Hooded and small eyelids can pose unique challenges not only for makeup beginners but for season makeup artists as well. As an owner of uneven, slightly hooded eyes, I know the frustration this eye shape causes. The limited space between the brow bone and the visible lashline makes it harder to find a certain makeup technique that works on hooded and small eyelids.
But fear not, as there are plenty of clever ways and tips that can make your hooded eyes pop and create the illusion of larger, more defined lids. For today's guide, I've compiled my favorite 10 eye makeup tips for all of us with small and hooded eyelids. Some of them I picked while watching makeup experts, while others came to me after years of makeup practice. Hopefully, these tips and tricks will help you enhance your eye makeup game, effortlessly apply makeup to hooded eyes, and simply make your eye look even more attractive.
#1. Pick Matte Eyeshadows instead of Shimmering Finishes
For hooded and small eyelids, matte eyeshadows are your best friend. Shimmering finishes can accentuate the hooded area and make it even more prominent (because they reflect light, attracting more attention). Matte eyeshadows, on the other hand, create a soft, subtle depth that can make your eyes appear larger and more defined. Opt for neutral matte shades to add dimension to your lids without overwhelming them.
#2. Consider a Smudged, Pencil Eyeliner Look
Ditch the harsh, precise lines of liquid eyeliner and embrace a smudged, pencil eyeliner look. This makeup (widely used for fox eyeliner) technique softens the appearance of your eyes and creates a sultry, smoky effect that complements hooded lids beautifully. Apply a pencil eyeliner close to the lash line and use a smudging brush or a cotton swab to blend and smudge the line for a more natural and flattering result.
#3. Play with Under-eye, Lower Lash Line Makeup
Don't neglect your lower lash line when doing eye makeup for hooded and small eyelids. Applying eyeshadow or eyeliner to the lower lash line can draw attention to your eyes and balance the overall look. Use any eyeshadow you like (shimmering, matte, pearly), and opt for colors that compliment your eyes.
#4. Perfect the Cut Crease Eye Makeup Technique
The cut crease technique is a game-changer for hooded lids. It involves creating a well-defined crease by applying a darker eyeshadow slightly above the natural crease line. You can use a sharpened pencil to make a well-defined line of your new crease or pick a more subtle, eyeshadow approach. Blend the crease line for a seamless transition between colors.
Makeup artist Wayne Goss has a bunch of useful makeup tutorials for hooded eyelids, where he explains and shows how to deal with eyeshadow application on small, hooded, and saggy skin. I highly recommend you take some time and practice his makeup techniques.
#5. Draw Small and Thin Eyeliner Flick
Of course, we all love a good bold, and thick eyeliner wing! However, creating a cat-eye or winged eyeliner look can be challenging with hooded and small eyelids. Instead of going for a bold, thick wing, opt for a smaller and thinner flick that follows the natural curve of your eyelid. This will elongate the eyes without overwhelming them.
#6. Don't Overpluck Eyebrows
Your eyebrows frame your eyes, so it's crucial to avoid overplucking, especially if you have small eyelids. Fuller brows create a more balanced look and draw attention away from the lid area. Consider consulting an eyebrow stylist or makeup professional for brow shaping to ensure they complement your eye shape.
#7. Be Careful with the Brow Bone Highlighter
While different types of highlighters of the brow bone can enhance your eyes, be cautious not to overdo it. A subtle highlight under the arch of your brow can create dimension, but avoid applying too much product as it can bring unwanted attention to the hooded area. Use a small highlighter brush and lightly apply it to the skin.
#8. Make an Accent on Your Lashes
Luscious lashes can make a significant difference in opening up hooded and small eyelids. If you don't want to bother with eyeshadow techniques on hooded and small eyelids, go the other way. Curl your lashes before applying mascara to lift and emphasize your eyes. You can also consider using false lashes or eyelash extensions for added drama and dimension.
#9. Invest in a Lasting Eyeshadow Primer
A quality eyeshadow primer is essential for preventing creasing and keeping your eyeshadow in place all day. Look for a long-lasting formula that creates a smooth canvas for eyeshadow application. This step is especially crucial for hooded lids, as they are prone to smudging and creasing. Celebrity makeup artist and entrepreneur Huda Kattan claims that a good eye primer is key for hooded eyes: "It will help to create a smooth canvas for your makeup and prevent it from creasing or fading."
#10. Tighline the Upper Lash Line Instead of Using Eyeliner
And now for the last makeup tip for hooded eyes in today's compilation. For a more subtle yet effective way to define your eyes, consider tightening the upper lash line. Tighlining involves applying eyeliner or dark eyeshadow along the upper waterline, making your lashes appear thicker and your eyes more prominent. This technique creates a polished look without the need for a visible eyeliner line.
Let's conclude...
Well, that was a huge post, but I really hope some of you will find it useful. With these ten eye makeup tips tailored to hooded and small eyelids, you can embrace and celebrate your unique eye shape with confidence and even rock your favorite makeup looks! Remember, makeup is a versatile tool that allows you to enhance your natural beauty. Have fun!
Lots of love,
Liz
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