Eyeshadow on Hooded or Crepey Lids: Where to Actually Put It
If your eyeshadow seems to disappear when you open your eyes, this one’s for you.
A hooded lid is when the skin from the brow bone folds over part of the movable eyelid. Some people naturally have this eye shape, and for others it can become more noticeable over time.
It’s also one of the reasons some women told us they’ve simplified their eye makeup altogether:
“I don't really know where to start with makeup at 45 years old. So I just use mascara and eyebrow gel.”
The good news is, you often don’t need different eyeshadow, just a slightly different placement.
First, find your working crease… with your eyes open
A lot of traditional eyeshadow advice tells us to “apply to the crease”, but on hooded eyes that crease can disappear when the eyes are open.
Instead, look straight ahead into the mirror with your eyes open. The point where the lid begins to fold is the area to work with. Bringing your definition slightly above your natural crease can help the colour stay visible when your eyes are open.
That small placement shift can make a big difference.
Work with your eyes open, not just closed
This is one of the easiest changes to make. If you only apply eyeshadow with your eyes closed, some of the colour can disappear into the fold once you open them.
Try looking straight into the mirror with your eyes open and placing your shadow where you can still see it. It may feel a little higher than you’re used to, but that’s often what helps the colour stay visible and gives the eye more definition.
Anchor the outer corner
Rather than taking a deeper shade across the entire lid, try concentrating it at the outer corner and blending slightly upward and outward. This keeps the inner part of the eye feeling bright and open while adding definition where the colour is more likely to stay visible.
Matte and shimmer both have a place
Matte shades can be really helpful for creating soft definition, especially through the crease and outer corner. If you love shimmer, keep it, just use it more intentionally. A small amount on the centre of the lid or inner corner can add light without overwhelming the eye.
Help prevent crease transfer
If your eyeshadow tends to move into the fold throughout the day, a little prep can make a big difference. Make sure any skincare has fully absorbed first, then apply a small amount of eye primer or a light dusting of powder to give your shadow a smoother base to grip to.
Using less product and building slowly can also help it stay looking fresh for longer.
If you wear liner
A very thick line can sometimes take up valuable lid space on hooded eyes. Instead, try keeping liner thin and close to the lash line so it adds definition without making the eye feel smaller.
You can also skip liner altogether and focus on mascara, particularly through the outer lashes, for a softer, more open-looking finish.
And a little permission to keep it simple
One of our customers told us:
“I look like something out of a horror movie when applying it.”
If you’ve ever felt the same, you’re definitely not alone. Eye makeup can take a little practice, particularly when the techniques you originally learned no longer feel like they work for your eye shape.
You don’t need eight shades or a complicated technique to create a beautiful eye look. Two well-placed shades can be more than enough.
Not sure which shades to choose? Our team can help you find colours that suit you, and our free colour matching service isn’t just for foundation.
