooking!  Also wearing a Topshop Crepe Swing Tank, Blank NYC Pencil Skirt and Jenni Kayne Leather D’Orsay Flats
–Shop the Post–

Bottom Line: I am beyond thankful that the timing worked out for me to enjoy a gorgeous day at Fashion Island with a dear friend AND have the chance to swatch this incredible new formula (currently available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Bergdorf Goodman).  Although, of course, more trial will be necessary before I can extend my final opinion on this foundation, I can confirm that upon wearing  it for the past seven hours (and it is excruciatingly warm and humid today), my skin looks ultra even, only slightly dewy and completely fresh (without a single touchup…I didn’t even initially set this with powder).  In other words, this medium to full coverage wonder wears beautifully!  
More soon including new releases from Jouer, Hourglass and Cle de Peau as well as swatches of the new Tom Ford Concealing Pen (which I also got a chance to play with at length yesterday).  So excited for all I’m working on at Beauty Professor!  Whoever said summer was the “slow season” was dead wrong ;  )
Will YOU be trying this foundation? Thoughts? 
Hope your week is going well…xx,
–The Beauty Professor
© 2012-14 Beautyprofessor® All Rights Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos without author’s written permission.

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Comments (96)

  • Unknown Reply

    Thank you So SO much for this!! You are the first to get out there and publish swatches and opinions!! I look forward to your feelings on the foundation after you have truly gotten to play with it. Also what you think about the concealer… And the sponge tip �� That has me a bit weary.
    Thanks again from all the folks who would have to drive 4-5 hours or catch a plane to be able to play with Tom Ford foundations, etc.
    ttfn, Charli

    July 31, 2014 at 2:51 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure, Charli! I felt so fortunate to be able to be at NM the day it arrived and wanted to get the swatches up as soon as possible for everyone ordering online!

      I did indeed swatch the concealer (images soon) and the texture and coverage is good…the sponge tip is flexible and seems to distribute the product well; I just didn't try any on my face ; )

      I so appreciate your kind feedback and hope you have a lovely rest of the week…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:09 pm
  • Georgia Reply

    Thank you SO much for this, Ms BP! I am a long time reader, first time commenter, and would love to say THANK YOU for your detailed and brilliant swatches. I live in Australia, and as a result, shop online a lot. Your swatches make that process so much more enjoyable and certain.

    I adore the TF Traceless Liquid Foundation, so cannot try wait to try its matter, longer-lasting sister. We receive the TF prods much, much later than you American babes (we just received the Color Sheers last week!), so I'll have to trawl the internet to find a suitable TF source, because I can't wait for this one! Thanks again, we are very lucky to have you! x

    July 31, 2014 at 3:09 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Georgia!

      I am happy to share these! Thank you for commenting and offering your sweet sentiments; it always makes my work feel worthwhile when I can help my readers with their online beauty procurements.

      This is definitely longer lasting and more coverage than the original TF Traceless and so perfect for warm weather!

      Have a beautiful day and please keep in touch…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:12 pm
  • linda Reply

    Great post! Im an natural i tf stick. What color do you think suit me best? Looks like natural is a bit dark 🙁

    July 31, 2014 at 7:45 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thank you, Linda! I would suggest Fawn (on the lighter side), Bare Beige (neutral and similar in terms of tone..I will likely go to this in the colder months when I'm at my lightest) or Bisque (just a hint lighter and more neutral than the Traceless Perfecting Natural).

      I hope that helps!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:14 pm
  • Bella Reply

    Dear Professor, thank you so much for this dissertation ;). There is no Tom Ford counter in this country and thanks to your swatches I correctly chose my shades in the Traceless Liquid (Tawny) and the Foundation Stick (Caramel, though could prob also have gone for Tawny) LOL! So if I read things correctly I should be Tawny in this line; I am deeply yellow in undertone. I shall wait and see whether anyone darker than you posts some swatches within the coming months; I shall only really reach for fuller coverage in the autumn anyway, but thanks to you I now know where to start!!! <3.

    July 31, 2014 at 9:43 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Bella,

      My pleasure! I am so glad that my swatches could help you to find your perfect match! I think you will find a great match in Tawny in this formula well!

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:18 pm
  • Shireen L. Platt Reply

    I love the fact it has sooo many shades to choose from. Great to see TF did not forget coloured women. Your swatches are perfect as always, so helpful for us who wants to purchase through online!

    July 31, 2014 at 10:04 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      There is a fantastic distribution of shades, Shireen…I feel the same way! There should definitely be a match of everyone in this formula!

      Thanks for your sweet words and talk soon…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:18 pm
  • Vivella Reply

    Thank you so much for your extensive and detailed swatches, much appreciated! I enjoy your blog but I don't usually comment, however you put so much work into this I couldn't resist.

    July 31, 2014 at 12:50 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Happy to help, Viv! I so appreciate you sharing your comment this time ; )

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:19 pm
  • Unknown Reply

    You're fabulous! Thank You!!!

    July 31, 2014 at 1:05 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thank you, Wendy!

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:19 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    thank you thank you thank you! love you and this blog!

    July 31, 2014 at 1:09 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure…thank YOU for your support!

      xo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:19 pm
  • jamsusa Reply

    OH MY! I was just looking at this foundation online yesterday and it showed up at your blog today. THANK YOU! These swatches are very helpful indeed. And I look forward to your future foundation reviews.
    Enjoy your day.

    Rochie

    July 31, 2014 at 5:32 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Rochie!

      I tried to get the swatches up as soon as I could ; ) Glad to hear that they are helpful!

      xoxo and enjoy your day as well,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:20 pm
    • jamsusa Reply

      I use # 3 Fawn but you are right it is a bit more onto the yellow side which I prefer a bit warmer shade, so I think I am gonna try 6.5 rosewood. I will link this post in my blog ( non English version ), is it all right? It would help others for sure !

      August 3, 2014 at 7:36 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Jamsusa!

      That sounds wise…yes, please feel free to link to this post from your blog. Thank you for asking!

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 5, 2014 at 4:40 am
  • Francesca Reply

    Thank you so much for posting these swatches! As a huge fan of the Traceless Foundation Stick, I've been so excited to try this foundation. I almost ordered it in the shade Cream— thank goodness I was able to see that Buff was the lightest shade. You've saved me a return! Thank you for all that you do, I really appreciate it! Have a wonderful weekend!

    July 31, 2014 at 8:46 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Francesca!

      Happy to oblige ; ) If you love the coverage of the Traceless Foundation Stick then I think you will enjoy this new formula as well! So glad that my swatches helped you to select your perfect match!

      Thank you for your support and friendship…xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 8:56 pm
  • Rebekah Reply

    LOL!!! You did it again!! You read my mind!! I was able to see these in person and was shocked to learn my previous match of Fawn wasn't my match anymore…I was able to wear Bare Beige and could have pulled off Natural, but once winter came I would have to go lighter again so I opted for Bare Beige…I'm waiting for mine to be delivered as they didn't have it in stock, I can't wait to properly test it and also to hear your thoughts! I can't say I'm not excited to see swatches of the new CdP Radiant foundation…I want to order so badly but I want to make sure I go with the right shade! Have an awesome day and thank you so much!!!

    July 31, 2014 at 9:12 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Rebekah!

      Love it…we foundation lovers are likely hard-wired with luxury formula new release radar ; ) Did that make sense? I am so glad you were able to determine your match…I know I'll go down to Bare Beige once my summer skin lightens back up to a NC 23-25 or so. Ahh…working on the CdP Radiant review this weekend…be forewarned, it's an equally lovely formula!

      xoxo and have a beautiful day…talk soon,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 9:17 pm
    • Rebekah Reply

      Ohhhhhh my dear BP….you weren't kidding about the CdP. I'm supposed to be testing the TF$ this week at the request of tons of friends…but I keep cheating on it with the CdP foundation!! They are so equally beautiful, I don't think I could choose a favorite!

      August 4, 2014 at 8:58 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Indeed! Isn't it dreamy? I have been alternating between the CdP and TF for the past couple of weeks and both are staples on my vacation (though I will say that the TF has a slight a leg up on withstanding heat and humidity).

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 5, 2014 at 4:39 am
  • Full Time Ford Reply

    Thank you so much for sharing these swatches with everyone (and bless you for taking them and writing this wonderful overview). I hope you don't mind, but I linked to your post from a few posts on my own site as so many are asking for swatches, and I don't have access to them right now. Besides which, this post can essentially serve as the Traceless Perfecting Foundation Swatch Bible. Thanks again! (P.S. I was happy to hear that Bisque is essentially the same – mine should be delivered tomorrow!)

    July 31, 2014 at 9:58 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello!

      Thanks for all of the wonderful feedback…I don't mind at all that you've linked to this post and am glad that it will be a good companion to what you've already written about this foundation, making it helpful to Tom Ford lovers everywhere ; ) Can't wait to hear your thoughts on Bisque!

      xoxo and talk soon,

      –The Beauty Professor

      July 31, 2014 at 10:17 pm
  • ame Reply

    Ohhhhhhhhhh now I need to order. Linen I bet. But I am not chomping at the bit for the concealer input and shades!!!

    August 1, 2014 at 3:03 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Ame…I hope Linen works out for you!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 5, 2014 at 3:50 am
  • Tatiana Reply

    Wow! Thanks for swatching these so thoroughly. I really want to wear the original traceless foundation, but the Alabaster is too dark and too yellow. So if there is indeed a shade in the Traceless Perfecting formula that is lighter than Alabaster, I cannot wait to try it.

    August 1, 2014 at 6:49 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Tatiana,

      Glad to hear that the swatches are helpful for you! I think you may find your perfect match in this formula since it has shades that are indeed lighter than Alabaster!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 5, 2014 at 3:54 am
  • Christina Reply

    Thank you so much for the swatches! I was contemplating buy this, but I hate buying online and blindly guessing what color to buy. Would you say that the 13 and 14 are more yellow than Fawn and Cream? They look like it in your swatches, but it can be hard to tell sometimes.

    I have the most difficult time finding foundation shades that match my super fair but yellow complexion. I usually wear By Terry Cover Expert in Creme Beige, but that is actually too dark and pink for me. 🙂 To date, I haven't found a foundation that matches, maybe Hourglass's Immaculate in Porcelain, but that's a hair too light and too powdery looking on me.

    Based on your swatches, I think I might be Buff, Linen, or Fawn.

    August 1, 2014 at 8:00 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure, Christina!

      Yes, I would say that #14 is more yellow than Fawn and Cream and that #13 is similar…more in the neutral to yellow territory.

      I hope you find your perfect match in this formula…it is magnificent!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 5, 2014 at 3:56 am
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hi BP:)
    Was hoping you could give comparison of this to the CdP cream foundation. Wanting more natural to semi-matte finish, but very interested in the TF:)
    Enjoy your vacation
    XX ((HUGS))
    Shelly

    August 8, 2014 at 2:11 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Shelly,

      Thanks for the question! I find that this is similar the CdP Cream Foundation (which I still adore); although, the TF holds up even better in heat and humidity than the CdP! Both are lovely options and have similar natural, semi-matte finishes. Since I have a full tube of the O20 in the CdP, I'll go back to that when my skin lightens up a bit, but for now, the TF Natural is a perfect fit for my summer skin.

      Hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 11, 2014 at 10:08 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    Dear BP,
    I could use Fawn, but it is too yellow. I would much prefer Bisque, but it is too dark. Would you advise me to get Bare Beige or Ivory (which looks kind of darker than Fawn in your swatches)?
    Thank you so much. Your advice is truly appreciated!
    Michaela

    August 14, 2014 at 3:28 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Michaela,

      I would suggest Bare Beige as I think it fits right in the middle of the shades that don't work for you!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 16, 2014 at 9:57 pm
  • Cathy Reply

    Let me start of by saying, I LOVE LOVE your blog!
    I'm having trouble finding a color match foundation. I'm Asian with a really yellow undertone, I would say I'm NC-25. I've tried many foundation brands; Chanel, Armani, Bobbi brown etc.. Its yellow enough when i'm indoor but once I step outdoor, It's PINK! I even had people tell me it's pink or orange. Could you recommend a few foundations with a yellow undertone? and also I was hoping you could give comparison of this (Tom Ford) to the By Terry expert foundation. and also which one do you think has more of a yellow tone?

    Thank you! xoxo

    August 15, 2014 at 12:05 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Cathy!

      Thank you ever so much!

      With regards to your question, I would suggest the Tom Ford in Bare Beige and the By Terry in #7 (on the lighter side of NC 25) and #8 (closer to NC 25-27). All three shades have yellowish undertones that don't turn pink!

      I hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 16, 2014 at 9:59 pm
  • Jennifer Reply

    Thank you so much for these amazing swatches! I really don't know what I'd do without your blog. What shade do you think is comparable to By Terry Cover Expert 2/GA Luminous Silk 2? I'm usually the fairest shade in most foundations (around an N10-12) with neutral to slightly yellow undertones.

    August 18, 2014 at 2:39 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Great to hear from you and happy to help! I would suggest Buff or Linen!

      Hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 20, 2014 at 3:35 am
    • Jennifer Reply

      Thank you! I ordered Buff, I'll let you know how it is!

      August 30, 2014 at 4:27 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Great, Jen…please do!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      September 3, 2014 at 12:14 am
  • Makeup Remastered Reply

    Hi BP
    How would you say the shades 4 and 5 differ – is it just a matter of a lighter shade or is it slightly more yellow? I would be around a Mac NC 25 and I am a 5.5 in Armani luminous silk , Nars Tinted Moisturiser in Groenland – I am leaning towards the 4 – I'm about a 9 in the By Terry Densiless foundation and cover expert in summer months but these can tend to be a bit warm .?? Any direction would be great!

    September 6, 2014 at 4:37 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello! In response to your question, #4 Bisque is a touch lighter and more neutral than #5 Natural. I am NC 25-27 and #5 is still a good match for my skin but I might bump down to #4 once I get a bit lighter and spot on with a NC 25. If you think you are going to stay at a NC 25 (and not get any darker) then I would recommend the #4. Otherwise, if you think you'll get a tad darker, then the #5 should work.

      I hope that helps!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      September 11, 2014 at 9:58 pm
    • Makeupremastered Reply

      Thank u so much-I really appreciate your help!!I think 4 will b perfect from your comments.

      September 12, 2014 at 7:37 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure and glad to hear it!

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      September 18, 2014 at 6:47 am
  • beth Reply

    Dear Beauty Professor,
    Thanks for the great review. I purchased the new Tom Ford foundation in Barely Beige for my NW20-23 (neutral to pink undertone) skin tone. It seems a tad too yellow/orange in undertone for me , but the intensity level seems good. Would the Bisque perhaps lean more cool? For reference the YSL fusion shade in BR30 works well for my skin tone.
    Thanks for a great blog that I very much enjoy reading.

    September 28, 2014 at 4:57 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Beth,

      Thanks for your question…the Bisque does lean a bit more neutral but it is definitely deeper in intensity than Barely Beige (closer to a B40 in the YSL than the B30 that you currently wear).

      I hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      September 29, 2014 at 12:41 am
  • Unknown Reply

    Hi I am 010 in dior star. I can't find a match in mufe hd as 115 is too pink and 117 too dark and yellow. What shade would be best for me? Julie

    October 2, 2014 at 10:19 pm
  • The Beauty Professor Reply

    Hi Julie…I recommend #2 Ivory or #14 Linen!

    xx,

    –The Beauty Professor

    October 4, 2014 at 6:07 am
  • Posh Pearl Reply

    Hello!

    I love your blog! I always read your reviews and refer to your swatches. I honestly feel that your reviews by far are the most helpful and informative!

    I've never used TF foundations before but after reading this review, I will be needing this! I wear Armani Luminous Silk in 4 (winter) and 4.5 (summer). Which shade would recommend for me? There are no TF counters where I am…will need to go to another state!

    Xoxo

    October 8, 2014 at 5:04 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Posh Pearl,

      Thank you so much…your compliment is so kind!

      I would say that Ivory is closest to #4 in Armani LS and Bare Beige is closest to 4.5.

      I hope that helps!

      xxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      October 14, 2014 at 12:13 am
    • Posh Pearl Reply

      Thanks for your reply! And keep up the good work. LOVE you and your blog!! xoxo

      October 17, 2014 at 10:45 pm
  • wefadetogray Reply

    Beautiful one,
    I am looking for your advice regarding this foundation. I am not sure what shade to get. I am considering Fawn and Bare Beige as they seem to be the closest to my skin. I am fair with yellow/golden undertones. I use Armani LS in 4.5 (I read above that you say Armani LS 4.5 is closest to Bare Beige) Ysl Fusion Ink in 15 BD, Chanel 20, Diorskin nude 21. What would you recommend? I am not even near a Tom Ford counter anywhere insight, sadly.
    Thank you!

    October 22, 2014 at 4:23 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello dear reader!

      I would recommend the Fawn shade as it has the yellow tones of the YSL 15 BD, Chanel 20 and Diorskin Nude 21. The Bare Beige is a touch more neutral!

      I hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      October 24, 2014 at 1:16 am
    • wefadetogray Reply

      It does. Thank you so much for getting back to me.
      xxxx

      October 24, 2014 at 7:26 pm
  • Lolz Reply

    Hi BP,

    Came across this post and your blog whilst researching the traceless perfecting foundation. Really enjoyed reading, so thank you!

    I've decided I want to purchase this foundation, but there is no store near me that carries it … forcing me to guess which colour I am. Would you be able to suggest one for me? I feel like I would be either Cream or Ivory. I do have some pink in my skin, but I feel like Rosewood is very/too pink. What are your thoughts?

    Colours I've used in the past:
    Mont Blanc, NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
    020, Diorskin Nude Foundation (slightly dark for me)
    04.75, Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk Foundation

    Also, is there a "Holy Grail" foundation brush that you use?

    December 5, 2014 at 6:09 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Lolz,

      Thanks for the kind comment…I would suggset Ivory…it is a great neutral and close to Dior 020!

      With regards to brushes, I love the Beauty Blender best ; )

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 12:34 am
  • Unknown Reply

    Hi Lovely,
    Just a quick question in regards to this foundation versus the Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Fluid.
    I see this in your favorites so maybe I have the answer to what you prefer
    How do the compare in coverage and lasting power especially in humidity and sweating? You said here that it appears to last very well in the heat and humidity, just wanted to compare.
    As for colour selection again it will be a toss up between 4 & 5. 5 doesn't look as as dark as Dusk in the Laura Mercier, so I think would match perfectly. Your thought would be very helpful.
    I can buy here in Australia now so am very very excited although it is twice the price of the Laura Mercier one, I think the Tom Ford one would look amazing in my collection hahaha.

    Take care and talk soon xoxoxo

    December 6, 2014 at 4:17 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Julie!

      With regards to lasting power, nothing performs like the Tom Ford Traceless Perfecting in my experience…it is incredible, even in inclimate weather and extreme humidity!

      #5 is a favorite and similar to Dusk in the LM…you can always mix a drop of something lighter in it to gain a perfect color match!

      I am on my second bottle of the TF…it is that good!

      I hope that helps…xoxo and talk soon,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 12:46 am
  • Noelle Reply

    Hi BP!

    I just stumbled across your blog and YouTube videos and I'm hooked! So much so that I ran over to Saks today to pick up the TF Traceless perfecting foundation – I'm in love! One question I had for you. I am going on Holiday (leaving tomorrow) and I noticed once you open up the pump there is no way to close it (and it came with no cap). I re-watched your videos and it looked like you had somehow closed it?! Am I losing my mind?

    Thanks for the help!!!

    xx,

    Noelle

    December 30, 2014 at 12:44 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Noelle,

      Thanks for the kind comment! So glad you are loving the TF Foundation…the opening and closing is tricky until you do it once ; ) Just swivel the base of the top of the foundation to the left and it should go down into the top of the bottle. Does that make sense? It just involves some twisting in the opposite direction of how you opened it and it will close securely!

      Hope that helps…have a great trip!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 30, 2014 at 5:19 am
  • Boonatnat Reply

    Hi Beauty Professor! How are u?
    I would like to ask, i use D&G matte in natural beige…what would be the closest colour in TF traceless perfecting foundie??

    January 19, 2015 at 3:37 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello!

      I would suggest shade #5 Natural in this formula!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      January 19, 2015 at 10:09 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hello Beauty Professor!
    I wear Guerlain Lingerie De Peau invisible skin fusion foundation in shade 03 beige naturel and it is perfect for me. What shade will be ok for me in Tom Ford Perfection Foundation?

    January 23, 2015 at 4:23 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello…I think Bisque should be a good match for you in this formula!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      January 25, 2015 at 11:17 pm
  • Unknown Reply

    Thank you for your swatches. I'm debating between ivory and rosewood. My skin is neutral to pink. Foundations I wear and like are Burburry sheer in no 4, chanel in 22 beige rose, armani luminous in 4.5, Mac nw20/n1, dior star mix of 10 and 20. Thanks for your help!

    January 28, 2015 at 5:13 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Jolie…thanks for your comment ; )

      I think Rosewood is a great option for your skintone!

      I hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      February 3, 2015 at 6:32 pm
    • Unknown Reply

      Thank you so much! I appreciate your help and I look forward to trying this foundation!

      February 4, 2015 at 2:42 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure, Jolie…happy to help!

      Keep me posted…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      February 4, 2015 at 5:40 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hi BP,
    Love your post ! I am not sure what shade to get. I was matched to O20- BF20 in CLdP ( I am half Asian and have yellow undertones) and don't like foundations to turn pinkish on my skin. I also will get a bit darker in the summer. Should I get #5 Natural or it will be too dark ? Also can you recommend great setting powder for retouch and what shade? I been looking at Serge Lutens, Charlotte Tillbury, YSL loose powders . Thank you !

    February 25, 2015 at 7:04 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello and thanks!

      With regards to your question, I think you'll find Natural to be too dark…I believe you'll be better off with Fawn (on the lighter side) or Bisque (which is a bit deeper!).

      For setting powder, I love the Tom Ford Luminous or Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush powders! Serge Lutens is better for touchups than intitial setting.

      Hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      March 9, 2015 at 3:01 am
  • L Posey Reply

    Hello BP!

    I love your blog, and am so thankful for your detailed posts and swatches! I am anxious to try TF Traceless Perfecting Foundation, but I am unsure which shade would suit me best. Currently, I wear By Terry Cover Expert in 7, and it is a perfect match. Would you be able to suggest a shade in TF? Thanks for your help!

    March 25, 2015 at 8:39 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Posey,

      I would suggest #3 Fawn as an option. I currently wear By Terry #8 and I mix Fawn and Natural!

      I hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      March 29, 2015 at 11:39 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hellow BP,

    I love to read your reviews of different novelties in the market…
    Some products interested me, TF Traceless Perfecting Foundation, Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluid and Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Fluid Foundation…. Now (winter, summer 030 ) I wear Dior Star 020, (Dior Forewer 023) after 3 hours fails during a time and gloss gets out, and Dior Nude air 020 even quicker everything blurs… 🙁
    What of them could be recommended for my skin with a pores, skin kombi? I'm europian , not to pink, more to neutral with some yelow, witch Nr you recomended for me?

    Thanks for your help!
    Sorry for mistake …. 🙂

    April 16, 2015 at 2:16 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello,

      In response to your question, I would definitely suggest this foundation in either Ivory (on the lighter side) or Bisque (on the darker side). This formula lasts for hours, even in heat and works great with combination skin.

      I hope that helps!

      –The Beauty Professor

      April 16, 2015 at 7:50 pm
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hmmm….

    What do you think, or may be #15 Bare Beige ( more neutral beige) – between #3 Fawn and #4 Bisque?
    Should I get Bisque or it will be too yellow… or they are very similar?

    Thanks for the help!!! 🙂

    Rita

    April 16, 2015 at 9:05 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Bare Beige actually oxidized a bit peachy on me…I think Bisque is your best option!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      April 28, 2015 at 4:58 am
  • Anonymous Reply

    Hi! I love your blog!! Your swatches and reviews are wonderful, and your recommendations on shade matches are so helpful. I'd love to try the Traceless Perfecting but have no counter. I'm about NW-23 and wear Burberry Sheer #6 and I mix Armani Maestro #5 and 5.5. I also mix the 20 and the 30 in Chanel formulas. I usually prefer a neutral foundation and I avoid very yellow tones. I'm torn between Ivory, Bisque, Rosewood, and Bare Beige. I'd prefer one shade, but (obviously) I wouldn't mind mixing if I had to. lol! Thanks for any recs!!

    April 17, 2015 at 6:28 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thanks so much!! That is wonderful to hear.

      I would suggest Bisque as your best bet!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      April 28, 2015 at 5:02 am
  • jbc Reply

    I know you love this foundation but I am wondering your thoughts/ if you have tired the Bobbi Brown Long Wear Even Finish since it has about 90% the same ingredients?

    May 23, 2015 at 11:20 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi JBC,

      I have indeed tried the Bobbi Brown but much prefer this; I know there is a lot of ingredient overlap with TF and BB bases but have consistently been more pleased with the look, finish and performance of the TF (such is the case with the stick foundation as well!).

      Hope that helps,

      –The Beauty Professor

      May 26, 2015 at 10:33 pm
  • Valerie Reply

    Hi! I am torn between the shades Fawn, Bisque, and Natural.. I am worried that Fawn might be too light, Bisque too neutral, Natural too dark. I am 113 in Koh Gen Do Moisture foundation and 213 in Koh Gen Do Aqua. Both I bought because of you hahaha. Oh and 021 in Diorskin Forever. Can you please help suggest a shade? I have no Tom Ford counter where I live.
    Thanks so much!

    June 10, 2015 at 10:13 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Valerie,

      Thanks for the question! I hate to say it, but I am guessing you are a mix of Fawn and Natural (as I am for most of the year) as the combination of the 2 equals the KGD #213.

      I know that's expensive but you will have endless options between the two shades!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      June 14, 2015 at 6:10 am
  • Anonymous Reply

    Dear Rachel, how does the finish and longevity of TF Traceless Perfecting fare in comparison to Kanebo Sensai Cellular cream foundation? Thanks!

    June 16, 2015 at 11:17 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello!

      The TF Traceless Perfecting is slightly less dewy than the Kanebo Sensai Cream but it lasts longer (esp. in warm weather and humidity) than any foundation I've encountered thus far!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      June 18, 2015 at 11:06 pm
  • Unknown Reply

    Awesome blog! Very helpful for people like me who would need to drive 3 hrs just to get my hands on these. Im currently wearing estee lauder 3n1 ivory beige, what color do u think would match in tom ford's traceless foundation??? Thankyou in advance! ☺️

    August 9, 2015 at 11:05 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thanks, Jermaine! I would suggest either Bisque or Natural as the closest options!

      Hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 10, 2015 at 8:38 pm
  • Unknown Reply

    I know this post is from last summer but this is a great review. The Tom Ford line caught my eye while I was at Neimans last weekend getting samples of Armani Luminous Silk. Which do you prefer, TF or Armani LS? I'm a tough color match with being tan but the 5 Natural seems like a good match just from your article. Thanks in advance, love your blog!

    August 22, 2015 at 3:29 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Colleen,

      Thank you, Colleen! I prefer the TF as the coverage and lasting power are both better on my sensitive, combination skin!

      I truly hope that helps…xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      August 24, 2015 at 9:02 pm
  • Unknown Reply

    I can't believe I just discovered your blog! Amazing! Absolutely love it!
    So, Ms. Beauty Professor. I need your beauty expertise. I use Nars sheer glow in the color Santa Fe what colors would you suggest in both stick foundation and TF dewy version foundation (forgot the name of the foundation) thank you so much for your time!

    March 15, 2016 at 6:00 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      So glad you found your way here, Natalie! Thanks for the kind words!

      With regards to your question, I would recommend Natural in the liquid versions and Bisque in the stick!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      May 15, 2016 at 4:58 am
  • Unknown Reply

    Hello!!! I am new to ur blog…. And I am SOOO excited to have found u!!! I'm constantly searching the Web for foundation info and reviews and up til now, the results have been sub par, at best… U, my dear, ROCK!!
    So, I'm hoping u can help me out…. Due to ur amazing reviews, I have decided I MUST try this TF foundation and also the By Terry Cover expert that u spoke so highly of…These formulations sound perfect and exactly what I'm looking for… The finish and especially the long wearing!! I just need to decide on which shades… Of course, I live no where near an actual retailer for either brand… So I have to order online 🙁 I have medium skin tone with redness and some hyperpigmentation… I tan easily but due to the pink/red in my skin, I have been told I'm more neutral than cool or warm… KVD in medium 58 is a pretty good match… Becca in noisette is a tad light but not bad after I apply bronzer… Hopefully that will help u with providing suggestions for both the TF and the by Terry… I sooo appreciate ur help and ur AMAZING blog! So so happy to be here!!! Thanks for all u do!!!
    Gaby

    September 26, 2016 at 8:03 pm
  • Kelsey Reply

    Hi BP,

    I would just like to say I love your blog! Keep up the good work, I'm an nc40-nc41 in Mac studio fix foundation ! What shade would I be in Tom ford perfecting foundation? And which one do you prefer out of the stick and liquid? I'm torn out of which one to get as I like more of a satin look.

    October 18, 2016 at 1:01 am

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