EXPLORING THE DIFFERENCES: HOODED VS NON-HOODED EYES

Hooded eyes, characterized by a skin fold partially or fully covering the eyelid crease, can be genetic or age-related. While posing challenges for traditional makeup application, this blog explored various makeup techniques tailored for hooded eyes. Additionally, it discussed both non-invasive and surgical treatments to address this eye shape. Importantly, the distinction between hooded and droopy eyes was clarified, emphasizing the significance of understanding one’s unique eye structure for effective makeup enhancement and potential treatment options.

WHAT ARE HOODED EYES?

Hooded eyes, characterized by a skin fold partially covering the eyelid crease, are often perceived as a challenge for makeup application. While some view them as unattractive, others find them alluring, even calling them “bedroom eyes.” 

Despite potential difficulties, makeup techniques can enhance hooded eyes by focusing on defining the crease, emphasizing the lash line, and creating the illusion of a larger eyelid. With inspiration from celebrities like Blake Lively and Jennifer Lawrence, individuals can confidently embrace their unique eye shape and achieve desired makeup looks.

WHAT ARE NON-HOODED EYES? 

Monolids are characterized by a single, flat eyelid without a crease, extending from the lash line to the brow bone. This eye shape sits flush against the brow, eliminating the need for a crease. In contrast, double eyelids have a visible crease or fold, creating a partial hood over the eye. 

While this crease doesn’t fully cover the lid, it’s distinct from the smooth surface of monolids. Importantly, double eyelids have a tendency to evolve into hooded eyes over time due to the gradual increase in eyelid skin.

HOODED EYES VS. NON-HOODED EYES: SPOTTING THE DIFFERENCE

Hooded eyes are distinguished by a fold of skin partially or fully concealing the eyelid crease, creating a “hooded” effect. This often results in a smaller, less visible eyelid. Makeup techniques for hooded eyes typically focus on lifting and defining the eye area to achieve a more open look.

In contrast, non-hooded eyes have a prominent crease with no excess skin covering it, allowing for a wider range of makeup options. Makeup for non-hooded eyes often emphasizes natural features and experimentation with various eyeshadows and eyeliners.

Distinguishing between hooded and non-hooded eyelids is primarily based on their distinct appearances:

Eyelid Crease and Excess Skin: Hooded eyelids exhibit an excess of skin in the upper eyelid area, often covering part of the movable lid and making the eyelid crease less visible. In contrast, non-hooded eyelids have a clearly defined crease where the skin adheres closely to the lid, allowing the full extent of the movable lid to be visible.

Opening of the Eyes: Hooded eyelids can make the eyes appear smaller because they reduce the visible area of the movable eyelid. This can give the eyes a tired or less alert look. On the other hand, non-hooded eyelids typically give a more open and alert appearance.

Wrinkling: Hooded eyelids tend to develop deeper wrinkles in the eyelid crease due to the accumulation of excess skin. These wrinkles may become more prominent over time. While wrinkles can also form on non-hooded eyelids, they are generally less affected by excess skin.

TECHNIQUES OF APPLYING MAKEUP FOR HOODED EYES

Mastering makeup for droopy eyelids can be transformative. Here’s a refined guide:

Create a Bright Base: Apply a light, neutral eyeshadow to your entire movable eyelid. This serves as a luminous canvas, making your eyes appear larger and more open.

Define Your Lash Line: Use a thin line of eyeliner along your upper lash line, extending it slightly upward at the outer corner. This enhances your lash line and creates an upward lift.

Amplify Your Lashes: Apply generous coats of mascara to both upper and lower lashes. This opens up your eyes and draws attention to your lashes.

Frame Your Eyes: Well-groomed eyebrows can significantly enhance your eye area. Pluck and shape them neatly for a polished look.

Illuminate Inner Corners: Apply a shimmery eyeshadow in a light shade to the inner corners of your eyes. This strategic placement instantly brightens and widens your eyes.

BOTOX FOR HOODED EYES

Many people have tried using tape to temporarily lift drooping eyelids, but this is not a long-term solution. If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your eyelids without resorting to surgery, Botox might be a suitable option. 

Botox offers a temporary, non-surgical solution for drooping eyelids. By relaxing the muscles that contribute to eyelid droop, Botox can create a more open and alert appearance.

While the effects typically last three to six months, it’s crucial to consult a qualified specialist for this procedure. They can accurately assess your needs, administer the injections with precision, and help you manage expectations for optimal results.

WHAT IS EYELID SURGERY FOR HOODED EYES?

Drooping eyelids, or ptosis, can be corrected through eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. This procedure involves removing excess skin and fatty tissue around the eyes to create a more open appearance. While often performed for cosmetic reasons, it also addresses medical concerns as drooping eyelids can obstruct vision. 

An experienced plastic surgeon typically performs the surgery, making incisions along the natural eyelid creases to minimize scarring. Following the procedure, patients generally experience swelling and bruising, but can resume normal activities within a week. The final results become apparent as the swelling subsides.

FAQ

1. How do I know if I have hooded eyes?

If your eye has a fold, but you can’t see it because there’s extra skin covering it, you likely have hooded eyes.

2. Are hooded eyes pretty?

Yes, hooded eyes can be beautiful! Many famous people, like Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lawrence, have hooded eyes. Beauty is different for everyone, and lots of people find hooded eyes attractive.

3. How can I tell if I have hooded or monolid eyes?

If you don’t have a fold, you have monolid eyes. you have a shallow fold or none at all, your eyes might not be monolid or hooded. If you can see the fold, and it’s deep enough to hide under your eyebrow, you likely have hooded eyes.

4. What’s the rarest eye shape?

The almond shape is often thought to be the rarest. It gives a unique and captivating look.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the distinctions between hooded eyelids and non-hooded is essential for both aesthetic and functional reasons. While hooded eyelids present unique challenges and opportunities in makeup application and skincare, they are not inherently inferior to non-hooded eyelids.  By recognizing the differences and similarities between these eyelid types, individuals can confidently accentuate their natural eye shape and achieve a desired look.

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.