Makeup for drooping eyelids: step by step guide

Hooded eyelids can visually “hide” makeup and make its application more difficult. But with the right techniques, you can highlight your eyes beautifully and create an expressive look. In this guide from joy-pup.com, you’ll find simple and effective step-by-step tips for applying makeup to hooded eyes.

1. Prep the lids with a primer

The first and key step in hooded eye makeup is using an eye primer. This product creates a smooth base, extends the wear of eyeshadow, and prevents creasing — which is especially important for eyelids with excess skin that can cause smudging.

Apply a small amount of primer to your lids and blend it evenly with your fingertips or a flat brush. If you don’t have primer on hand, you can use concealer or foundation and set it with a light layer of translucent powder. This will help secure your eyeshadow and keep your makeup intact throughout the day.

2. Opt for matte eyeshadows

Matte eyeshadows are better suited for hooded eyes because they add depth and visually correct the eye shape. Shimmery or pearlescent shades can emphasize the hooding, making the eyelids appear heavier. Matte shadows, on the other hand, add volume and softness.

For a balanced look, apply a light matte shade to the mobile lid, a medium tone to the crease area, and a darker one to the outer corner of the eye. Use a soft blending brush to smooth transitions and avoid harsh lines. For a subtle highlight, you can add a touch of shimmer to the inner corner of the eye or under the brow.

3. Create a fake crease

With hooded eyes, the natural crease may be hidden, making shadow placement tricky. The solution is to create an artificial crease using darker shades.

Look straight into the mirror and determine where the new crease should go. Apply dark eyeshadow along this line with a small brush, following the natural shape of the eye. Blend the shadow upward — but not too close to the brow — to maintain balance. This will deepen the crease visually and make the eyes look more open.

4. Highlight your eyes with a light eyeliner

To make your eyes appear larger and more expressive, use a white or nude eyeliner on the waterline of your lower eyelid. This trick creates the effect of wider, more awake eyes.

Choose a pencil close to your skin tone or slightly lighter. Gently lift your eyelid and draw a line along the waterline, filling in the gaps between lashes. This not only enlarges the eyes visually but also creates more space for eyeshadow.

5. Be careful with eyeliner

Eyeliner for hooded eyes requires a special approach — to avoid overloading the lid or hiding the eyeshadow. Instead of thick lines or bold wings, opt for a thin liner.

Apply eyeliner from the center of the upper lash line, extending it slightly past the outer corner. This elongates the eye shape and adds definition. For a softer look, smudge the line gently or use a pencil liner instead of liquid.

6. Try a bold smoky eye

For an evening or daring look, go for a colorful smoky eye. This style uses rich tones (like emerald, blue, or burgundy) to create a gradient from light to dark.

Apply a light shade to the mobile lid, a medium one to the crease, and a dark shade to the outer corner. Blend the edges for a smooth transition. Line the upper and lower lash lines with dark eyeliner and smudge it slightly for a smoky effect. Finish the look with mascara and, optionally, light eyeliner on the lower waterline.

7. Add shimmer to the inner corners

An easy way to brighten your look is by highlighting the inner corners of the eyes. This draws attention to the eyes and makes them appear more open. Use a highlighter, shimmer shadow, or fine glitter in shades of gold, silver, or champagne.

Apply the product with a small brush or your fingertip to the inner corner of the eye near the tear duct. To enhance the effect, drag the shimmer slightly along the lower lash line. This adds contrast and makes the makeup look complete.

Read also: Draping — How to Master the Trendy Makeup Technique