Top Makeup Tips for Hooded Eyes Over 50

Hooded eyes, characterized by a fold of skin that droops over the crease, can make applying eye makeup a bit challenging.

However, with the right techniques and products, you can create stunning makeup looks for hooded eyes that accentuate your natural beauty. 

In this article, we’ll share some of the best makeup tips for hooded eyes. We'll also walk you through the essential steps to mastering hooded eye makeup, from preparing your base to applying mascara.

The products I'm using today are from the Look Fabulous Forever range, made specifically for mature skin. However, you can achieve the same results with any brand of product.

1. Preparing your base: the foundation of flawless eye makeup

The key to any great makeup look is a well-prepped base. For hooded eyes, using an eye primer is essential.

It not only helps your eye makeup stay in place but also neutralizes any discoloration on your eyelids, providing a smooth canvas for your eyeshadow.

Start by applying a tiny amount of eye primer to your lids. It’s important not to overdo it—a little goes a long way. The primer will dry quickly, creating a slightly chalky texture that grips your eyeshadow, ensuring it stays put throughout the day.

This step is crucial in any hooded eyes makeup tutorial, as it sets the stage for the rest of your look.

2. Choosing the right eyeshadow

When it comes to eyeshadow, matte shades are your best friend. Shimmer or sparkle can accentuate the droopiness of hooded eyes, so it’s best to opt for no-shimmer, matte eyeshadows.

For a classic look, select a palette with three complementary shades: a light shade for the lid, a medium shade for the socket line, and a dark shade for lining. Warm browns are an excellent choice for warm skin tones, while cool tones might prefer taupes or grays.

Begin by applying the lightest shade on top of the eye primer. This helps to open up the eyes by making the lid area appear larger and brighter. Then, apply the medium shade to the socket line. 

Here’s a pro tip: use a tissue or a cotton pad as a guide along the outer edge of your eye to create a lifted effect. This technique helps to define the crease and gives the illusion of deeper-set eyes, a key trick in hooded eye makeup.

3. Defining the crease: create the illusion of depth

One of the main challenges with hooded eyes is defining the crease. Since the natural crease is often hidden, you can create the illusion of depth by using the medium shade from your eyeshadow trio.

Apply this color slightly above your natural crease—where the fold begins—using a soft, blending brush. This placement helps to "fake" a higher crease, making your eyes appear more open.

Blend thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines, as smooth transitions between shades are vital for a polished look.

4. Lining the eyes: keep it subtle and strategic

When lining hooded eyes, avoid placing the eyeliner directly on the upper lid, as this can make your eyes appear smaller.

Instead, use a dark eyeshadow shade, like a deep plum or chocolate brown, and apply it just along the lash line.

For added definition, bring the liner slightly below the lower lash line. This technique not only enhances the eyes but also helps to lift the appearance of droopy lids.

Remember to blend the liner well to maintain a soft, natural look.

5. Highlighting: add a subtle glow

Adding a touch of highlight can further enhance your eye makeup for hooded eyes.

Choose a matte or satin-finish highlight pen and apply it in a C-shape under the brow bone, extending down towards the outer corner of the eye.

This step catches the light naturally when you move, adding dimension to your makeup without drawing attention to the hooded area.

The highlight also softens the edges of your eyeshadow, ensuring a seamless blend and a lifted look.

6. Filling in the brows: frame your eyes

Well-groomed brows are essential in framing your eyes, especially if you have hooded lids. Fill in any sparse areas with small, upward flicks starting from the middle of the brow towards the tail.

Ensure the tail of your brow ends at the outer corner of your eye, aligning with the natural shape of your face.

This step not only defines your brows but also complements the overall eye makeup, enhancing the illusion of lifted, more open eyes.

7. Finishing with mascara

Mascara is the final touch that brings the entire look together.

Opt for a lifting and curling mascara, applying it from the roots to the tips of your lashes. Focus on the outer corners to further enhance the lift effect created by your eyeshadow and liner.

If your lashes tend to droop, you can use a lash curler before applying mascara. However, even without curling, a good mascara will help open up the eyes, making them appear larger and more awake — essential for any makeup look for hooded eyes.