What Are Hooded Eyes? – Causes, Characteristics, and Solutions

If you’re someone who’s ever felt frustrated with your eye makeup, you might have heard the term ‘hooded eyes’ thrown around. But what are hooded eyes? 

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about hooded eyes – from what they are, how to identify them and tips for applying makeup.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes refer to a particular eye shape where there is excess skin on the brow bone that obscures the eyelid when the eyes are open. This can make the eye appear smaller and less defined. Hooded eyes are more common in certain ethnicities, such as East Asian and African American.

While hooded eyes are largely a cosmetic concern, some people may experience functional issues due to the excess skin, such as difficulty applying eye makeup or seeing properly.

How to Identify Hooded Eyes

Identifying hooded eyes is relatively easy. To check if you have hooded eyes, look straight ahead into a mirror with your eyes open. If you cannot see your eyelid when your eyes are open, you likely have hooded eyes.

Another way to check is by examining the crease of your eye. If the crease is not visible or appears hidden under a fold of skin, you have hooded eyes.

what causes hooded eyes

Genetics: Hooded eyes are often inherited. If a parent has hooded eyes, their child is more likely to have them as well.

Aging: As we age, the skin around our eyes loses elasticity and can start to sag. This can cause the eyelids to droop, creating a hooded appearance.

Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease and diabetes, can also cause hooded eyes.

Eye injuries: Eye injuries can damage the muscles and connective tissues that support the eyelids, leading to hooded eyes.

As you know, hooded eyes are not always a cause for concern. In many cases, they are simply a natural part of aging. However, if you are concerned about the appearance of your hooded eyes, or if they are making it difficult to see, you should talk to your doctor.

Makeup Tips for Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes require a slightly different approach when it comes to applying makeup. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Focus on the Outer Corner

When applying eyeshadow, focus on the outer corner of your eyes to create the illusion of depth. By extending the eyeshadow beyond the crease, you can make your eyes appear bigger.

Use Small Brushes

Use small brushes to apply eyeshadow and avoid large, fluffy brushes. This will help you be more precise with your application and avoid making a mess.

Avoid Heavy Eyeliner

Heavy eyeliner can make hooded eyes appear even smaller. Instead, opt for thin lines or smudged liner to create a more natural look. You can also try tightlining instead of lining the entire eye.

Highlight the Inner Corner

Highlighting the inner corner of your eyes can also help create the illusion of bigger eyes. Use a light shade of eyeshadow or highlighter to brighten up the area.

how to get rid of hooded eyes

Surgery

The most effective way to fix hooded eyes is with surgery, which is called blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery. During blepharoplasty, your surgeon will remove excess skin, muscle, and fat from your eyelids. This can open up your eyes and make them look more youthful.

Non-surgical treatments

There are a number of non-surgical treatments that can help to improve the appearance of hooded eyes. These include:

  • Botox: Botox injections can be used to relax the muscles that pull down the eyebrows, which can open up the eyes.
  • Dermal fillers: Dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the brow bones, which can also help to open up the eyes and reduce the appearance of hooding.
  • Laser skin resurfacing: Laser skin resurfacing can be used to tighten the skin around the eyes, which can reduce hooding.

In fact, non-surgical treatments are not as permanent as surgery. For example, Botox injections need to be repeated every few months to maintain results.

The best way to decide which option is right for you is to talk to a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They will be able to assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment

Hooded Eyes vs. Other Eye Shapes

Hooded Eyes vs Monolids

Monolid eyes do not have a crease, whereas hooded eyes have a hidden or partially visible crease. Hooded eyes also have more excess skin on the brow bone.

Hooded Eyes vs Droopy Eyes

Droopy eyes appear sad or tired due to excess skin on the lower lid. While hooded eyes also have excess skin, it is located on the upper lid.

Hooded Eyes vs Almond Eyes

Almond eyes have a visible crease and are considered the most balanced eye shape. Hooded eyes have a hidden crease and may appear smaller.

Celebrities with Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes are a common eye shape, even among celebrities. Here are some famous faces who have hooded eyes:

  • Jennifer Lawrence
  • Blake Lively
  • Taylor Swift
  • Emma Stone
  • Lucy Liu

FAQ

  1. Can Hooded Eyes Affect Vision? In some cases, hooded eyes can affect vision by obstructing the field of view. However, this is a rare occurrence and mostly happens in extreme cases.
  2. How Do I Apply Mascara on Hooded Eyes? When applying mascara, wiggle the brush towards the outer corner of your eyes to create more definition. Avoid applying too much product to avoid clumping.
  3. Are Hooded Eyes Considered Unattractive? Absolutely not! Hooded eyes are just another eye shape and can be equally beautiful. Remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.

Final takeaway

Understanding what hooded eyes are and their underlying causes is essential for anyone seeking to address this common eye shape concern. Whether due to genetics, aging, or other factors, hooded eyes can be managed and enhanced through various techniques, from makeup tricks to surgical options like blepharoplasty. The key is to tailor your approach to your individual preferences and needs, with the guidance of professionals when necessary. Ultimately, embracing your unique eye shape and exploring ways to accentuate its beauty can be a rewarding journey, empowering you to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

How Much Turmeric Per Day should you take?

Are you wondering how much turmeric you should be consuming on a daily basis? Turmeric is a spice that has been used in cooking and traditional medicine for centuries. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

In recent years, turmeric supplements have gained popularity due to their potential health benefits. But how much turmeric per day should you take? That’s exactly what I’m going to address in this article. Read on.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in Indian and Southeast Asian dishes. The root of the turmeric plant is dried and ground into a fine powder, which is used as a spice in cooking.

Turmeric also has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive issues, and skin problems. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Pros and Cons of Turmeric

Pros:

  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it potentially useful for treating conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory conditions.
  • Antioxidant properties: Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant, which means it can help protect against damage caused by free radicals in the body.
  • Potential cancer-fighting properties: Some studies have suggested that curcumin may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.
  • May improve brain function: There is some evidence to suggest that curcumin may improve brain function and lower the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

Cons:

  • Taking high doses of turmeric or curcumin supplements may cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and bloating.
  • Turmeric may interfere with blood clotting, so it should not be taken in large amounts by people who are on blood thinners or have bleeding disorders.
  • Turmeric may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medication, and antidepressants. If you are taking any medications, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking turmeric supplements.

How Much Turmeric Should You Take Per Day?

The recommended daily intake of turmeric varies depending on the form in which it is consumed. Here are the recommended dosages for different forms of turmeric:

  • Fresh turmeric root: There is no specific recommended dosage for fresh turmeric root, but it can be used liberally in cooking.
  • Dried turmeric powder: The recommended daily intake of dried turmeric powder is approximately 1 to 3 grams per day.
  • Turmeric supplements: The recommended daily dose of turmeric supplements varies depending on the concentration of curcumin. Generally, doses range from 500 to 2,000 milligrams per day.

In fact, the optimal dosage of turmeric may vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. It is always best to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it if needed.

Who should not use turmeric?

Gallbladder Issues: People with gallstones or gallbladder disease should avoid turmeric as it may stimulate the gallbladder, potentially causing discomfort.

Bleeding Disorders: If you have a bleeding disorder, are taking blood-thinning medications, or have upcoming surgery, consult a healthcare professional before consuming turmeric supplements or large amounts of turmeric in your diet.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: While turmeric used in cooking is generally considered safe during pregnancy, consuming large amounts of turmeric supplements is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. 

Allergies or Sensitivities: If you suspect an allergy or sensitivity, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Turmeric can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially exacerbating symptoms of GERD or acid reflux in some individuals.

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Turmeric can interfere with iron absorption, which could be problematic for individuals with iron deficiency anemia.

Diabetes: Turmeric may lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or are taking medication to control blood sugar, monitor your levels closely if you consume turmeric supplements or consume turmeric in large amounts.

Alternatives to Taking Turmeric

If you are unable to take turmeric due to gastrointestinal issues, interactions with medications, or other reasons, there are several alternatives you can try. Some of these include:

  • Ginger: Like turmeric, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Boswellia: Also known as Indian frankincense, boswellia has been used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Tips for Taking Turmeric

  • Choose high-quality supplements: If you decide to take turmeric supplements, be sure to choose a high-quality product that contains a standardized amount of curcumin.
  • Take turmeric with black pepper: Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, which can enhance the absorption of curcumin in the body.
  • Use turmeric in cooking: Adding turmeric to your meals is an easy way to incorporate it into your diet. It pairs well with rice, vegetables, and meat dishes.

FAQs

  1. Is it safe to take turmeric every day? Yes, it is generally safe to take turmeric every day, as long as you follow the recommended dosages and do not experience any adverse effects.
  2. Can turmeric help with joint pain? Yes, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate joint pain and inflammation. Some studies have shown that taking turmeric supplements can be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treating arthritis pain.
  3. Is it better to take turmeric supplements or use fresh turmeric root? Both forms of turmeric can provide health benefits, but supplements may be more convenient for some people. Fresh turmeric root can be used liberally in cooking, while supplements provide a concentrated dose of curcumin.
  4. Can turmeric supplements help prevent cancer? While some studies suggest that curcumin may have anti-cancer properties, more research is needed in this area. It is not yet clear whether turmeric supplements can help prevent cancer or treat existing cancer.

Final Takeaway

Turmeric is a spice that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. The recommended daily intake of turmeric varies depending on the form in which it is consumed, and it is important to follow the recommended dosages to avoid any side effects.

While turmeric can provide health benefits, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing any health issues, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Incorporating turmeric into your diet can be a flavorful way to support your health, and with the tips and information provided in this article, you can do so safely and effectively.