What term is often used to describe the subtle differences in skin tones?

The term "undertones" refers to the subtle hues that lie beneath the surface color of the skin, influencing the overall tone and appearance. Understanding undertones is crucial in esthetics, particularly when selecting the right makeup shades, skincare products, and hair colors that complement an individual's natural complexion.

Undertones can generally be categorized into three primary types: cool, warm, and neutral. Cool undertones typically have hints of blue or pink, while warm undertones lean towards yellow or golden hues. Neutral undertones can have a mix of both. By identifying these subtleties, estheticians can tailor their services to enhance the client's natural beauty effectively.

The other terms, such as textures, shades, and highlights, refer to different aspects of skin and color. Textures deal with the surface quality of the skin, indicating smoothness, roughness, or other characteristics, but do not relate to color. Shades pertain to the depth of color, which may encompass a wider range, and highlights describe the lighter areas that reflect light rather than the underlying tonal nuances. Thus, "undertones" is the most accurate term to describe the subtle differences in skin tones.