As we age, our facial features evolve, and the way we apply makeup should evolve with them. For those over 50 with hooded eyes, applying eye makeup can be particularly challenging. Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that can partially or fully cover the eyelid, making it harder for eyeshadow and eyeliner to stay visible.
However, with a few adjustments and the right techniques, you can create stunning, age-appropriate looks that open up the eyes and enhance your natural beauty. This article offers practical, effective makeup tips specifically tailored for hooded eyes over 50.
Understanding Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyes are characterized by excess skin folding down from the brow bone to the lash line. This can be a natural eye shape or something that develops with age due to a loss of collagen and elasticity.
Common challenges include:
- Eyeshadow disappearing into the crease
- Eyeliner smudging or transferring
- Lashes being less visible
- Eyes looking smaller or tired
The goal of makeup for hooded eyes is to lift, define, and brighten the eyes—without looking harsh or overdone.
Best Makeup Tips for Hooded Eyes Over 50
1. Prep the Eye Area
Mature skin tends to be drier and more textured. Always begin with a well-moisturized eye area.
- Use a lightweight eye cream that hydrates without making the lids greasy.
- Apply an eyeshadow primer to prevent creasing and keep makeup in place all day.
2. Choose the Right Eyeshadow Formula
Avoid chalky or glitter-heavy shadows, which can emphasize texture and fine lines.
Opt for:
- Satin or matte finishes for the crease and lid
- Shimmer only on the mobile lid or inner corners (use sparingly)
- Cream or hybrid powder-cream formulas for a smooth finish
Shades that work well:
- Soft browns
- Mauves
- Warm taupes
- Neutral rose tones
3. Create a New, Lifted Crease
With hooded eyes, the natural crease is often hidden. You can create the illusion of a more lifted eye by applying eyeshadow slightly above your natural crease.
How to do it:
- Use a medium matte shade with a fluffy brush.
- Apply it just above the natural crease, following the shape of your eye.
- Blend upward and outward to lift the outer corners.
This technique opens the eyes and creates a more youthful appearance.
4. Keep the Lid Light and Bright
Darker shades on the mobile lid can make the eyes look sunken. Instead, brighten up this area to bring it forward.
- Apply a light matte or satin shade on the lid.
- Use your finger or a flat brush to gently press the shadow in.
Avoid glitter, which can settle into fine lines and look harsh on mature skin.
5. Use Eyeliner Strategically
Traditional eyeliner techniques can smudge or disappear under hooded lids.
Tips:
- Use waterproof gel or pencil eyeliner for long wear.
- Apply tightline (lining the upper waterline) to make lashes appear fuller.
- Avoid thick lines on the upper lid. Instead, opt for a thin line close to the lashes.
If you want a wing, create a small, upward flick that extends slightly beyond the outer corner—keeping it subtle and lifted.
6. Curl Your Lashes and Use Mascara Wisely
Curled lashes can help open up hooded eyes dramatically.
- Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara.
- Apply lengthening mascara, focusing on the center and outer lashes to lift the eye.
Avoid heavy or clumpy formulas that weigh lashes down. Waterproof options hold curl better if your lashes are straight or sparse.
7. Enhance the Lower Lash Line Carefully
Overdoing the lower lash line can drag the eyes down, especially for mature skin.
- Use a soft pencil or eyeshadow in a neutral tone.
- Apply only to the outer third of the lower lash line.
- Blend well to soften the look and prevent harsh lines.
8. Highlight the Right Areas
Highlighting helps bring light to the face and lift the features.
Apply a soft, non-glittery highlighter to:
- The inner corners of the eyes
- The brow bone, just under the arch (not all the way across)
- Avoid shimmery products on textured areas like crow’s feet or deep creases
9. Keep Brows Defined but Soft
Well-groomed brows frame the face and lift the eye area.
- Use a brow pencil or powder to fill sparse areas.
- Follow the natural shape, slightly arching the brow for lift.
- Avoid overly dark or sharp lines—soft, feathered strokes work best.
10. Adjust Your Lighting and Tools
Always apply your makeup in natural daylight or a well-lit room with a mirror that allows you to see the angle of your lids. This helps you place eyeshadow more accurately for your specific eye shape.
Use small, precise brushes for better control and softer blending.
Additional Pro Tips for Mature Skin
- Avoid tugging the skin while applying makeup. This can distort placement.
- Use setting spray instead of powder to lock in makeup without drying the skin.
- Keep the rest of the makeup balanced—soft blush, a flattering lip color, and well-blended foundation complete the look.
Remember, the goal isn’t to mask aging but to enhance your features in a flattering, confident way.
Related Note on Makeup Education
If you’re still learning the ropes of eye makeup or looking to improve your technique, resources like a Step-by-Step Bridal Makeup Tutorial for Beginners can also help. While intended for weddings, these tutorials often break down techniques that apply to all ages and eye shapes—including hooded eyes—making them a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
Hooded eyes over 50 deserve makeup that flatters, lifts, and enhances without overwhelming. With the right techniques—like lifting the crease, using the right textures, and focusing on definition—you can bring out your natural beauty and feel confident at any age.
