When it comes to makeup, the know-how is often the deciding factor between a flawless look and one that feels a bit off. Many people with hooded eyes have expressed frustration with makeup application, and this can sometimes take a toll on their confidence. If only they knew a few simple tricks, they could achieve a look that slays—just like Zendaya or Taylor Swift.
What are hooded eyes?
In case you’re still wondering, what exactly are hooded eyes? It’s when the upper eyelid partially or completely covers the crease, creating a distinct fold of skin. However, with the right techniques and products, you can enhance your natural beauty and make your eyes pop. Hooded eyes are more common than you might think, and many of our favorite celebrities have mastered how to make this eye shape work for them.
The fold can vary in severity; some people have a subtle hood, while others may have a more pronounced one that covers most of the lid. This feature can be genetic, or it can develop over time due to aging, as the skin loses elasticity and begins to sag.
Hooded eyes are a completely natural eye shape, found across all ethnicities and age groups. Some well-known celebrities with hooded eyes include Jennifer Lawrence and Blake Lively, both of whom consistently nail their makeup looks. This eye shape typically has a less visible eyelid crease, especially when the eyes are open, and often features a prominent brow bone that can overshadow the lid.
One common challenge with hooded eyes is that makeup, such as eyeliner or eyeshadow, can smudge or transfer due to the fold of skin. If this happens, it’s usually a sign that your technique needs a little adjustment.
Check out the best makeup tips for hooded eyes…
#1. Go with pro priming
Hooded eyes are prone to smudging and creasing, making proper priming essential. Use a high-quality eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base and extend the longevity of your makeup. Many primers now come with built-in color correction, such as green for redness or peach for dark tones, offering dual benefits for a flawless finish.
#2. Contour the crease
Since the natural crease can often be hidden, you can define it with makeup. Use a matte brown or taupe eyeshadow to contour just above your natural crease, then blend it upward for a lifted effect. This “fake crease” opens up the eye, creating the illusion of more visible lid space.
#3. Wing it
Traditional eyeliner often disappears under the fold of hooded eyes, but a winged style stays visible by extending beyond the lid. Opt for a waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner and draw a thin line along the lash line, extending it outward. Try the “bat wing” technique—adjusting the liner to follow the natural fold—to keep it crisp when your eyes are open.
#4. Brighten corners
Hooded eyes can sometimes appear smaller, so highlighting key areas can make a significant difference. Apply a shimmery champagne or pearl shadow to the inner corners of your eyes for an instant brightening effect. For a modern twist, try holographic highlighters, which add an extra pop to this area, creating a more open and fresh-eyed look.
#5. Highlight your brows
To create the illusion of more lid space, highlight your brows by applying a matte or satin shade just beneath the highest point of your brow arch. Avoid overly shimmery shades, as they can accentuate texture and make the area appear more pronounced.
#6. Pop with mascara
Lashes tend to get lost under a hooded eye, but the right mascara can bring them back into focus. Start by curling your lashes before applying a volumizing and lengthening mascara. Tubing mascaras are especially popular, offering smudge-proof wear that’s ideal for hooded eyes, ensuring your lashes stay defined all day.
#7. Remember your lower lash
Adding definition to the lower lash line helps balance the overall look and makes your eyes pop. Use a soft pencil or eyeshadow in a neutral or complementary color to gently define the lower lash line. Be sure to blend well to avoid a harsh line, creating a soft, seamless effect.
#8. Matte up
While shimmery shadows on the lid can accentuate the fold, sticking to matte shadows for most of the lid is a smarter choice. Reserve shimmer for accents like the inner corner or the center of the lid to create a beautiful halo effect. This approach enhances the eyes without drawing attention to the fold.
#9. Use soft tones
Hooded eyes can sometimes appear closed off, but a simple trick can make them look larger and more awake. Apply a nude or white pencil liner to the lower waterline for an instant brightening effect that opens up the eyes and gives a refreshed appearance.
#10. Stay set
The extra fold of skin on hooded eyes can cause makeup to break down more quickly. To prevent this, use a lightweight, translucent setting powder on your lids after applying primer and shadows. Finish the look with a long-lasting setting spray to lock everything in place and keep your makeup flawless all day long.
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In conclusion
Hooded eyes are beautiful and unique, and with the right techniques, you can truly highlight their natural charm. These hacks are not only stylish but also focus on precision, long-lasting formulas, and innovative products designed for all-day wear. Take time to experiment with these techniques and trends to discover what works best for you. Remember, practice makes perfect—and confidence will always be your best accessory.
Featured image: Chrisean Rose for Who What Wear
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