If you have hooded eyes, you know that applying eyeshadow can be tricky. Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that covers the crease, making the eyelid look smaller. This means regular eyeshadow techniques might not work well for you. But don’t worry! With the right steps, you can make your eyes pop. The key is to create depth and lift the eyes so that your eyeshadow stays visible even when your eyes are open.
Start by using a light base shade to brighten the lid, then add darker shades to the outer corner and crease to create dimension. Always blend well to avoid harsh lines. Using shimmer on the inner corner can help open up the eyes, while matte shades work best for the crease. With these simple tricks, you can enhance your hooded eyes beautifully.

10 Easy Tips for Eyeshadow on Hooded Eyes
- Use an eyeshadow primer – Prevents creasing.
- Apply light shades first – Brightens the lid.
- Darken the outer corner – Adds depth.
- Blend upwards – Lifts the eyes.
- Avoid heavy shimmer on the lid – Can make eyes look droopy.
- Highlight the brow bone – Defines the eyes.
- Use thin eyeliner – Keeps the lid visible.
- Try a winged liner – Creates a lifting effect.
- Keep lower lash line light – Avoids a heavy look.
- Set with translucent powder – Reduces smudging.
1. Understanding Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyes have an extra layer of skin that droops over the crease, making the eyelid less visible. This can make eyeshadow disappear when the eyes are open. The trick is to apply eyeshadow in a way that enhances the natural shape. Instead of following traditional techniques, focus on lifting the eyes by blending shadows upwards. This helps create the illusion of a bigger lid space.
2. Prepping Your Eyes with Primer
Primer is a must for hooded eyes because it keeps eyeshadow in place. Without primer, oils from the skin can cause eyeshadow to crease. Apply a small amount and blend it evenly across the lid. This helps colors stay vibrant and prevents fading. A good primer also makes blending easier and ensures your eyeshadow lasts all day.
3. Choosing the Right Eyeshadow Colors
Lighter shades make the eyes appear bigger, while darker shades add depth. For hooded eyes, use matte shades in the crease and a soft shimmer on the inner corner. Avoid too much glitter on the lid, as it can make the eyes look heavier. Neutral tones like browns and taupe’s work well for everyday looks.
4. Applying Eyeshadow to Create Depth
Start with a light base color on the lid. Then, use a medium shade in the crease, blending slightly above the natural fold. Add a darker shade to the outer corner and blend well. This technique makes the eyes look more open and defined.
5. The Importance of Blending
Blending is key for hooded eyes. Harsh lines can make the eyes look smaller. Use a fluffy brush to soften edges and create a seamless transition between colors. Blend in upward motions to lift the eyes.
6. Eyeliner Tricks for Hooded Eyes
Thick eyeliner can hide the lid, so opt for a thin line. A small wing at the outer corner helps lift the eyes. You can also tightline (apply liner between lashes) to define the eyes without taking up lid space.
7. Using Highlight to Brighten Eyes
A touch of highlighter on the brow bone and inner corner makes the eyes pop. This trick brings light to the eyes, making them look more awake. Avoid shimmery shades on the hooded area to prevent a heavy look.
8. False Lashes and Mascara Tips
Curled lashes open up hooded eyes. Use waterproof mascara to hold the curl. False lashes with a winged effect can also lift the eyes. Avoid overly thick lashes that weigh down the lids.
9. Fixing Common Mistakes
A common mistake is applying too much dark shadow, which can make eyes look smaller. Another error is not blending enough, leaving harsh lines. Always check your makeup with your eyes open to ensure the shadow is visible.
10. Final Setting Spray Tips
A setting spray keeps everything in place. Lightly mist your face after makeup to prevent smudging. This step is especially helpful for hooded eyes, where makeup can transfer more easily.

FAQs About Eyeshadow for Hooded Eyes
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Can I wear shimmer eyeshadow on hooded eyes? | Yes, but only on the inner corner or center of the lid. Avoid the crease. |
How do I prevent eyeshadow from creasing? | Use a good primer and set with powder. |
Should eyeliner be thick or thin for hooded eyes? | Thin liner works best to keep the lid visible. |
What’s the best eyeshadow shape for hooded eyes? | Blend upwards in a “windshield wiper” motion to lift the eyes. |
Do hooded eyes need false lashes? | Not necessary, but wispy lashes can help open up the eyes. |
By following these tips, you can master eyeshadow for hooded eyes and create stunning looks every time.