Applying eye makeup for hooded eyes involves techniques that help create the illusion of a more open, lifted eye. Start by preparing the eyelids with a primer to ensure the makeup stays in place and doesn’t smudge. Use a light, matte shade on the lid to brighten the area and a slightly darker matte shade to create a contour above the natural crease, which can be difficult to see on hooded eyes. Blend the darker shade upwards to give the appearance of a lifted lid. Add a shimmer or light shade to the inner corner to open up the eyes, and keep eyeliner thin and close to the lash line to avoid closing off the eyes. Finish with mascara to emphasize the lashes and complete the look.
Prepping the Eyelids
Before applying any makeup, it’s essential to prepare the eyelids to ensure your eye makeup lasts all day and stays crease-free. Start by cleansing your eyelids to remove any excess oils and applying an eyeshadow primer. The primer helps to create a smooth canvas for the eyeshadow, prevents creasing, and enhances the color payoff. If you don’t have an eyeshadow primer, a small amount of concealer set with translucent powder can also work effectively. Prepping your eyelids properly sets the foundation for a flawless eye makeup application.
Choosing the Right Eyeshadows
Selecting the right eyeshadows is crucial for hooded eyes. Opt for matte shades for the crease and outer corners, as shimmer shades can emphasize the hooded area and create unwanted highlights. Light, neutral colors work well for the base, helping to brighten the eyelids and create a more open look. Darker, matte shades are perfect for defining the crease and adding depth. Avoid very dark shades on the entire lid, as they can make the eyes appear smaller. Instead, use darker colors sparingly to contour and enhance the shape of your eyes.
Creating the Illusion of a Crease
For hooded eyes, the natural crease can often be hidden when the eyes are open. To create the illusion of a higher crease, use a transition shade slightly darker than your skin tone. With a fluffy blending brush, apply this shade just above your natural crease, blending it upwards and outwards. This technique helps to lift the eyes and create more visible depth. The key is to blend well to avoid harsh lines and achieve a seamless gradient that mimics a natural shadow.
Highlighting the Brow Bone
Highlighting the brow bone is an effective way to enhance the eye area and create the illusion of more space. Use a light, matte or satin-finish eyeshadow to highlight directly under the arch of your eyebrow. This step not only lifts the brow but also adds dimension to the overall eye makeup look. Be careful not to use overly shimmery or glittery shades, as they can draw too much attention to the hooded area and make the eyes appear more closed off.
Applying Eyeliner Strategically
When applying eyeliner to hooded eyes, it’s important to keep the line thin and close to the lash line. A thick line can make the eyelids look heavier and the eyes smaller. For a subtle enhancement, use a pencil or gel liner and tightline the upper waterline. This technique adds definition without taking up lid space. If you prefer a winged eyeliner look, start the wing where the hood of the eye ends and angle it upwards to lift the eyes. Ensure the wing is thin and delicate to avoid overpowering the lid.
Accentuating the Lower Lash Line
To balance the eye makeup, adding some definition to the lower lash line can be very effective. Use a small brush to apply a soft, matte eyeshadow in a medium shade along the lower lash line. Blend it out to soften the edges and create a natural, diffused look. Avoid using very dark colors or heavy eyeliner on the lower lash line, as it can make the eyes look smaller. A little definition here helps to open up the eyes and create a cohesive look with the upper lid.
Using Shimmer and Highlight Sparingly
Shimmer eyeshadows can be tricky for hooded eyes, but they can still be used strategically. Apply shimmer or metallic shades to the center of the lid or the inner corner to bring light and dimension to the eyes. Avoid placing shimmer directly on the hooded area, as it can emphasize the fold and make the eyes look more closed. A subtle shimmer on the inner corners helps to brighten the eyes and make them appear more awake and open.
Emphasizing the Lashes
Full, voluminous lashes are essential for hooded eyes, as they help to open up the eyes and draw attention away from the hooded area. Use an eyelash curler to lift your lashes before applying mascara. Opt for a lengthening and volumizing mascara to enhance your lashes further. Apply the mascara from the roots to the tips, focusing on the outer lashes to create a more lifted look. For extra drama, consider applying false lashes or individual lash clusters to add fullness and length.
Grooming and Filling in Brows
Well-groomed brows can significantly impact the overall look of hooded eyes. Shape your eyebrows to create a clean, defined arch that complements your eye shape. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder, using light, feathery strokes to mimic natural hairs. Defined brows help to frame the eyes and can create the illusion of a larger, more open eye area. Avoid overly thick or dark brows, as they can make the eyes appear more closed off.
Finishing Touches
After completing your eye makeup, ensure everything is blended seamlessly. Use a clean blending brush to go over any harsh lines and soften the edges. Set your eye makeup with a setting spray to keep it in place throughout the day. This step helps to lock in the makeup and prevents it from creasing or smudging. The finishing touches make a significant difference in the longevity and overall appearance of your eye makeup, ensuring that your hooded eyes look their best.
Summary
Applying eye makeup for hooded eyes requires specific techniques to enhance and open up the eyes. By preparing the eyelids, choosing the right eyeshadows, strategically applying eyeliner, and emphasizing the lashes and brows, you can create a look that highlights your eye shape beautifully. Remember to blend well and use light, matte shades to avoid drawing attention to the hooded area. With practice and the right tools, you can achieve stunning eye makeup looks that make your eyes appear more open and lifted.