Alright, I have finally discovered the secret to applying eyeshadow on hooded eyes—here's what you need to know.

      As a beauty editor, one of the initial lessons I learned when I delved into the world of makeup is that the shape of your eyes will influence your entire technique for applying eyeshadow—or any eye makeup, particularly for hooded eyes. I recall the first time I experimented with eyeliner during my teenage years; I couldn't grasp why my friend's eyeliner wing appeared so sharp and flawless, while mine seemed off. After watching numerous YouTube makeup tutorials and studying makeup artist guides, I discovered that I have hooded eyes. Like all eye shapes, they necessitate a distinct approach to eye makeup, especially for eyeshadow application. Eye makeup techniques vary significantly based on eye shapes.

      If you’re reading this, it's likely that you're seeking advice on how to apply eyeshadow for hooded eyes. Therefore, I consulted one of the most renowned makeup artists in the world, Charlotte Tilbury MBE, to guide me through essential tips, tricks, and common mistakes to avoid when working with eyeshadow on hooded eyes. But first, what exactly are hooded eyes, and how can you tell if you have them?

      Hooded eyes are characterized by the skin on the upper lid or brow bone obscuring the natural crease of the eyes. "People with hooded eyes typically have less visible eyelid space when viewed head-on, resulting in some of the eyeshadow being concealed," explains Tilbury. If you've ever carefully applied eyeshadow, then relaxed your eyelids only to find it has seemingly vanished in the mirror, you may very well have hooded eyes too. This eye shape often stems from genetics and heritage, but can also become more pronounced with age as our eye area matures. The degree of hooding can vary; for instance, mine are more hooded toward the outer corners but have more visible lid space towards the inner corners. Like any other eye shape, hooded eyes are stunning, and many celebrities, such as Zendaya and Adriana Lima, naturally have this eye shape.

      Fortunately, there are numerous tips, techniques, and approaches to applying eyeshadow on hooded eyes that can enhance their shape. "Different eyeshadow styles suit various eye shapes, so understanding your eye type allows you to create simple, effortless looks that uplift and illuminate your natural features," notes Tilbury. Keep reading for expert-backed tips on applying eyeshadow for hooded eye shapes.

      ### How to Apply Eyeshadow for Hooded Eyes

      **Choose Matte Eyeshadows**

      According to Tilbury, matte eyeshadows are ideal for hooded eyes, particularly neutral shades of beige and brown, which provide natural definition and make the eyes appear larger. Overly shimmery or glittery formulas can sometimes weigh the eyes down. Start by selecting an eyeshadow that closely matches your skin tone to serve as a base, helping any additional products adhere better. After that, you should define the crease of your eyes.

      **Define the Crease**

      "Individuals with hooded eyes often have limited visible eyelid space when looking straight ahead, meaning some of the eyeshadow can get lost, so the key is to go a bit up and out," says Tilbury. "Apply eyeshadow slightly beyond the eyelid and into the crease, then blend upwards and outwards," she suggests, which may involve applying it above your natural crease or even onto the brow bone. While this might feel unusual initially, it ensures that even when your eyes are resting, the eyeshadow remains visible, creating a wide-eyed illusion. "Using my Eye Blender Brush (£26), apply eyeshadow side to side on the lid like a windshield wiper," Tilbury advises, "and blend it up and out past the eyelid for that lifted look." This technique defines the crease and frames your eyes. She also recommends balancing the overall appearance by adding a touch of eyeshadow along the lower lid. "Be careful not to go overboard. Using the same shade as on your upper eyelid, employ my Eye Smudger Brush (£26) to apply color along your lower lash line, and remember to blend."

      **Tilt Your Head as You Apply**

      "When applying eyeshadow to your lids, tilt your chin up and look down into your mirror to view your entire eyelid, and if you're working on the lower part of your eyes, lower your chin," says Tilbury. "This technique allows for precision on the largest area of your eyes without smudging!" Additionally, try not to raise your brows too much while applying and check the look as your eyes rest, as this reflects how they will appear most of the time. "Regardless of your eye shape, you should always apply the product upward and outward to create the illusion of brighter, larger eyes," she explains.

      **Accentuate the Inner Corners**

      This is a classic red carpet strategy to make eyes appear larger. "To instantly enhance the size and brightness of hooded eyes, apply the lightest shade from one of my Pal