This article has been updated since its initial publish date to include more expert insight.
Each individual’s eye shape is a distinctive and lovely feature of their appearance. Among these shapes, hooded eyes are often revered for their mysterious allure, yet they present a challenge when it comes to applying eye makeup. This is due to the prominence of the upper eyelid over the lower eyelid, which can obscure the space available for eye shadow and eyeliner application.
As a result, many popular makeup tutorials that feature dramatic eye makeup, such as the smoky eye and winged eyeliner, are often not as effective on hooded eyes and may disappear when the eyes are open. Adding to the challenge is the natural aging process, which can result in sagging skin and fine lines around the eyes.
However, this does not mean that individuals with hooded eyes should forego the exciting world of eye makeup altogether! Rather, it is a matter of finding a technique that caters specifically to this eye shape. Makeup artists have provided a technique that accentuates the eye, making it appear more prominent despite the challenges of hooded eyes. Read on for tips, suggestions and insight from Kerrin Jackson, celebrity, film and television makeup artist and creator of The Makeup Refinery blog.
Pro Tip #1. Contour Hooded Eyes Like You Would Your Cheekbones
While you may typically associate contour makeup with accentuating the cheekbones, it's important to note that the same principle can be applied to enhancing the appearance of the eyes.
"To put it simply, the contour trick means creating the illusion of depth on a part of your eyelid that doesn’t naturally have depth. ie. your hooded eyelid," Jackson explains.
"By using the right product and the right brush," she adds, "you can very quickly and easily create this look on your own hooded eyelids." According to Jackson, contouring your hooded eyelids can aid in achieving a youthful appearance through enhancing the definition and form of your eye shape.
#2. Use A Shade Darker Than Your Eyelid
Additionally, it can help in reducing the impact of loose skin that often leads to the formation of hooded eyelids. "By using a shade that’s slightly darker than the skin on your eyelid, you can help make that skin recede," Jackson notes.
If you tend to opt for a more natural makeup approach and shy away from the heavy, glamorous looks often associated with the Kardashian family, rest assured that this particular look is suitable for a professional work environment.
The Bottom Line
"In recent times has been popularized by the likes of Kim Kardashian, and taken to the extreme by way of social media, but applying it in a very subtle and natural way, can really help to create the illusion of ‘lift’ and depth on your eyelids," Jackson concludes.
Sounds worth a try to us!
