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.

Celebrities with Sunken Eyes: A Closer Look at the Enigmatic Beauty Trend

Sunken eyes have found their way into the realm of beauty trends, captivating the attention of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike. This unique aesthetic has become a statement of enigmatic allure, as prominent figures from the entertainment industry embrace this captivating look.  From the red carpets to the big screens, these  celebrities with sunken eyes look like absolute champs. So, get ready to uncover the allure and charm of this standout feature as we take a peek into the world of our beloved A-listers!

Who Embraces Sunken Eyes?

Celebrities from various backgrounds have embraced the mystique of sunken eyes, contributing to its popularity in mainstream fashion and beauty. These individuals use their influence to redefine conventional standards of beauty, embracing uniqueness and individuality. Let’s take a closer look at some notable personalities who have embraced this trend:

  • Angelina Jolie – The iconic actress and humanitarian is known for her captivating eyes, which she enhances with subtle sunken eye makeup. Her smoky eye looks create a mesmerizing depth and intensity that make her features even more alluring.
  • Jared Leto – This multifaceted artist is renowned for his chameleon-like transformations. Leto’s experimentation with sunken eyes adds an ethereal touch to his already enigmatic appearance, leaving fans captivated by his ever-changing persona.
  • Tilda Swinton – Known for her avant-garde style and striking presence, Swinton’s sunken eyes exude an otherworldly charm. Her fearless approach to fashion and beauty has made her an icon in the industry, inspiring others to embrace unique aesthetics.

What Defines Sunken Eyes?

Sunken eyes refer to a specific makeup technique and style that creates the illusion of deeper-set eyes. This technique involves using strategic shading and highlighting to sculpt the eye socket, accentuating its natural contours. By cleverly manipulating light and shadow, sunken eyes give the appearance of a mysterious allure, captivating attention and adding depth to the gaze.

Achieving sunken eyes requires meticulous precision in makeup application, including the use of eyeshadows, liners, and mascaras that complement the desired effect. The result is an intensified look that adds drama and magnetism to one’s overall appearance.

When to Embrace the Sunken Eye Look?

The beauty of sunken eyes lies in its versatility and adaptability to various occasions. Whether for a glamorous red carpet event or a night out on the town, this statement look can enhance any outfit and match any mood. Here are some occasions where embracing sunken eyes can take your style to the next level:

  • Formal Events – Sunken eyes add an air of sophistication and elegance, making them perfect for formal events such as galas, award ceremonies, or weddings. Pair them with a classic red lip and understated attire to create a striking and memorable ensemble.
  • Nightlife and Parties – When hitting the dance floor or enjoying a night of revelry, sunken eyes can help you stand out from the crowd. Enhanced with a touch of shimmer or glitter, this look exudes confidence, drawing attention to your eyes as you let loose and have fun.
  • Fashion Photoshoots – Sunken eyes are a favored choice among fashion photographers and stylists, as they add depth and drama to editorial images. Whether for high fashion spreads or avant-garde concepts, this aesthetic elevates the visual impact of the photographs, making them truly unforgettable.

How to Create a Sunken Eye with Makeup?

  • Prep and Prime – Begin by prepping your eyelids with an eyeshadow primer to ensure long-lasting results. This will create a smooth canvas for the subsequent application.
  • Eyeshadow Selection – Choose three shades of eyeshadow: a light neutral shade, a medium-toned contour shade, and a deeper shade for added depth. The contour shade should be slightly cooler than your skin tone.
  • Shading and Blending – Apply the contour shade to the crease of your eyelid, extending it slightly beyond the outer corner. Blend it well using a fluffy brush to soften any harsh lines.
  • Deepen the Socket – Using the deeper shade, apply it to the outer corner of the crease, creating a subtle gradient. Blend this shade carefully to maintain a seamless transition between colors.
  • Highlight the Inner Corner – Apply the light neutral shade to the inner corner of your eyes. This will brighten the area and create contrast, enhancing the appearance of sunken eyes. Blend the highlight shade softly to ensure a natural-looking finish.
  • Eyeliner and Mascara – Line your upper lash line with a black or dark brown eyeliner, making it slightly thicker towards the outer corner to elongate the eyes. Finish the look with a few coats of volumizing mascara on both the upper and lower lashes to add definition and intensity.
  • Finishing Touches – To complete the sunken eye look, consider adding false lashes for added drama and depth. Opt for lashes that are longer and fuller towards the outer corners to create a lifted effect.

Tips for Perfecting Sunken Eyes

Makeup strategies for sunken eyes often focus on adding volume and brightness, whereas celebrities with long philtrum might prioritize techniques that balance their lower face proportions for a harmonious look, highlighting their unique features.

  • Blending is Key: Proper blending is crucial when recreating the sunken eye look. Use fluffy brushes to blend the eyeshadow seamlessly for a natural transition from light to dark shades.
  • Experiment with Colors: While neutral tones are commonly used for sunken eyes, don’t be afraid to play with different color combinations to add a unique twist. Deep jewel tones like emerald green or navy blue can create an intriguing variation on the traditional sunken eye look.
  • Eyeshadow Placement: Focus on applying the deeper shades in the crease and outer corner, gradually building up intensity. This will create the illusion of depth and dimension.
  • Highlighting: Utilize a light shade to highlight the inner corner and brow bone. This will draw attention to the center of the eyes and enhance the overall effect.
  • Practice and Patience: Achieving the perfect sunken eye look requires practice. Take your time, experiment with different techniques, and don’t be discouraged if it takes a few attempts to master the art.

Best Products for Sunken Eyes Makeup

To achieve the desired effect, using high-quality makeup products is essential. Here are some top recommendations for creating captivating sunken eyes:

  • Eyeshadow Palette: Opt for a versatile eyeshadow palette that includes a range of matte shades suitable for creating depth and contour. Some popular palettes for achieving sunken eyes include the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette and the Huda Beauty Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette.
  • Eyeliner: Choose a long-lasting and highly pigmented eyeliner to define the upper lash line and give your eyes added intensity. The Kat Von D Tattoo Liner and the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner are excellent choices.
  • Mascara: Look for a volumizing mascara that provides both length and curl to enhance your lashes. The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara and Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Mascara are renowned for their dramatic effects.
  • False Lashes: Consider adding false lashes to amplify the impact of your sunken eye look. Brands like Ardell and Velour Lashes offer a wide range of styles to suit different preferences.

Remember, finding the right products for your needs may require some experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try out different brands and formulas until you discover the ones that work best for you.

Conclusion

Sunken eyes have become a captivating trend in the world of makeup, offering an alluring and mysterious aesthetic. By understanding the techniques, tips, and products required to achieve this look, you can confidently embrace your unique style and create captivating sunken eyes that command attention. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply want to express your creativity, sunken eyes allow you to make a bold statement with your eye makeup. Embrace the depth, intensity, and allure of sunken eyes to showcase your individuality and stand out from the crowd.

FAQs 

  1. Can anyone achieve the sunken eye look? The sunken eye look can be achieved by anyone who wishes to experiment with their eye makeup. However, it’s important to adapt the technique to suit your specific eye shape and facial features.
  2. Are there any specific face shapes that complement sunken eyes? Sunken eyes can complement various face shapes, but individuals with more prominent brow bones may find this technique particularly flattering, as it enhances the natural contours of the eye area.
  3. How can I make my sunken eyes appear more prominent? To make your sunken eyes appear more prominent, you can use a white or nude-colored eyeliner on your waterline to create the illusion of larger eyes. Additionally, applying a lighter eyeshadow shade on the center of the lid can help draw attention to the eyes and make them appear more open and awake.
  4. Are there any potential drawbacks or concerns with the sunken eye trend? While the sunken eye trend can be visually striking and captivating, it’s essential to consider individual preferences and suitability. Some individuals may feel that this technique makes their eyes appear smaller or accentuates dark circles.