Best Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes + Top Styles & Tutorial

Updated on November 28, 2023
Boshika Gupta By Boshika Gupta
Boshika Gupta

Writer, Beauty & Wellness Enthusiast

Table Of Contents

    Hooded eyesPIN

    Best Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes + Top Styles & Tutorial

    Have you ever struggled to get winged eyeliner right, sighing in frustration, and yelling out cuss words as you realize that the two lines look more like long lost cousins than twins once again?

    Trying out a new eyeliner product can feel like an even bigger struggle if you have hooded eyes. Thanks to your hooded eyes, you must carefully consider the placement and ensure your liner doesn’t smudge.

    But hey, where there is a will, there’s a way. Hooded eyes can accommodate a variety of eyeliner styles. We’re not joking.

    In fact, you’re in good company. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Taylor Swift, and Blake Lively have hooded eyes and aren’t afraid to flaunt various eye makeup looks.

    While learning how to put on eyeliner for hooded eyes, the rules are straightforward. All you have to do is not give up (and get creative while applying makeup, of course.)

    What are Hooded Eyes?

    Before we get going, let’s address an important question: what are hooded eyes, and how do you know if you have them?

    The easiest way to answer this question is to take a look at your reflection in the mirror. Go on, look closely and check whether you can see your creases. If you’ve got hooded eyes, you won’t be able to spot them because your eyelid will be (somewhat or mostly) hidden by excess skin.

    Fun fact: you may notice you’ve got hooded eyes as you get older because of how aging affects your skin.

    Or there is the other, more obvious option – you may have had hooded eyes all along. You can blame that on genetics. Maybe one or both of your parents have hooded eyes too. Either way, it’s normal and not a bad thing.

    For another fun fact, people say that those with hooded eyes are:

    • Opened minded
    • Calm
    • Helpful
    • Cheerful

    If none of those qualities speak to you and you are looking in the mirror but can’t quite tell, check out the chart below of the characteristics. (We’re just joking about the qualities thing, we’re sure your all four.)

    Characteristics of Hooded Eyes

    • Heavy brow bone
    • Deep cut crease
    • Eyelids are hard to see when eyes are open
    • Eyes can sometimes look deep-set
    • Eyelids have a smaller appearance

    Hooded Eyes Chart

    Still unsure what it means to have hooded eyes? Things can get slightly confusing when trying to understand what different eye shapes look like.

    Take a deep breath and exhale. We’ve made a handy guide to help you learn the basics. Check it out below.

    Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes – Top Five Picks

    If you’ve been looking for the perfect eyeliner for hooded eyes, your search ends here. Whether you’re looking for an affordable drugstore pick or want to check out a cult favorite, we’ve got you covered.

    Here is a curated list of some of the best products for hooded eyes. You can thank us later.

    Best Overall

    This waterproof eyeliner offers a matte finish. The eyeliner makes application super easy with its brush tip and is recommended for those trying to achieve precise styles.

    Plus, the formula is vegan and cruelty-free. The biggest perk? It’s a transfer-proof formula which is a godsend for those with hooded eyes.

    You can even add several layers for an intense look if you like. With over 70,000 reviews on Amazon, this eyeliner manages to live up to the hype.

    Liquid Eyeliner

    Using this liquid formula is a breeze thanks to its felt-tip applicator that allows you to create precise lines on hooded eyes.

    While looking for a liquid eyeliner for hooded eyes, you’re likely to search for a product that can stay put all day. Rest assured, this liquid eyeliner is known for its staying power.

    Additionally, if your eyes are sensitive to new products, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you try this product.

    It’s unlikely you’ll face adverse reactions thanks to this product being:

    1. Free from fragrances
    2. Tested by ophthalmologists

    Permanent Eyeliner

    Choosing permanent eyeliner for hooded eyes is a personal decision and something you need to think through carefully before making your decision.

    Expect the permanent makeup to last for a year to three years at the most. You may need to get a touch-up if it starts to fade.

    Additionally, you’re looking at spending upwards of $600, depending on where you get the treatment done.

    If you’re sold on the idea of permanent eyeliner but need to weigh the advantages against the disadvantages, here’s a helpful table to help you decide.

    Pros of Permanent Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes Cons of Permanent Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes
    • You won’t have to worry about applying eyeliner daily..
    • It takes the guesswork out of the equation, and you can choose to get an eyeliner style you love.
    • A qualified professional can plan the perfect look for you in a few hours.
    • You won’t get to experiment with different eyeliner styles until it fades.
    • It can get expensive and may only be affordable for some.
    • You may experience side effects or complications like swelling or itchiness, especially if you get the treatment done at an unlicensed facility.

    Permanent eyeliner for hooded eyes may be a good fit if you’re frustrated by the application process and need a stress-free way to get an eyeliner look. To be safe, you should consult a professional before sealing the deal.

    Drugstore Eyeliner

    This Kat Von D Tattoo liner is a cult favorite that has won over many makeup enthusiasts. It comes equipped with an “ultra-precise” brush tip that makes eyeliner application easy on hooded eyes. That’s not all, though. There are more perks worth considering.

    The Kat Von D formula is:

    • Vegan
    • Long-lasting
    • Cruelty-free

    Everything said and done, it’s a solid drugstore pick that deserves a spot on your list.

    Thick Eyeliner

    The 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof eyeliner pencil from Urban Decay is easy to blend and apply to hooded eyes. A huge bonus? It contains nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, Vitamin E, and cottonseed oil.

    Plus, the creamy formula is available in several shades like:

    • Matte Black
    • Bright Teal
    • Shimmery Dark Brown
    • Deep Gray
    • Navy
    • Bourbon

    The eyeliner pencil lasts for as long as 16 hours and doesn’t smudge easily. Also, you won’t have to worry about tugging your delicate eye area while applying this eyeliner.

    Top Hooded Eyes Eyeliner Styles

    If you’ve been under the impression that you can’t experiment with eyeliner styles if you have hooded eyes, think again. You can try many different techniques while highlighting your eye color and accentuating your features.

    Don’t believe us? Read on for more details on how you can experiment with eyeliner application.

    Hooded Eyeliner Style Chart

    Hooded eyes may seem tricky to work with, but it all boils down to two things. First, you need to make sure you’re using the right products. You must be at ease while applying eyeliner instead of stressing over smudging the product all over your eye area.

    Secondly, don’t be afraid to practice until you feel confident about trying a new style. Patience and practice will take you a long way.

    Look at the helpful hooded eye makeup chart below for some inspiration.

    Whether you’re going for winged eyeliner or a dramatic style, you’ll find a good option that flatters your features. You’ve got to keep experimenting!

    Confidence is the key to getting an eye makeup look right. Whether you’re trying to apply makeup to almond eyes or attempting a smokey eyeshadow look on your round eyes, remind yourself that you’ve got this.

    Browse through the options below as you begin playing with different eyeliner styles.

    Winged

    Winged eyeliner is a classic style that never disappoints. No matter your style, this is a universally flattering look guaranteed to impress.

    As pictured above, exaggerating the corners of hooded eyes with eyeliner can help you achieve the perfect winged liner look.

    Cat

    CatInstagram@patrixessPIN

    The goal is to make your eyes look bigger and experiment with different styles to find your perfect fit.

    Go all out with cat eye makeup like in the picture above, and use eye makeup tools to your advantage. Cat eyeliner looks like winged eyeliner except it’s thicker and is achieved by applying liner on the upper and lower waterline.

    Your cat eye makeup look is incomplete without the following:

    1. Thick coats of mascara
    2. Eyeshadow
    3. Dark eyeliner

    Cut Crease

    The cut crease style is all about adding eyeshadow above your natural crease to highlight your eyes and create a contrasting look.

    It’s an uber-cool style that makes your eyes pop. Also, this is your chance to use a vivid, colorful hue from your eyeshadow palette.

    Zohna Tip

    Your best bet is to use eyeshadow brushes for greater control while creating your eye makeup look instead of using your fingers or a beauty blender.

    Simple

    SimpleInstagram@hodaglamPIN

    Even a simple eye makeup look with liquid eyeliner and mascara can make your eyes look stunning. Don’t worry about trying dramatic styles for hooded eyes if simple and understated looks are what you prefer.

    Whether you have wide set eyes or close set eyes, here’s a helpful tip you can try. Apply white eyeliner to your lower waterline to make your eyes look bigger. Everything in moderation is a good strategy, though.

    Fox

    Fox eye makeup is actually what it sounds like. A little bit. Like a fox’s big eyes, this style focuses on making your eyes look bigger and brighter with eyeliner and mascara.

    Like the example pictured above, apply liner to your upper waterline and extend it to the inner corners. Draw a dramatic winged liner on both sides to finish up.

    Batwing

    This fun, feisty option is ideal for a costume party. Draw a batwing design to make your eyes look as striking as possible.

    For reference, look at the example pictured above. The eyeliner is thin until it reaches the outer corner of your eyes, where it gets progressively thicker. Use an eyeliner pencil and add an extra coat with liquid liner for the best results.

    Goth

    If you’re feeling creative, get ready to spice things up with a unique goth look that will make you the center of attention at the next party.

    Here’s what you need to do:

    1. Add black eyeshadow to your eyelid before blending
    2. Apply red eyeshadow above your natural crease with an eyebrow brush
    3. Add green eyeliner to your lower waterline
    4. Finish up with a thin layer of black eyeliner

    Alternatively, go for an all-black look and apply a thick layer of eyeliner to your upper and lower waterline (with black eyeshadow) for a traditional goth look.

    Dramatic

    Apply dark eyeliner to your hooded eyes for a stunning look that makes a style statement of its own.

    Don’t forget to apply dark eyeshadow to your eyelids and a coat or two of mascara to your lashes for more drama. Grab a set of falsies to complete your look if you’re feeling adventurous.

    Colorful Makeup for Hooded Eyes

    Colorful Makeup for Hooded EyesInstagram@debutawnPIN

    This style is capable of making heads turn, and jaws drop. Use matching eye shadow and liner on your lower waterline. Combine that with a generous amount of mascara. We’re confident you’ll feel like a queen in no time.

    Don’t forget to apply black eyeliner, preferably cat eye makeup or a dramatic style for extra oomph. Combine that with nude lips, and you’re all set for a romantic date night.

    Graphic Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes

    Set the stage on fire with this captivating style for hooded eyes. We’re talking about graphic eyeliner with colorful streaks and long, voluminous lashes.

    Add a thick coat of winged eyeliner, and you’re set. This unconventional look will earn you tons of compliments, we promise.

    Ombre

    Subtle ombre hues on your eyelids can go a long way. You’ll need time to perfect this style because it involves using different eyeshadow colors to achieve your desired look.

    Don’t overlook the primary rule – blend, blend, and then blend some more. Apply false eyelashes for stunning results. And, of course, don’t forget to slowly add a thin layer of matte black eyeliner.

    You might find a few tools useful to apply fake eyelashes, such as eyelash glue and tweezers. Once your tools are ready, you’ll want to trim your false eyelashes before applying lash glue and putting them on.

    How to do Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes

    If you’ve struggled with eyeliner application and have always wondered how to apply eyeliner for hooded eyes, you’re not alone.

    Others feel your struggle every day and know what it’s like to work hard to achieve the perfect winged liner on hooded eyes.

    Check out the step-by-step guide below on applying eyeliner for hooded eyes the next time you feel stuck and need some help.

    Step #1 Prep Your Eyelids

    Make sure to cleanse your face, apply a moisturizer, and dab some primer to your eyelids for stress-free eyeliner application.

    Step #2 Apply Eyeliner With An Eye Pencil or A Felt-tip Liner

    Using a matte eyeliner, draw a line along your upper waterline (begin from the inner corners and make your way outwards.) Keep your eyes open during the process for easier application.

    Step #4 Add A Wing If Desired

    Go upwards with your eyeliner pencil to create a wing. Be slow and gentle during the application process.

    Step #5 Apply A Layer Of Liquid Eyeliner

    Add an extra coat of liquid liner for a more intense effect. It’s essential to practice with eyeliner that dries quickly and doesn’t smudge when you use it.

    Hooded Eyes Makeup Tips

    While trying to learn how to apply eyeliner for hooded eyes and experimenting with eyeshadow and mascara, remember to pick the right tools for the job.

    For instance, flutter falsies that have lengthier lashes in the middle work better than other types of falsies for hooded eyes.

    Here are a few tips to help you stay on track while learning how to apply makeup for hooded eyes:

    Tip #1

    Get into the habit of using eyeshadow to create a crease instead of applying it only to your eyelid. The latter can make your eye makeup look less prominent.

    Tip #2

    While medium-toned eyeshadow works best for the crease, you want to stick to light-toned colors while working on the area on your brow bone and in the inner corner of your eyes for the best results.

    Tip #3

    Don’t be afraid to experiment. That’s the best way to pick the colors, styles, techniques, and products that work best for you.

    Botox For Hooded Eyes

    If you’re wondering whether botox can help alter hooded eyes, the answer is yes; it’s possible but may not be the right option for everyone.

    Some doctors may also advise eyelid surgery to those who want to change the appearance of their hooded eyes permanently.

    That said, a licensed professional can use Botox to lift your eyebrows, which can make your hooded eyes look less prominent. However, it’s best to talk to a dermatologist who can offer customized options based on your needs.

    FAQ

    • Is Applying Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes Hard?

      Applying eyeliner to hooded eyes can feel slightly tricky at first. Still, getting your desired look is relatively easy once you get the hang of it.

      Don’t forget the cardinal rule – pick an eyeliner you feel comfortable using instead of giving in to popular products that don’t work for you.

    • What Is The Longest Lasting Eyeliner For Hooded Eyes?

      If we’re being honest, most smudge-proof and waterproof eyeliners will work well for hooded eyes.

      Make sure to purchase eyeliner that dries down quickly. Try your luck with a cult favorite like the Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner.

    Which Edgy Style Are You Planning to Try Next?

    Now you know the secret to applying thick coats of eyeliner to show off your hooded eyes.

    Whether you have hooded eyes or deep set eyes that are also hooded (which is possible), you will always have access to various styles that can help you experiment with different types of eye makeup. Go ahead and have some fun.