If you have hooded eyes and are over 50, this article is here to help you enhance your beautiful features with the right makeup techniques. Hooded eyes can create unique challenges when it comes to eye makeup, but with a few simple tricks, you can achieve a stunning and youthful appearance. Whether you’re looking to enhance your natural beauty or experiment with bold and glamorous looks, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover expert tips and techniques specifically tailored to suit your hooded eyes and make you feel confident and radiant at any age.
Choosing the Right Products
When it comes to makeup for hooded eyes over 50, selecting the right products is crucial. To ensure that your eye makeup stays put and flatters your unique features, there are a few key products that you should consider.
Consider Eye Primer
One of the most important products for hooded eyes is eye primer. This product creates a smooth base for your eyeshadow, helping it to adhere better and preventing it from creasing or smudging throughout the day. Look for a lightweight formula that is specifically designed for hooded eyes, as it will help to keep your eyeshadow in place and prevent it from migrating to the crease.
Opt for Creamy Eyeshadows
Creamy eyeshadows are a great choice for hooded eyes over 50. These formulas are easier to work with and blend seamlessly, making them ideal for creating various eye looks. Additionally, creamy eyeshadows have a higher level of pigmentation, which can help to enhance your eye color and make your makeup look more vibrant. Choose shades that complement your skin tone and eye color, and opt for a satin or matte finish for a more natural, sophisticated look.
Use Waterproof Eyeliner
Waterproof eyeliner is a must-have for hooded eyes, as it is resistant to smudging and transferring. This is especially important for those with mature skin, as the eyelids may be prone to creasing or becoming oily throughout the day. Look for a long-lasting formula that glides on effortlessly and has a rich, pigmented color. Whether you prefer a classic black or want to experiment with different shades, waterproof eyeliner will help define your eyes and add depth to your overall makeup look.
Select Lengthening Mascara
To make your hooded eyes appear more open and awake, it’s important to choose a mascara that provides length and definition. Look for a lengthening formula that has a thin wand, as this will allow you to reach even the shortest lashes and create a fluttery effect. Avoid mascaras that are too volumizing or heavy, as they can weigh down your lashes and make your eyes look smaller. Instead, opt for a lightweight formula that provides separation and enhances the natural length of your lashes.
Prepping the Eyes
Before diving into the fun part of applying eyeshadow and eyeliner, it’s essential to properly prep your eyes to ensure a smooth and long-lasting makeup application. Follow these steps to create the perfect canvas for your eye makeup.
Moisturize the Eye Area
Start by moisturizing the delicate skin around your eyes. This step is particularly important for mature skin, as it helps to plump and hydrate the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Use a lightweight eye cream or serum and gently pat it into the skin using your ring finger. Be sure to extend the moisturizer beyond the orbital bone to hydrate the entire eye area.
Apply Eye Primer
Next, apply an eye primer to create a smooth and even surface for your eyeshadow. Using your fingertips or a small brush, dab a small amount of primer onto your eyelids and blend it out until it is completely absorbed. This will help to intensify the color payoff of your eyeshadow and prevent it from creasing or fading throughout the day. Choose a primer that is specifically designed for hooded eyes, as it will help to keep your eyeshadow in place and prevent it from smudging into the crease.
Conceal Dark Circles
Hooded eyes can often be accompanied by dark circles, so it’s important to address this concern before moving on to your eye makeup. Choose a creamy concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone and apply it to the inner corner of your eye and under the lower lash line. Gently blend it out using a small brush or your fingertips, being careful not to tug or pull on the delicate skin.
Set with Powder
To ensure that your concealer stays in place and doesn’t crease, lightly dust a setting powder over the concealed areas. Use a fluffy brush to gently press the powder onto the skin, focusing on the inner corner of the eyes and the under-eye area. This will help to lock in the concealer and create a smooth base for your eyeshadow application.
Eyeshadow Techniques
Eyeshadow is a key component of any eye makeup look, and for hooded eyes over 50, it’s important to use techniques that enhance the natural shape of your eyes. Follow these tips and tricks to create a flattering eyeshadow look.
Use Transition Shades
When applying eyeshadow, start by using a transition shade to create depth and dimension. This shade should be slightly darker than your natural skin tone and can be a warm or cool tone depending on your preference. Use a fluffy blending brush to sweep the transition shade into the crease and blend it outwards in a windshield wiper motion. This will create a seamless transition between your eyeshadow and your natural skin tone, making the overall look more polished.
Apply Shimmer to Inner Corners
To brighten and open up hooded eyes, apply a shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes. This will reflect light and make your eyes appear larger and more awake. Choose a light, champagne or gold shade and use a small brush to gently pat the eyeshadow onto the inner corners. Blend it outwards slightly to create a gradient effect with your transition shade.
Avoid Dark Shades on Crease
When it comes to hooded eyes, it’s best to avoid applying dark eyeshadows directly onto the crease. This can make the eyes appear even more hooded and create a heavy, unbalanced look. Instead, opt for medium-toned shades and focus on blending them into the outer corner of the eye. This will create a lifted effect and help to define the shape of your eyes without emphasizing the hoodedness.
Create a Winged Eyeliner Effect
To give the illusion of a lifted eye shape, try creating a winged eyeliner effect with your eyeshadow. Using a small angled brush, apply a medium-toned eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eyelid and extend it slightly upwards towards the end of your eyebrow. This will create a subtle lift and make your eyes appear more lifted. Blend out any harsh lines and make sure to connect the shadow with your upper lash line for a seamless look.
Eyeliner Tricks
Eyeliner can make a big difference in enhancing the shape and definition of hooded eyes. Follow these tricks to create a flattering eyeliner look.
Tightline the Upper Lash Line
Tightlining is a technique where you apply eyeliner to the upper waterline, right at the base of your lashes. This helps to create the illusion of thicker lashes and adds definition to your eyes without making them look smaller. Use a waterproof eyeliner pencil and gently lift your upper eyelid. Place the liner as close to the lashes as possible and wiggle it back and forth for a smooth and even application.
Apply Eyeliner Thicker towards Outer Corner
To create a winged eyeliner effect, apply your eyeliner thicker towards the outer corner of your eyes. This will help to lift the eyes and create a more elongated look. Start by lining your upper lash line as close to the lashes as possible. As you reach the outer corner, gradually thicken the line and extend it slightly upwards in a winged shape. This will create a subtle flick that lifts and defines your eyes.
Avoid Thick Lines on the Lower Lid
When it comes to eyeliner on the lower lid, it’s best to keep the lines thin and subtle. Applying thick eyeliner on the lower lid can make hooded eyes appear smaller and accentuate the hoodedness. Instead, use a soft eyeliner pencil or a small angled brush to apply a thin line of eyeshadow or eyeliner along the lower lash line. This will add definition without overpowering the eyes.
Extend the Winged Liner
To further enhance the winged eyeliner effect, extend the wing slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye. This will create a more elongated and lifted look, making your eyes appear more open and awake. Use a small angled brush and a dark eyeshadow or eyeliner to carefully extend the wing. Keep the line thin and precise for a polished finish.
Mascara Application
Mascara is the finishing touch to any eye makeup look, and for hooded eyes over 50, it can make a big difference in opening up the eyes and making them appear more defined. Follow these techniques to achieve fluttery, voluminous lashes.
Curl the Lashes
Before applying mascara, curl your lashes to create a wide-eyed effect. Use an eyelash curler and gently clamp down at the base of your lashes, holding for a few seconds. Repeat this step at the middle and outer section of your lashes for maximum lift. This will help to open up your eyes and create the illusion of larger, more awake eyes.
Wiggle Mascara Wand at Base
When applying mascara, start by wiggling the wand at the base of your lashes. This will help to coat each individual lash and add volume from the root. Position the wand horizontally and slowly move it back and forth, ensuring that each lash is coated with mascara. This will create a fuller lash line and make your eyes appear more defined.
Layer Mascara for Added Volume
To achieve voluminous lashes, layer your mascara for added impact. Start with a lengthening mascara to separate and define your lashes, wiggling the wand from roots to tips. Once the first coat has dried, apply a volumizing mascara to add thickness and fullness to your lashes. Focus on the outer corners for a winged effect, and use a clean mascara wand to comb through any clumps or tangles.
Separate Lashes with a Brush
To prevent your lashes from clumping together, use a clean mascara brush to separate and fan them out. After applying mascara, wait for it to dry slightly and then gently comb through your lashes, starting at the base and working your way towards the tips. This will give your lashes a feathery, fluttery look and prevent them from sticking together.
Eyebrow Grooming
Eyebrows play a crucial role in framing the face and enhancing the overall look of your eye makeup. Follow these tips to groom and shape your eyebrows for a polished and natural appearance.
Fill in Sparse Brows
If your eyebrows are sparse or have thinning patches, filling them in can make a big difference in framing your eyes. Choose an eyebrow pencil or powder that matches your natural hair color and use light, feathery strokes to mimic the appearance of hair. Focus on filling in any sparse areas and defining the shape of your brows. Avoid creating harsh, blocky lines, as this can look unnatural and overpowering.
Define the Arch
The arch of your eyebrows can greatly impact the overall shape of your eyes. For hooded eyes, it’s best to maintain a soft, natural arch that follows the natural shape of your brows. Use a spoolie brush to comb your eyebrow hairs upwards, and then use an eyebrow pencil or powder to lightly define the arch. Follow the natural curve of your brow bone and avoid creating a steep or overly angular arch, as this can make your eyes appear more hooded.
Avoid Overly Angular Brows
While defined eyebrows can enhance the overall look of your eye makeup, it’s important to avoid creating overly angular brows for hooded eyes. Sharp, angular brows can make the eyes appear more droopy and accentuate the hoodedness. Instead, aim for a soft, slightly rounded shape that follows the natural curve of your brow bone. Lightly fill in any sparse areas and use a spoolie brush to blend the color for a natural, soft-focus effect.
Set with Brow Gel
To ensure that your eyebrows stay in place throughout the day, set them with a clear or tinted brow gel. This will help to lock in the color and keep your eyebrow hairs in place, preventing them from becoming unruly or straying out of shape. Brush the gel through your eyebrows in an upwards motion, following the natural direction of hair growth. This will give your brows a polished, groomed appearance that complements your eye makeup.
Highlighting Techniques
Highlighter is a great tool for adding dimension and brightness to the eyes. Follow these techniques to accentuate the natural shape of your eyes and create a youthful, radiant look.
Apply Highlighter to Brow Bone
To lift and brighten the eyes, apply a shimmery highlighter to the brow bone. Choose a light, champagne or ivory shade and use a small brush to apply the highlighter underneath your eyebrow, following the arch. Blend it outwards towards the tail of your brow to create a subtle, glowing effect. This will draw attention to your eyes and make your brow bone appear more defined.
Add Shimmer to Inner Corners
Another way to make your eyes appear more awake is by adding a touch of shimmer to the inner corners. This trick reflects light and creates the illusion of larger, brighter eyes. Use a small brush or your fingertips to pat a shimmery highlighter onto the inner corners, focusing on the tear duct area. Blend it outwards slightly towards the lower lash line to create a seamless gradient with your eyeshadow.
Use a Matte Highlight for Crease
When highlighting the crease, it’s best to opt for a matte eyeshadow rather than a shimmer. This will create a subtle lift without drawing attention to any hoodedness. Choose a shade that is slightly lighter than your natural skin tone and apply it to the crease using a fluffy blending brush. Blend it upwards towards the brow bone to create a seamless transition with your eyeshadow and create a lifted effect.
Avoid Shimmer on Droopy Lids
If you have droopy or hooded lids, it’s best to avoid applying shimmery highlighter directly on the lids. Shimmer tends to emphasize texture and draw attention to any sagging or hoodedness. Instead, focus on enhancing the brow bone and inner corners with shimmer, and use a matte shade to define the crease. This will create a balanced and youthful look that flatters your hooded eyes.
Tips for Sensitive Eyes
If you have sensitive eyes, it’s important to choose products that are gentle and non-irritating. Follow these tips to keep your eyes happy and comfortable during your makeup application.
Choose Hypoallergenic Products
When selecting eye makeup products, opt for hypoallergenic formulas that are specifically designed for sensitive eyes. Look for labels that indicate the product is dermatologist-tested and free of common irritants such as fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. These products are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, making them ideal for those with sensitive eyes.
Remove Makeup Gently
To avoid further irritation, remove your eye makeup gently and carefully. Use a gentle, oil-based makeup remover that is specifically formulated for the delicate eye area. Soak a cotton pad with the remover and press it onto your closed eyelid for a few seconds to allow the product to dissolve the makeup. Avoid rubbing or tugging at the eye area, as this can cause redness and irritation.
Avoid Glitter and Sparkle
Glitter and sparkle can be beautiful, but they can also irritate sensitive eyes. Avoid eyeshadows or eyeliners that contain large glitter particles, as these can fall into the eyes and cause discomfort. Opt for matte or satin formulas instead, and if you want to add a touch of sparkle, choose products that contain fine shimmer particles that are less likely to irritate the eyes.
Opt for Natural Ingredients
If you have sensitive eyes, it’s a good idea to choose eye makeup products that contain natural ingredients. Look for products that are formulated with soothing botanicals such as chamomile, aloe vera, and cucumber extract. These ingredients are known for their calming and hydrating properties, which can help to reduce redness and soothe sensitive eyes.
Daytime Makeup Look
For a natural and polished daytime look for hooded eyes over 50, follow these steps to enhance your features and create a fresh, youthful appearance.
Keep it Natural
During the daytime, it’s best to opt for a natural and subtle makeup look that enhances your natural beauty. Focus on creating a flawless base using a lightweight foundation or BB cream, and spot conceal any areas of concern. Keep the rest of your face makeup minimal, using a light dusting of blush and a nude or soft pink lipstick.
Use Soft Neutrals
When choosing eyeshadow for a daytime look, opt for soft neutrals that complement your skin tone. Use a transition shade to create depth in the crease, followed by a light, shimmery shade on the lid. Blend the colors seamlessly to create a soft and natural eyeshadow look that brightens the eyes. Finish off with a coat of lengthening mascara to define the lashes.
Enhance the Lashes
To make your eyes appear more open and awake during the daytime, focus on enhancing your lashes. Curl your lashes and apply a lengthening mascara to add definition and length. Skip the heavy eyeliner and instead, tightline the upper lash line to create the illusion of thicker lashes. This will create a natural and effortless look that flatters your hooded eyes.
Define the Brows
Lastly, complete your daytime look by defining your eyebrows. Use a brow pencil or powder that matches your natural hair color and gently fill in any sparse areas. Focus on creating soft, feathery strokes that mimic the appearance of hair, and use a spoolie brush to blend the color for a natural finish. This will frame your eyes and give your face a polished and put-together look.
Evening Makeup Look
For a glamorous and dramatic evening look for hooded eyes over 50, follow these steps to create a stunning eye makeup look that turns heads.
Experiment with Color
For an evening look, don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes. Choose eyeshadows that complement your eye color and create a contrast with your skin tone. Jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, or amethyst purple can make your eyes pop and add a touch of sophistication to your overall look. Experiment with different shades and finishes to find the colors that suit you best.
Add Drama with Smokey Eyes
For a sultry and dramatic evening look, consider creating a smokey eye effect. Start by applying a dark, matte shade to the outer corner of your eyelid and blend it into the crease. Use a smaller brush to apply the same shade along the lower lash line, connecting it to the outer corner. Then, layer a shimmery eyeshadow onto the lid and blend it into the crease for a seamless transition. Finish off with a winged eyeliner and several coats of volumizing mascara for added depth and drama.
Define the Crease
To enhance the shape of your hooded eyes, it’s important to define the crease. Use a darker shade than your transition shade and apply it directly to the crease using a small blending brush. Focus on blending the color upwards and outwards, creating a lifted effect. This will define the shape of your eyes and make them appear more open and awake.
Opt for Bold Eyeliner
For an evening look, consider opting for bold eyeliner to make a statement. Whether you prefer a classic black, a rich brown, or a vibrant colored liner, choose a formula that is long-lasting and highly pigmented. Create a winged eyeliner effect to elongate your eyes and add a touch of glamour. Remember to use a waterproof formula to ensure that your liner stays in place all night long.
In conclusion, makeup for hooded eyes over 50 can be both beautiful and flattering. By choosing the right products, prepping your eyes properly, and using the right techniques, you can enhance your natural beauty and create stunning eye makeup looks. Whether you’re going for a natural daytime look or a glamorous evening look, these tips and tricks will help you navigate the world of eye makeup with confidence. Remember to have fun and experiment with different colors and techniques to find the looks that make you feel your best.
