Hooded eyes are characterized by a fold of skin that partially covers the eyelid, giving the appearance of smaller eyes. Many individuals with hooded eyes often struggle with eye makeup application.
However, with the right techniques and products, you can enhance your features and create stunning eye looks.
Makeup Tips For Hooded Eyes
Prep and Prime:
Before applying any makeup, it's crucial to prepare your hooded eyelids. Start by cleansing your face and moisturizing the eye area. Then, use an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth canvas and prevent creasing. This step ensures that your eye makeup stays in place throughout the day.
Lift and Define with Eyeshadow:
To make your hooded eyes appear more lifted and defined, focus on using eyeshadow strategically. Begin by applying a light shade or a neutral matte color all over the lid, from lash line to brow bone. Next, choose a medium-toned shade and blend it into the crease, slightly above the hooded area. This creates the illusion of a higher crease and adds dimension to the eyes. Finally, apply a darker shade along the lash line to enhance the definition.
Embrace the Power of Eyeliner:
Eyeliner is a game-changer for hooded eyes. Opt for a thin, precise line along the upper lash line to define the eyes without overpowering them. Avoid thick or heavy lines that can make your eyes look smaller. For added drama, extend the eyeliner slightly past the outer corner of the eye in a subtle wing.
Highlight the Brow Bone:
Highlighting the brow bone is an effective way to draw attention to your eyes and create the illusion of lifted lids. Choose a light, shimmery shade and apply it beneath the arch of your eyebrow. This technique helps to open up the eye area and make your eyes appear larger.
Curl Lashes and Use Mascara:
Curling your lashes is essential for hooded eyes, as it helps to create the illusion of more open eyes. Invest in a good eyelash curler and use it before applying mascara. When it comes to mascara, choose a lengthening and volumizing formula that lifts and separates the lashes. Applying mascara to both the upper and lower lashes can further define your eyes.
Avoid Excessively Dark Eyeshadows:
While smoky eyes can be alluring, using excessively dark eyeshadows on hooded eyes can make them appear even smaller. Instead, opt for softer, medium-toned shades that add depth without overwhelming your eye shape. Experiment with different shades to find the ones that best complement your eye color and skin tone.
Use Waterproof Formulas:
Hooded eyes are more prone to smudging and transfer due to the constant contact between the eyelid and the fold of skin. To prevent makeup mishaps, choose waterproof or long-wearing formulas for eyeliners, eyeshadows, and mascaras. These products will help your eye makeup stay put throughout the day, without smudging or fading.
Experiment with Different Eyeshadow Placements:
Don't be afraid to experiment with different eyeshadow placements to find what works best for your hooded eyes. Try applying eyeshadow higher up on the lid, closer to the brow bone, to create the illusion of a larger lid space. You can also experiment with a halo eyeshadow technique, where you focus the majority of the color on the center of the lid.