DCYPHER CUSTOM FOUNDATION REVIEW
Would you trust AI to create your perfect foundation shade?
With ‘mixed to measure’ cosmetics set to reshape the beauty industry, here’s something to think about…
Dcypher’s Custom Foundation
The concept: Using world-first beauty AI, every bottle of Dcypher foundation is made to match your skin. In other words, this is a bespoke foundation shade formulated for your skin tone, skin type, preferred finish and coverage. Just answer three easy questions and scan your face using the camera on any digital device.
Shade range: More than 70,000 custom shades have been created. No shade range — it’s literally made for you.
Complimentary products:
My Custom Concealer which is formulated to your unique skin tone to conceal or brighten
My Custom Drops can be added to your moisturiser to create a bespoke tinted moisturiser
Custom Glow Booster which is a ‘complexion booster’ made to match your exact skin tone — somewhere between a primer and tinted moisturiser
Price: £39
Vegan and Cruelty free: Yes
How does it work/ how do I order my Dcypher Custom Foundation?
Start by heading to their website here: Dcypher’s Custom Foundation
Fill in their short quiz
Choose your preferred coverage — matte, natural or radiant
Pick your preferred finish — sheer, medium or full
State your skin type — oily/combo, balanced or dry
Analyse your skin tone by scanning your face using the camera on any digital device. No glasses, no makeup, good lighting, and keep your hair pulled back!
You will see your ‘Skin Tone Analysis’ — in other words, where you sit on the scale of depth, vibrancy and undertone which makes up your signature shade. You’ll be given numbers on a scale
Add your Custom Foundation to basket. Easy.
Some points to watch out for:
Given the sheer speed of the ‘Skin Tone Analysis’ process — it literally takes two seconds — I was skeptical about its efficacy. Was it really ‘seeing’ me or just whipping some impressive numbers out of the ether? The investigative journalist in me devised something of a booby trap… I compared the results given to me on my iPhone vs. laptop camera/ and at different times of day when the lighting was slightly different. And I can reveal… the numbers in my Skin Tone Analysis were pretty much like-for-like. Perhaps a little bit warmer on the iPhone camera
Verdict
This process removes the usual trial-and-error of buying foundation online — by using AI and the selfie scanning process you get a truly personalised tone and undertone (unlike products with standard and sometimes limited shade ranges).
The trial-first system and shade match guarantee is a major selling point — if your custom product doesn't perfectly match your skin tone, Dcypher will remake it for free. You have 14 days from delivery to request this (even if you've opened and used the product).
The formula has skincare benefits — including hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration. skin barrier-supporting emollients and antioxidant extracts. It feels both nourishing and moisturising upon application.
All in all, I was so impressed with my match and the seamlessness of the process.
Does it last all day?
Yes, it’s incredible — even longer if you pick a darker shade.
What is the colour like?
I tried 4 shades in total (XOXO, Whimsical, Lovely and Hush). Each of these gave a very natural looking lip colour that was flattering to the complexion.
How do I choose the best shade of Wonderskin lip stain for me?
The lip stain works with your own shade of lips to create a colour that is suited to you — so you can’t go hugely wrong. If you want the longest wear, opt for the deeper shades. I found them to have more staying power. I would also recommend contouring the lips by applying multiple shades — place a lighter shade at the centre and a deeper shade at the lip line.
What is the finish like?
The texture is flat and no different to your usual lips. With this in mind, you may want to apply gloss after for a more dramatic look.
Does the product require top-ups or maintenance throughout the day?
No. However, you may wish to apply balm or gloss to give a more plump, hydrated texture.
Can Wonderskin lip stain be used as a multitasker?
You can also use the lip stain as blush. Only for the brave. It’s so pigmented that the key would be getting it to look diffused over the skin (like a powder blush) - perhaps using a damp beauty blender.
SOS?
You have to be very accurate and careful with the application of this product. It really does stain the lips and is extremely hard to get off. Don’t use it for the first time before an important event or job interview. To remove Wonderskin lip stain, your best bet is to use an oil-based face cleanser or an oil-based makeup remover that takes off waterproof cosmetics.
So is it worth the hype:
Yes!