Hooded eyes are a beautiful facial feature where natural folds partly conceal the lids. This unique trait may add depth and mystery to your gaze, but it can also make everyday makeup more challenging. Those with this eye shape notice their eye shadow fading or mascara smudging by midday. If these scenarios sound like part of your life, we’ve got the solutions you’ve been looking for. This guide shares seven steps on how to apply makeup on hooded eyes to help you keep the shadow visible and create the lifted shape you’ve been chasing.
Makeup for Hooded Eyes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
We’ll show you how to line without losing lid space and share tricks to help define your almond-shaped eyes.
Step 1: Prime Your Eyelids
Apply an eyeshadow primer or dab a little concealer on the lids. Then, tap the product evenly and set with a light dusting of translucent powder.
Step 2: Create a New Crease with Matte Shadow
Choose a matte neutral shade that’s slightly darker than your skin tone. Apply it just above your natural crease to make the eye look more open.
Step 3: Blend Upwards, Not Outwards
Using a clean brush, softly blend the shadow upward toward the brow bone. Avoid dragging it sideways to prevent the eyes from looking droopy.
Step 4: Apply Eyeliner Thinly
Thick liner tends to swallow lid space. Instead, grab a pencil or gel liner then trace a thin line right along your lash bed. Finish with a short upward flick at the outer corner to instantly lift and elongate the eye.
Step 5: Add Shimmer to the Center Lid
Place a little shimmer or metallic shadow right onto the center of your lid. The hint of sparkle makes your eyes look wider and more awake.
Step 6: Highlight Inner Corner and Brow Bone
Use a soft pearl or champagne highlight and apply it on the inner corners of your eyes and just under the brow arch for some definition.
Step 7: Finish with Mascara and Setting Spray
Curl lashes, apply mascara, and add half lashes on the outer corners for extra lift. Finally, lock everything in with a light mist of setting spray.
Final Touch
Hooded eyes are already naturally striking, so there’s no need to “fix” them. But if you want to experiment with different shadows and palettes for a more lifted appearance, this tutorial is a good starting point. The steps above will help you get that refreshed look you’ve always wanted.
Try these techniques and see the difference for yourself. Share your look with us in the comments below.
FAQs
1: What is the best eyeliner style for hooded eyes?
A thin line drawn close to the lashes works best. A small upward flick at the outer corner adds lift without hiding under the fold.
2: Should I avoid shimmer if I have hooded eyes?
Not at all! Shimmer works beautifully when placed on the center of the lid or inner corner. Just keep the crease matte to maintain definition.
3: How do I stop mascara from smudging on hooded eyes?
Use a waterproof or tubing mascara and curl your lashes before applying. Setting your lids with powder or primer also helps reduce transfer.
