How to Choose Scrubs Color According to Skin Tone?
If the organization's color code doesn't limit your options, a color family that matches your skin undertone will make you look more refreshed throughout the day. Find your undertone with two simple tests and compare the colors to sample models.
Short Answer: Which Color Suits You?
Short answer: First, look at your skin's undertone (warm, cool, or neutral), then try the color palette that matches that tone. This isn't a rule, it's a guideline. If your organization has specified a color palette, follow that rule first and look for the right shade within that palette.
First, check the company's color code.
Many hospitals and clinics determine uniform colors according to their specific units. If such a rule exists, your options are already limited. We explained the unit-specific colors in our article "Ministry of Health New Uniform Colors ," and the general meanings of the colors in our article "Scrubs Colors and Meanings ."
Two Simple Tests to Understand Your Undertone
Vascular test
Look at the veins on the inside of your wrist in natural light. If they appear greenish, the undertone is most likely warm; if they appear blue or purple, it's cool; and if they appear a mixture of both, it may be neutral.
Jewelry test
Which jewelry makes your skin look more vibrant, gold or silver? Gold generally looks good with warm undertones, silver with cool undertones; both can look good in neutral tones.
Light and environmental conditions influence the results. View the results as clues, not definitive conclusions.
Color Families Based on Undertone
| Undertone | Generally compatible color families |
|---|---|
| Hot | Khaki, army green, terracotta, beige, mink, dark brown, coral tones |
| Cold | Navy blue, petrol blue, royal blue, purple, cherry red, anthracite, emerald green |
| Neutral | Both warm and cool colors; balanced tones such as black, gray, sage, and grass green. |
These are general trends. Since the darkness and vibrancy of a color also play a role, it may be necessary to experiment with different shades within a color family.
Example Models for Warm Undertones
Earthy and warm tones
Example Models for Cool Undertones
Shades of blue and purple
Example Models for Neutral Undertones
Balanced tones
View the Lycra Black Mandarin Collar Scrubs Jersey Product → 
View the Lycra Light Grey Mandarin Collar Scrubs Jersey Product → 
View the Lycra Light Green Mandarin Collar Scrubs product → 
View the Lycra Grass Green Mandarin Collar Scrubs product →See the Scrubs Tools page for all color options and current stock; stock changes over time.
Additional Points to Consider When Choosing a Color
Brief Summary
- When choosing scrub colors, first check your organization's color code.
- Skin undertone is a key factor in choosing scrub color.
- Earth tones with warm undertones and blue tones with cool undertones can be tried as scrub colors.
- Neutral undertones of black, gray, and green offer a balanced scrub color.
- Hospital lighting can alter the shade of scrubs that appear.
- When choosing scrub colors, consider stain resistance and ease of care.
- Choosing the right scrub color works best when combined with a good formula.
- When choosing scrub colors, try the same shade under different lighting conditions.
- The color of the scrubs should make your skin look refreshed.
- Compare two or three different shades for your scrubs.
- If the scrub color has been determined, adjust the shade accordingly.
- Comparing photos can be helpful when choosing scrub colors.
- The color of scrubs may appear different in a hospital setting.
- As scrubs get darker in color, lint and dust marks become more visible.
- As the scrubs become lighter in color, the stain becomes more visible.
- Don't rush when choosing the color of your scrubs.
- Before deciding on the color of your scrubs, take a picture and compare it.
- Scrub color should not conflict with company guidelines.
- You can browse the collection to choose your scrub color.
Terminology Notes
Examine the colors closely.
You can compare all color options on the collection page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scrub Color
Which scrub shade suits everyone based on skin tone?
There is no single color that suits every skin tone. Simple colors like navy, black, and gray look balanced on most people; however, this can vary depending on the lighting and undertone.
I'm not sure about my skin undertone, how should I choose a scrub shade?
You can opt for neutral colors or try two or three colors and compare their photos. Please check the return and exchange conditions before purchasing: Cancellation and Return Policy .
If my company has specified colors, how do I choose the scrub color?
Compare different shades within the specified color family. For example, if blue is specified, you can choose the one that suits you best among navy blue, petrol blue, or royal blue.
Which scrub shade is suitable for someone with dark skin?
It depends on the undertone. Earth tones can be tried with warm undertones, while blue and purple families can be used with cool undertones. Comparing it to a photograph is the most reliable way.
Do light-colored scrubs show stains more?
Yes, lighter colors make stains more noticeable. For more information, see our article "How to Remove Stubborn Stains?" .
Do the meanings of colors matter when choosing scrub colors?
In some organizations, colors represent a unit or title. For a general overview, read the article Scrubs Colors and Their Meanings .
How to consider scrub color and mold selection together.
Yes. For fit, hem, and collar details, see the Choosing Scrubs by Body Type and Size guide.