Eye Makeup

Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes: Tips And Tricks

Want to up your eye makeup game? Check out our guide on how to rock eyeliner when you have hooded eyes. Your eyes will turn mesmerizing in no time! 


Written by Rinnie George

On Aug 30, 2023 – 10 minutes read

hooded eyeliner

You’re all set to rock a stunning eye look, but those pesky hooded eyelids just don’t seem to play along. Most women don’t even know their eye shape. They often complain that a particular eyeliner style doesn’t look as good on them as it does on their friend. Mastering the art of eyeliner for hooded eyes opens up a world of creative possibilities to enhance your unique beauty. Find out your eye shape and master the right eyeliner techniques to change your eye makeup game once and forever. FYI celebs like Blake Lively and Jennifer Lawrence totally own the hooded eye shape. But when it comes to eyeliner, a bit of extra knowledge can really make your eyes stand out.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes refer to an eye shape where the upper eyelid is mostly covered by a fold of skin when the eyes are open. This gives the eyes a more closed appearance. People with hooded eyes might have less visible eyelid space, making certain makeup techniques slightly different.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

It’s a natural variation, like having a unique feature that sets you apart. You can still play with makeup styles or embrace your natural look—either way, hooded eyes are pretty cool!

What Type Of Eyeliner Is Best For Hooded Eyes?

If you have hooded eyes, you are aware that discovering the ideal eyeliner can be a challenging process. But fear not! We’re here to spill the beans on all eyeliner secrets for your fabulous eye shape. From the best types of eyeliners to whether you should even wear eyeliner, we’ve got you covered.

Should Hooded Eyes Wear Eyeliner?

The million-dollar question: Should you even bother with eyeliner if you have hooded eyes? Absolutely! No matter what your eye shape is, you can wear eyeliner. The important thing is to select the appropriate type of eyeliner to enhance the beauty of your eyes. (1)

Should Hooded Eyes Wear Eyeliner?

The Best Types Of Eyeliners For Hooded Eyes

Gel Or Cream Eyeliner:

These are your go-to pals for hooded eyes. They’re soft and creamy, which makes them easy to apply along the lash line. They give you control and precision, allowing you to create a sharp line that won’t smudge onto your hooded lid.

Liquid Eyeliner:

If you’re a fan of sleek and sharp lines, liquid eyeliner is your buddy. It dries quickly and stays put, minimizing the chance of it transferring onto your upper lid. Opt for a fine-tipped applicator for more control.

Pencil Eyeliner:

Pencil eyeliners are your low-maintenance friends. They’re great for smudging along the lash line to create a soft, smoky effect. Just be careful not to draw a thick line that might hide your beautiful lids.

Tips And Tricks For Applying Eyeliner On Hooded Eyes

✅When applying eyeliner to hooded eyes, aim for a thin line close to the lash line. This enhances your eyes without hiding them.

✅Winged eyeliner is your best friend! It lifts the outer corners of your eyes, creating the illusion of more lid space. Start the wing slightly above your natural lash line for the best effect.

🚫Avoid thick lines that can make your lids look even more concealed. Opt for a more subtle approach to maintain that open, fresh look.

✅Applying eyeliner to your waterline might make your eyes appear smaller. If you’re going for a bigger eye illusion, skip the waterline or use nude eyeliner instead.

✅Soften the eyeliner by smudging it slightly. This adds a smoky effect that works wonders for hooded eyes.

✅To prevent smudging, set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow. This extra step can help your eyeliner stay put throughout the day.

How To Apply Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

Applying eyeliner to hooded eyes could be a little tricky at first. But with the right technique, you can master the art and look fab. 

How To Do Winged Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

Winged eyeliner might sound intimidating, but fear not. With a little practice, you’ll nail it! Here’s how to create those captivating wings:

How To Do Winged Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

👉Step 1: Start with clean and makeup-free eyes. Always apply eyeshadow primer on your eyeliner to make your makeup last all day. 

👉Step 2: Go ahead and pick the eyeliner you prefer – whether it’s a gel, pencil, felt-tip pen, or liquid. 

👉Step 3: Draw a thin line on your upper lash line. Extend the line slightly on the outer corner. 

👉Step 4: For hooded eyes, the key is to keep the wing subtle and slightly angled. Starting from the outer corner, draw a short diagonal line pointing toward the end of your eyebrow.

👉Step 5: Connect the tip of the wing to the baseline, forming a triangle. Fill in the triangle to create a solid winged look.

Winged Eyeliner On Mature Hooded Eyes

For mature hooded eyes, especially the ones with winkles doing a winged eyeliner could be quite challenging due to the natural changes that occur in the eyelid area over time. However, with the right techniques and products, it’s still possible to achieve a stunning winged eyeliner look that complements mature hooded eyes and addresses any concerns about wrinkles around your eyes.

Winged Eyeliner On Mature Hooded Eyes
  • Choose The Right Formula:

Gel or cream eyeliners are great for mature skin. They glide smoothly and offer better control.

  • Less Is More:

Avoid thick lines. Opt for thinner lines and shorter wings to maintain a youthful appearance.

  • Smudge For Softness:

Gently smudge the eyeliner to soften the lines. This creates a flattering, smoky effect that’s perfect for mature hooded eyes.

  • Dont Stretch Your Eyelids:

Stretching the eyelids can lead to uneven application of eyeliner. When the eyelid is stretched, the skin’s tension changes, and once released, the eyeliner may not sit exactly where intended, leading to an asymmetrical or jagged appearance.

How To Do Cute Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

Cute eyeliner is all about adding a touch of playfulness to your look. For hooded eyes, cute eyeliner styles can really make your eyes pop:

1. Double Wing: 

This eye-catching technique involves creating not one, but two wings. Start by drawing a classic winged eyeliner along your upper lash line. Once that’s in place, add a second, shorter wing just above the initial wing.

Double Wing

This clever trick serves a dual purpose: it draws attention upwards, enhancing the overall shape of your eyes, and widening the appearance of your eyes. The result? A beautifully dramatic look that’s sure to stand out.

2. Colored Liner: 

Rather than sticking to the classic black or brown, opt for a colorful eyeliner that complements your eye color or outfit. Apply a thin line of the colored eyeliner along your upper lash line.

Colored Liner

The result is a fresh and lively look that adds a playful twist to your makeup. Experiment with various shades to discover which ones enhance your eyes the most.

3. Dot Eyeliner: 

The dot eyeliner technique is a subtle yet captivating way to make your eyes pop. Start by applying your regular eyeliner along the upper lash line. Then, add a single dot of eyeliner to both the lower lash lines.

Dot Eyeliner

This accentuates your eyes and takes the focus away from hooded eyelids. To complete the look, sweep on a coat of mascara. 

How Do You Apply Eyeliner To The Upper Lid?

No matter what type of eyeliner style you do, these steps are the basic steps that you have to follow in every style. 

👉Step 1: Always start with clean eyes. Dirty and oily eyes can smudge the eyeliner. Apply primer so that your eyeliner lasts all day. 

👉Step 2: Begin by drawing a thin line along your upper lash line. This defines your eyes without overwhelming them.

👉Step 3: To achieve a softer look, smudge the eyeliner. Set the eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow to prevent smudging. 

👉Step 4: Now that you have lines in your upper lash line you can select the type of eyeliner look you want to achieve and go with it. 

Best Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes 

We’ve compiled a list of the best 5 eyeliners for different types of hooded eyes. 

1. Liquid Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes

Liquid eyeliners with fine tips are a go-to for hooded eyes. Their precision and long-lasting formulas help create a polished look without smudging.

  • Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

The Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is a cult favorite among makeup enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its ultra-fine tip allows for precise application, making it an excellent choice for those with hooded eyes.

Price: $24 for 0.016 oz

The waterproof formula ensures that your liner stays put throughout the day without smudging or fading. However, some users might find the price point slightly higher and the ultra-fine tip might take a bit of practice for beginners.

  • L’Oréal Paris Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner

L’Oréal Paris Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner has an ultra-fine felt tip to create sharp lines and wings with ease.

L'Oréal Paris Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner

Price:$8 for 0.03 oz

The formula is long-lasting and dries down quickly without smudging, giving you a clean and polished look all day. But it has limited color options compared to other brands.

2. Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes Over 50

Mature hooded eyes require eyeliners that are gentle on the delicate skin around the eyes. Gel liners or soft pencil liners are often favored for their ease of application and versatility.

  • Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

Pencil eyeliners have a bad reputation for not being smooth enough for application. However, the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil is just the opposite. It glides smoothly on the eyes.

Price : $25 for 0.03 oz

It is available in different shades and varieties like matte finish and shimmer finish. But being a pencil liner needs to be sharpened, which can lead to product wastage. It might also smudge on particularly oily eyelids.

3. Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes Asian

For those with Asian hooded eyes, eyeliners with felt tip will give the best result.

  • NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Line

The NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner is a budget-friendly option. Its brush-tip applicator allows for precise lines, even for hooded eyes.

NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Line

Price: $10 for 0.03 oz

The formula is rich in pigment and dries down quickly to a matte finish. However, it is not as waterproof as some other options.

4. Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes Beginner

Beginners might find pencil liners or those with brush tips easier to handle. These options provide more room for error while still achieving a defined look.

  • Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner comes in a pot and is applied with a brush, allowing for excellent control and precision. It has a gel formula which is smooth and creamy.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

Price: $34 for 0.1 oz

It is perfect for beginners because of its ease of application. It is smudge-proof and lasts all day. However, it could be a hassle to some users because they have to carry a separate brush for application. It is not travel-friendly for the same reason. 

Finding the best eyeliner for hooded eyes doesn’t have to be a challenge. These top 5 picks offer a range of options, from liquid to pencil, suitable for different skill levels and preferences. Experiment with different textures and shades to discover the perfect eyeliner that complements your unique hooded eyes, helping you achieve a stunning and confident look every time you step out.

The Bottom Line

Hooded eyes or not, you can still rock any makeup style you want. It’s just that the technique of applying that eye makeup could be different. Practice every day and figure what works best for you and what makes your eyes shine. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a variety of products. With any makeup to stand out, confidence is the key accessory. So go ahead, practice, play, and conquer. 

FAQ

What’s The Best Eyeliner For Beginners With Hooded Eyes?

Choosing the right eyeliner can be daunting for beginners with hooded eyes. Pencil liners or felt-tip pens can be a great starting point because they provide more control and ease of application.

What’s The Best Eyeliner Type For Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes can rock almost all types of eyeliners. However, gel or waterproof liquid eyeliners that offer longevity and don’t smudge are ideal for hooded eyes.

How Do I Apply Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

Mastering eyeliner application for hooded eyes involves adapting techniques to your eye shape. Begin with a thin line along your upper lash line and extend it slightly for a subtle wing. This helps open up the eyes and accentuate their natural beauty.

Any Tips On Doing Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

To nail eyeliner for hooded eyes, start by priming your lids. Experiment with different eyeliner types, focusing on creating thinner lines to prevent hiding your lid. Gradually extend the line and wing for a look that complements your unique eye shape.

  1. ResearchGate. (2008-2023). ILoveEye: Eyeliner Makeup Guidance System with Eye Shape Features. [Online] Available at:

    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359505957_ILoveEye_Eyeliner_Makeup_Guidance_System_with_Eye_Shape_Features

Subscribe to Newsletter

Elevate your routine, stay on trend, and embrace a personalized beauty journey with our curated insights.


Rinnie crafts professional articles on a wide range of topics, including beauty, lifestyle, fashion, and motherhood. Her aim is to express her thoughts through words and share them with the world via social media captions, blogs and YouTube scripts.

Reviewer name


Reviewer bio

Write a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *