Makeup for Hooded Eyes: Placement Guide for Contour, Blush, Brows & Highlight
For hooded eyes, strategic makeup placement can maximize visible lid space and create a lifted, open look. Use these proven techniques for contour, blush, brows, and highlight.

Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Placement for Hooded Eyes
- Apply eyeshadow with your eyes open to see where the fold hides your lid.
- Place your transition or crease shade slightly above your natural crease, onto the lower brow bone, so it stays visible when your eyes are open.
- Keep eyeliner thin and pressed tight to the lash line; thick liner disappears under the hood.
- Smoke or blend shadow at the outer corners up and out for a lifted effect.
- Use lighter, shimmery shades on the mobile lid to bring it forward.
Contour Placement for Hooded Eyes
Contour should subtly lift and define the eye area:
- Apply a cool-toned contour powder or shadow just above your natural crease, following the shadow placement tips above.
- For the face, contour cheekbones slightly higher than usual to help lift the overall eye area, blending upward toward the temples.
- If your face shape is unique, scan your selfie with Makeup Check AI to pinpoint your ideal contour lines.
Blush Placement for a Lifted Look
- For hooded eyes, sweep blush onto the upper outer apples of your cheeks, blending up toward the tops of your ears.
- This placement draws attention upward and balances the features.
- Choose blush shades that complement your skin undertone; Makeup Check AI can analyze your selfie to recommend your best hues.
Brow & Highlight Techniques
- Shape brows with a gentle arch slightly above your natural brow bone, avoiding a downward tail which can pull the eyes down.
- Keep brows lifted and softly defined for a more open look.
- Highlight the brow bone just under the arch, not too close to the hood, and dab a touch on the inner eye corners to brighten and open up the eyes.
Not sure of your eye shape? Makeup Check AI detects it from a selfie and shows you where liner and shadow flatter you most.
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Where should I apply eyeshadow if I have hooded eyes?
Apply your crease shade slightly above your natural crease, with eyes open, so it stays visible above the hood.
How do I place eyeliner on hooded eyes?
Keep eyeliner thin and close to the lash line. Avoid thick lines, as they will disappear under the fold.
Does blush placement matter for hooded eyes?
Yes. Apply blush on the upper outer cheeks and blend upward to lift your features and draw attention away from the hood.
How can I find my exact face shape or undertone for makeup?
Use Makeup Check AI to scan your selfie and receive personalized recommendations based on your unique features.
What's the best way to highlight hooded eyes?
Highlight under the brow arch and inner corners to brighten and lift the eye area, avoiding shimmer directly on the hood.