Sometimes I use a Stay Matte foundation from Rimmel. It looks like this and is good because unlike a liquid foundation where you sort of choose your amount and commit to putting it on, you can use a small amount and then you can add more if you like.
Anyway, I like this one because it is matte like a powder, but sort of glides on using a sponge a bit like a liquid would. And if you don't like it, then you haven't outlaid too much money, but if you do like it, then awesome, and if you do but would like something more exy, at least it's given you an idea of colour.

When you're testing foundations, don't test it on the back of your hand, test it somewhere like your jawline, so you get an idea of the colour on your face.