Hooded Eyes vs. Non-Hooded Eyes: How to Tell the Difference and Makeup Tips

When it comes to eye shapes, understanding yours can make a world of difference in how you approach makeup and beauty. Among the various shapes, hooded eyes often generate questions about what they are and how they differ from other eye types, such as non-hooded eyes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what hooded eyes are, how to identify them, makeup tips tailored for this eye shape, DIY lash solutions, celebrity inspirations, and the best eyelash styles for hooded eyes.

What Are Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes are characterized by a fold of skin that droops over the crease of the eyelid, making the eyelid appear smaller or hidden when the eyes are open. This feature can be present from birth or develop with age as skin loses elasticity. Unlike other eye shapes, hooded eyes can make applying makeup slightly more challenging, as the lid space is less visible.

Key Characteristics of Hooded Eyes:

  • The eyelid crease is often obscured by the upper eyelid.
  • The area above the crease may appear puffy or heavy.
  • Eyelid space may seem limited when the eyes are open.

How to Identify Hooded Eyes

To determine if you have hooded eyes, follow these simple steps:

  1. Look straight into a mirror with relaxed facial muscles.
  2. Observe whether the skin of your upper eyelid covers part or all of your eyelid crease.
  3. If most of your eyelid is hidden when your eyes are open, you likely have hooded eyes.

Quick Test: Open your eyes wide and notice if your eyelid crease disappears or becomes hard to see. If it does, your eyes are likely hooded.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes have a prominent brow bone, and the skin of the upper eyelid partially or fully covers the eyelid crease when the eyes are open. This feature can be a genetic trait or develop with age. While some may see it as a challenge for makeup application, hooded eyes are often associated with a captivating and mysterious appearance.

Celebrity Inspirations with Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes are not uncommon and are often seen on some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic celebrities. Here are a few stars who embrace their hooded eyes and inspire us with their makeup choices:

  • Jennifer Lawrence: Known for her sultry red carpet looks, Jennifer often opts for bold eyeliner and lashes to enhance her hooded eyes.
  • Blake Lively: Blake uses soft, blended shadows to accentuate her natural crease and open up her eyes.
  • Taylor Swift: Taylor’s signature winged eyeliner is a masterclass in makeup for hooded eyes, emphasizing the outer corners.
  • Emma Stone: Emma’s use of shimmer and light shades on her lids brightens her eyes beautifully.

These celebrities prove that hooded eyes can be an asset with the right techniques and products. The next time you need some makeup inspo, look to these glamorous ladies for an eye makeup style that suits your eye shape. 

Makeup Tips for Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes can be stunning when you know how to work with them. Here are some tried-and-true makeup tips:

1. Prime Your Lids

Since hooded eyes are prone to smudging, always start with an eyeshadow primer to keep your makeup in place.

2. Use Light and Dark Shadows Strategically

Apply a light, shimmery shade on your lid to brighten the area and a darker matte shade just above the crease to create depth. Blend upward to avoid making your eyes look smaller.

3. Master the Winged Eyeliner

Focus on a thin line close to the lash line and extend it upward at the outer corners to lift the eyes.

4. Tightline for Extra Definition

Use a waterproof eyeliner to tightline your upper lash line, giving the appearance of fuller lashes without consuming lid space.

5. Focus on Lashes

Lashes can transform hooded eyes. Opt for long, wispy false lashes or DIY lash clusters for a natural lift. Avoid overly heavy styles, as they can weigh down your eyes.

6. Highlight the Brow Bone

A touch of highlighter under your brows can lift the eye area and create the illusion of more space.

Best DIY Lash Solutions for Hooded Eyes

False lashes can work wonders for hooded eyes, but the trick is finding styles that enhance your eyes without overwhelming them. DIY lash extensions are an excellent option, offering customization and a natural look.

Lash Styles to Consider:

  • Wispy Lashes:These lashes have varied lengths, adding dimension without looking too heavy.
  • Cat-Eye Lashes:Lashes that are longer at the outer corners create a lifted, elongated effect.
  • Natural Cluster Lashes:These allow you to control placement, emphasizing areas that need more volume.

Why Hooded Eyes Benefit from DIY Lashes

Hooded eyes often face challenges with mascara smudging or lash strips that don’t sit well on the limited lid space. DIY lashes solve these problems by:
  • Allowing for tailored placement.
  • Offering long-lasting wear with adhesives that don’t irritate the eye.
  • Providing lightweight options that don’t weigh down the lids.

Expert-Backed Eyelash Recommendations

Professional makeup artists recommend lightweight and wispy lashes for hooded eyes to maintain a natural appearance. Studies in beauty journals also suggest that lashes applied at the outer corners can visually "lift" hooded eyes, creating a more open and awake look【1】【2】.

3D Effect Natural Volume DIY Cluster Lash Extensions Kit

D03 — designed for a lightweight, wispy lift that opens up your eyes and creates a natural, stunning look. Perfect for easy, customizable application!

Self Adhesive Lashes Extensions Starter Kit 

SA01 — perfect for hooded eyes, this glue-free kit offers quick, hassle-free application with natural volume and a stunning, lifted effect.

Fairy Invisible Band Lash Clusters Kit

Fairy — ideal for hooded eyes, these lashes ensure a crease-free experience with their flexible invisible band. The varied lengths and delicate lash spikes prevent folding against your lids, delivering seamless volume and texture without the hassle. Gorgeous, effortless, and crease-proof!

References:

  1. Smith, J. (2022). Eye Shape Makeup: A Comprehensive Guide. Beauty Journal.
  2. Rodriguez, L. (2023). Enhancing Hooded Eyes with False Lashes. Makeup Artist Digest.