Hooded Eyes: What Are They And Its Makeup Ideas

Hooded Eyes are not so different than any other physical features that are a result of genetic traits visible on one's face. In most of the cases, this trait is seen in a person if his/her parents have this kind of eyelids.

What eye shape do I have, you ask? Here are some defining traits of the hooded eyes so you can figure out for yourself.

• Fold of Skin

People with hooded eyes have an extra layer of skin that droops over the crease which in turn covers the mobile eyelid either partially or fully. This creates a subtle and alluring look and adds depth to the eyes.

• Reduced Lid Visibility

The mobile eyelid is the main area where eyeshadow is typically applied. This may be less visible when the eyes are open due to the hooded skin.

• Altered Eye Shape

This physical trait often gives an impression of a smaller or more downturned eye shape. This is a unique contour where the crease is concealed giving an enigmatic gaze.

• Smaller Looking Eyes

Since the extra layer of skin covers a part of the eyeball, the lid can make the eyes look smaller. This illusion of reduced eye size is due to the partially covered upper eyelid.

What Causes The Hooded Eyes?

There are many factors at play that can cause the eyes to have a hooded appearance. Some of the major causes are listed here.

Genetics: Just like any other facial features, hooded eyes are largely determined by your genetics. If your parents or grandparents have hooded eyes then it is most likely to inherit them.

Excessive Sun Exposure: This is one of the causes that can lead to premature aging and contribute to hooded eyes. Excessive UV ray exposure can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin.

Fat Redistribution: The distribution of fat around the eyes can change over time which may lead some people to experience an increase in fat around the brow bone.

Aging: Aging is a natural process that causes a person's skin to lose elasticity and begin to sag. This phenomenon can lead to hooded eyes as the skin around the eyes becomes less taut.

Facial Expressions: Repetitive facial expressions and movements over a longer time period can contribute to the development of hooded eyes. One of the best examples is the constant eyebrow-raising.

The terms 'hooded eyes' and 'non-hooded eyes' simply refer to the way the skin on the eyelid is structured. These layers of skin make a difference in the appearance of the eyelid and several other factors.

Hooded Eyes

• The eyelid is partially or fully covered by a fold of skin which makes the eyelid less visible.
• You will get the appearance of smaller eyes when the eyes are open.
• Eyeliner and eyeshadow may transfer onto the upper lid when the eyes are open.
• Winged eyeliner can be challenging since the hood may hide the wing.
• This eye type benefits from techniques that emphasize the mobile lid when applying eyeshadow.

Non Hooded Eyes

• The eyelid is more visible and exposed when the eyes are open.
• The application of the eyeshadow and eyeliner is generally straightforward.
• Winged eyeliner is often easier to achieve since the natural shape of the eye is more apparent.
• Eyeshadow application may involve both the crease and the mobile lid since the crease allows for more versatility.
• Eyes tend to appear larger when they are open.

Hooded eyes are a harmless facial trait and don't require any sort of medical attention thus, there is no need to visit the doctor. However, you can take care of the droopiness of your eyelids at home by yourself.

1. Cucumber Slices Over The Lids

You can place chilled cucumber slices on your closed eyelids for about 15 minutes which is great for cooling. The chilled slices help to reduce the puffiness puffiness in your eyes.

2. Egg White Mask

Apply a thin layer of beaten egg white on your eyelids and leave it until it is dry and tightened on your skin before gently rinsing it off.

This temporary tightening effect can give an impression of lifted eyelids.

3. Chamomile Tea Bags

First, steep chamomile tea bags in hot water and let them cool, then place the cooled tea bags on your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling.

Makeup is an art that is all about enhancing your facial features in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Here are some techniques that could be helpful if you have hooded eyes.

1. Use Good Quality Eye Primer

Use a good quality eye primer to create a smooth base for eyeshadow. This way you can prevent creasing and ensure that your eye makeup stays in place.

Apply only a small amount evenly from lash to brow and focus on the hooded area. This will ensure a smooth canvas for eyeshadow and enhance color payoff and longevity.

2. Use Transition Shade 

Apply a neutral transition shade slightly above the natural crease to add dimension. Applying a matte transition shade slightly above the crease creates dimension.

Choosing the right transition shade is crucial for hooded eyes because it provides a seamless gradient. Opt for a slightly darker shade than your skin tone to define the crease and create dimension.

3. Opt For Lighter Eyeshadows

Lighter shades of eyeshadow for hooded eyes brighten and open up the eyes since darker shades can make hooded eyes appear smaller. It helps to enhance depth without unwanted shimmer.

Using lighter eyeshadows on the lid opens up hooded eyes. It brightens the eyes and counters the hooded effect that creates an illusion of larger eyes.

4. Blended Eyeshadows

Blend eyeshadows well to avoid harsh lines since soft and blended edges can create the illusion of larger and more defined eyes. This technique accentuates your beauty with a subtle and polished allure.

A seamless blend of eyeshadows, especially in the crease is good for hooded eyes. This softens harsh lines and prevents a heavy, weighed-down appearance.

5. Highlight the Inner Corner

Apply a light, shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes. This adds brightness and draws attention to the center of the eyes.

If you brighten the inner corners of hooded eyes with a highlighter, it gives you instantly awakens the eyes. This technique also draws attention away from the hooded area.

6. Outer V Definition

Define the outer V of your eyes with strategically placed darker shade to create the illusion of a lifted eye. This will maintain a seamless look and draw attention away from the lids. 

Applying a deeper shade in a V shape at the outer corners will lift and elongate the eyes. This creates a lifted and more almond-shaped eye appearance.

7. Tight Eyeliner Techniques

Consider using thinner lines or tight lining of the upper lash line to make the eyes look more open. Winged liners can work wonder if you can keep it subtle.

Use tight eyeliner techniques to avoid overshadowing hooded eyes. A thin line close to the lash line enhances the lash definition.

8. Avoid Heavy Bottom Eyeliner

Avoid applying heavy eyeliner to the lower lash line as it can emphasize the hooded appearance. Instead, focus on defining the upper lash line.

Focus on defining the upper lash line by avoiding heavy bottom eyeliner. Simply, keep it thin and close to the lash line to maintain a balanced look.

9. Curl Your Lashes

Curling your lashes lifts them and makes your eyes appear more open. You can follow this up with a lengthening or volumizing mascara for added impact.

Curling lashes are a game-changer since they create the illusion of more lid space. Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara for an instant eye-opening effect.

10. Use Shimmer Strategically

If you love shimmer, apply it carefully on the center of the lid to bring attention to the middle of the eyes. Avoid heavy shimmer on the brow bone and always remember to go for softer, light-reflecting shades.

A shimmer applied on the center of the lid and inner corners attracts light. Avoid placing shimmer in the crease, as this can accentuate the hooded effect.

11. Mascara Application

Mastering mascara is a game-changer for those with hooded eyes. Use a waterproof formula to avoid smudging and apply evenly on both upper and lower lashes to balance the look.

Keep your focus on the upper lashes to lift and open the eyes. Wiggle the mascara wand at the base of the lashes and extend outward for a lifted look.

12. Brow Grooming

Keep your eyebrows groomed and well-shaped too. A slightly arched brow can give the illusion of a lifted eye area.

This process plays a crucial role in enhancing the eyes and taming of unruly brows. Opt for a well-defined, slightly arched brow shape to lift and open the eyes.

13. Consider Eyelid Tape or Strips

Eyelid tape for hooded eyes for special occasions helps you explore designs to create a temporary crease that gives the appearance of a more defined eyelid.

The tape provides a temporary lift and creates a visible eyelid crease. Strategic use makes eyeshadow applications more accessible and allows for a more defined look.

14. Experiment with Eyeliner Styles

Play around with different eyeliner styles, such as a subtle wing or a soft smudged line, to find what works best for your eye shape.

Use thin and precise lines close to the lash line to avoid hiding the eyelid. A subtle wing can elongate the eyes while adaptive techniques ensure natural beauty.

15. Lower Lash Line

Softly define the lower lash line with a smudged line of eyeshadow for balance. It is wise to use earthy tones for a subtle pop that can accentuate the lower lashes and make your eyes stand out.

Accentuating the lower lash line is key for hooded eyes which can be obtained by using soft, smudge-proof eyeliner to define without closing off the eyes. Focus on highlighting and brightening the lower lash area for a balanced look.