Ever spent ages perfecting your eye makeup only for it to disappear under your hooded lids? Finding the right mascara can feel like a quest for hidden treasure.
In 2024, the beauty world has unleashed some game-changing mascaras that promise to solve this dilemma. These wand options are designed to lift, define, and last all day without smudging or clumping. So, what’s the secret behind these must-have mascaras?
What are Hooded Eyes?
Hooded eyes have a unique shape where a fold of skin droops over the crease, making the eyelid appear smaller or sometimes almost hidden.
This eye shape can create challenges with makeup application, particularly when it comes to mascara. It’s all about finding the right products that can enhance your eyes without smudging or disappearing into the crease.
Mascara struggles for hooded eyes
Applying mascara on hooded eyes can be quite challenging, and you’re certainly not alone in this struggle. One of the primary issues is smudging and transferring. The extra skin fold can trap mascara, causing it to smudge and transfer onto your upper lids, which leads to that frustrating panda-eye effect.
If you have hooded eyes (well! obviously you do that’s why you’re here), you might notice that your lashes lose their curl throughout the day. Traditional mascara formulas often lack the strength to counteract the weight of the hood, resulting in straight and unflattering lashes.
Another challenge is dealing with short and straighter lashes. The same fold that hides eyeliner can also obscure your mascara, making your lashes appear shorter and less noticeable.
Clumping and weighing down is another issue; applying too much mascara can weigh down your lashes, making them droop and highlighting the hood. Finally, with limited lid space, applying mascara accurately without touching your hooded folds can be difficult, often leading to an uneven and messy application.
What to Look for in a Mascara for Hooded Eyes
Choosing the perfect mascara for hooded eyes can be a game-changer. The right formula can accentuate your eyes and ensure your makeup stays flawless throughout the day.
When searching for the best mascara, keep an eye out for these essential features:
Wand size and shape matters
Thin, Tapered Wand with Short Bristles: Ditch the fat, fluffy brushes! They’re more likely to smudge and weigh down your lashes. Instead, a thin, tapered wand with short bristles lets you reach tiny lashes near your tear duct and hug the base for maximum definition.
Slightly Bent Wand: A wand with a slight bend helps lift and curl your lashes, opening up your eyes and defying the gravity of your hood.
Formula
Smudges and flakes are the enemy! Choose a formula that’s:
- Waterproof Formula: Opt for a lightweight formula that dries quickly and prevents smudging and transferring, ensuring your eye makeup stays intact throughout the day.
- Lightweight & volumizing: It adds oomph without weighing down your lashes, keeping them lifted and fluttery.
- Curl-Holding Properties: Look for mascaras that offer long-lasting curl hold to counteract the natural contact between the lashes and the upper lid.
- Non-Clumping Formulation: Hooded eyes can be prone to clumping, so select a mascara that separates and defines the lashes without clumping them together.
- Gentle and Non-Irritating Formulas: Opt for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products and ophthalmologist-tested formulas to minimize the risk of discomfort or irritation.
Bonus Tip: Curl your lashes before applying mascara! This gives them a head start against the hood and helps the mascara hold the curl better.
“For extra drama, try layering a volumizing mascara with a lengthening one. Apply the volumizing mascara first at the base of your lashes, then follow with the lengthening mascara on the tips.”
– Pat McGrath, Makeup Artist & Global Creative Design Director
Top Mascaras for Hooded Eyes in 2024
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With these features in mind, let’s dive into the best mascaras of 2024 that cater specifically to hooded eyes.
Here are some of the best mascaras for hooded eyes, according to makeup artists and beauty experts:
Overall Best Mascara for Hooded Eyes
Let’s begin by sharing our absolute favorite mascara choices for hooded eyes. If you need help finding the right one, this particular one is definitely worth considering. Seriously! They won’t disappoint!
Lancome Lash Idole Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Mascara $28
This crowd-pleaser boasts a uniquely designed 360° micro-brush that reaches every lash, even the tiny ones near your tear duct, often prone to disappearing with hooded eyes. Its lengthening formula delivers up to 4x longer lashes without clumping, creating a beautifully defined and fluttery look.
- Special Features: 360° micro-brush
- Best for: Dramatic results, long-lasting curl hold.
- Not so good: Higher price point.
- Final Verdict: Perfect for creating a bold look while maintaining long-lasting wear without smudging.
The Good:
- 360° micro-brush: Reaches even the tiniest lashes, ideal for hooded eyes.
- Lengthening formula: Up to 4x longer lashes for definition and flutter.
- Highly smudge-proof and waterproof: Great for all-day wear and oily skin.
- Gentle formula: Contains lash-conditioning ingredients.
- Luxury brand experience: Sleek packaging and high-quality feel.
The Bad:
- Moderate volume
- Higher price point: More expensive than drugstore options.
Best Volumizing & Lifting Mascara
Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara $27
Known for its hourglass shaped brush that provides intense volume and lift, this mascara is perfect for achieving a bold, full look. It separates lashes beautifully but may require careful application to avoid clumping
- Special Features: Features a unique hourglass shaped brush that provides intense volume and lift.
- Best for: Excellent volume, separates lashes beautifully.
- The not so good: Can be a bit clumpy if over-applied.
- Final Verdict: Ideal for those looking to add dramatic volume and lift.
The Good:
- Great volumizing effect: Creates full, dramatic lashes without clumping.
- Highly smudge-proof and waterproof: Ideal for long wear and oily environments.
- Gentle formula: Generally well-tolerated by sensitive eyes.
- Popular choice: Widely loved for its performance and luxurious feel.
The Bad:
- Moderate lengthening effect: Not the best for those seeking extreme lash length.
- Curling power might not be enough for all: May not hold a significant curl on stubborn lashes.
- Higher price point: More expensive than some drugstore options.
- Hourglass brush may not suit everyone: Some users find it difficult to control or reach smaller lashes.
Best Affordable Option
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara $5
This mascara has gained a cult following for its ability to create dramatic, volumized lashes without breaking the bank. This incredibly affordable mascara delivers dramatic volume and a false lash effect at a budget-friendly price. It conic shape wand separates and defines lashes well, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enhance their lashes without spending much.
- Special Features: Budget-friendly with a formula that adds volume and definition.
- Pros: Affordable, effective volume, and decent staying power.
- Cons: May require multiple coats for full effect.
- Final Verdict: Great for those on a budget who want quality results without spending a fortune.
The Good:
- Waterproof and smudge-proof: Ideal for all-day wear and humid environments.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly drugstore option.
- Cruelty-free: Appeals to those who prefer cruelty-free makeup.
- Widely available: Easy to find at drugstores and online retailers.
- Pigmented formula: Delivers noticeable color and definition.
The bad:
- Potential for clumping: Thick formula requires careful application to avoid clumps.
- May not be suitable for sensitive eyes: Some users report experiencing irritation.
Best Waterproof Mascara for Oily Hooded Eyes
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara $9
This drugstore gem features a unique sky-high brush with innovative “skyscraper” bristles that effectively lift and volumize lashes.
Its lightweight formula avoids weighing down hooded lids, and the flexible brush maneuvers well to coat even the tiniest lashes, preventing smudging and transfer.
- Special Features: Water-resistant formula that prevents smudging and transferring.
- Pros: Long-wearing, resistant to oil and humidity.
- Cons: Can be difficult to remove.
- Final Verdict: Ideal for oily lids and humid conditions, offering reliable staying power.
The Good:
- Unique “skyscraper” brush: Excellent at lifting and holding a curl.
- Impressive lengthening effect: Delivers noticeable lash length.
- Builds volume effectively: Creates fuller lashes without clumping.
- Highly affordable: Budget-friendly drugstore option.
- Widely available: Easy to find at most drugstores and retailers.
The Bad:
- Not universally praised for smudge-proofness: Some users report minor smudging in extreme conditions.
- May not be as gentle as Lancôme: Formula doesn’t contain specific lash-conditioning ingredients.
Overall
Both mascaras offer excellent water resistance, smudge-proof formulas, and gentle ingredients. However, their strengths differ:
- Lancôme Lash Idôle: Excels in smudge-proof performance and gentle formula, but offers moderate curl and volume.
- Maybelline Sky High: Boasts impressive curl power, good length and volume, but might not be quite as smudge-proof as Lancôme.
Best Volumizing Mascara
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Mascara $25
This mascara excels in adding significant volume while keeping lashes separate and defined. It’s perfect for achieving a dramatic look with no clumping, making it a favorite for bold, full lashes.
- Special Features: Adds significant volume while keeping lashes separate and defined.
- Best for: Intense volume, no clumping.
- The not so good: Higher price point.
- Final Verdict: Excellent for achieving bold, voluminous lashes with a clean application.
The Good:
- Provides dramatic volume without clumping.
- Separates and defines lashes beautifully.
The Bad: Higher cost compared to drugstore mascaras.
Best Lengthening Mascara
L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara $10
Featuring a long wand for precise application, this mascara excels at adding length to lashes, enhancing their definition without adding excessive volume. It’s ideal for a more refined, elongated look.
- Special Features: Features a long wand for precise lengthening.
- Best for: Great lengthening, separates lashes effectively.
- The not so good: Less volumizing than some other options.
- Final Verdict: Perfect for those seeking lengthening without adding excessive volume.
The Good:
- Ideal for adding length and enhancing lash definition.
- Long wand allows for precise application.
The Bad: May not provide as much volume as other mascaras.
Best Long-Lasting Mascara
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Mascara $19
Designed for all-day wear, this mascara provides intense volume and lasting performance with no need for touch-ups. It’s perfect for extended wear, ensuring your lashes look great from morning to night.
- Special Features: Long-lasting formula with intense volume.
- Pros: Reliable all-day wear, no touch-ups needed.
- Cons: Higher price point.
- Final Verdict: Ideal for all-day wear with reliable, intense volume.
The Good:
- Provides lasting volume and performance throughout the day.
- Great for extended wear without needing to reapply.
The Bad: Expensive compared to other options.
Best Mascara for Small Lashes
CoverGirl Clump Crusher Extensions Mascara $9
Specially designed for small or sparse lashes, this mascara enhances and separates without clumping. It’s perfect for detailed application, making every lash visible and defined.
- Special Features: Enhances and separates small lashes without clumping.
- Pros: Great for detailed application, prevents clumping.
- Cons: May not provide as much volume.
- Final Verdict: Excellent for small or sparse lashes, offering precise enhancement and definition.
The Good:
- Enhances small lashes and prevents clumping.
- Ideal for detailed application and definition.
The Bad: Less volume compared to other mascaras.
Best Drugstore Mascara
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara $13
Combining volumizing and lengthening properties, this drugstore favorite delivers high performance at an affordable price. It provides impressive results without the high cost.
- Special Features: Combines volumizing and lengthening properties at an affordable price.
- Pros: High performance, budget-friendly.
- Cons: Can be a bit heavy.
- Final Verdict: A solid choice for high performance and affordability in a drugstore mascara.
The Good:
- Offers impressive volume and length at a great price.
- Reliable performance for daily use.
The Bad: May feel heavy on the lashes.
Best for everyday use
Clinique High Impact Mascara $26
This mascara offers a natural yet defined look, making it ideal for daily wear. It’s gentle on sensitive eyes and versatile enough for various everyday looks, providing reliable performance.
- Special Features: Natural yet defined look suitable for daily wear.
- Pros: Gentle on sensitive eyes, versatile.
- Cons: Not as dramatic for special occasions.
- Final Verdict: Ideal for daily use with a natural, defined look and gentle formula.
The Good:
- Provides a natural, defined look ideal for everyday wear.
- Gentle and suitable for sensitive eyes.
The Bad: Less dramatic compared to other options.
Helpful Tips for Applying Mascara on Hooded Eyes
Following these tips will give you the desired result.
Clean lashes: Make sure your lashes are clean.
Curl before Mascara: Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara to lift your eyes.
Wiggle the Wand: Wiggle the wand at the base of the lashes and then comb through to the tips when applying mascara. This technique helps distribute the product evenly and prevents clumping.
Focus on the Outer Corners: Concentrate more mascara on the outer corners of the lashes to give the illusion of an elongated eye shape.
Avoid Overloading the Brush: Scrap excess mascara from the wand before applying it to prevent clumps and smudges.
Layering for Intensity: Apply multiple coats of mascara, allowing each coat to dry before adding another for a more intense and dramatic look.
Spoolie brush trick: Grab a clean spoolie brush and comb your lashes to eliminate any pesky clumps.
Tips for Long-Lasting Results
To ensure your mascara stays put all day, consider the following tips:
Primer: Apply an eyelash primer before mascara to create a smooth base and improve longevity.
Avoid Touching: Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes throughout the day to prevent smudging or flaking.
Avoid Oil-Based Products: Oil-based products can break down mascara, leading to smudging. Opt for oil-free skincare and makeup products.
Setting Spray: Use a setting spray to lock in your mascara and prevent transfer.
Makeup tips for hooded eyes
Eyeshadow:
Wear eyeshadows that accentuate your eyes, either open or closed. A smoky cat eye or sooty liner can be incredibly attractive for a party look. Use a primer and setting spray to prevent eyeshadow creases and smudgy mascara traces.
Eyeliner:
To create the illusion of a lifted lid, apply eyeliner in smooth wings. Following this tip can help open up Your eyes and make them appear more wider.
Pop of Color:
Dab on some lighter, brighter eye shadow in the inner corners of your eyes. This can help lift the appearance of the lid and open up your eyes even more.
Mascara:
Choose mascaras with a medium-sized brush to avoid getting in the way of your hooded eyelids. Also, always go for a waterproof mascaras with quick drying time. This can help prevent smudging onto your eyelids.
How to Remove Mascara Effectively?
Taking care of your lashes is important, and that means removing waterproof mascara properly. Follow these simple steps to remove your mascara and keep your lashes looking and healthy.
- Gentle Cleanser: Use a soft, oil-free eye makeup remover or micellar water.
- Soak and Hold: Soak a cotton pad with the remover and hold it against your closed eyelid for a few seconds to allow the product to break down the mascara.
- Swipe Away: Gently swipe the cotton pad across your lashes, moving from the base to the tips until all mascara is removed.
- Cleansing: Finish by cleansing your lashes with a mild facial cleanser to remove any residue.
Pro tip: If you have hooded eyes, it is best to have two different mascaras – one for everyday use and another for special occasions.
FAQs
- How can I prevent mascara from transferring to my upper eyelids?
- Opt for waterproof mascaras and ensure the formula is fully dry before opening your eyes. Consider using a clean mascara wand to comb through the lashes and remove any excess product.
- Should I curl my lashes before or after applying mascara?
- It’s best to curl your lashes before applying mascara to achieve maximum lift and prevent clumping.
- How often should I replace my mascara?
- Mascara should be replaced every three to six months to maintain hygiene and prevent bacterial contamination.
- Can I use mascara on my lower lashes as well?
- Absolutely! Applying mascara to the lower lashes can enhance the overall eye makeup look. However, use a light hand and opt for a defining mascara to avoid a heavy, smudged appearance.
- Are there any specific ingredients to avoid in mascara for hooded eyes?
- Avoid mascaras with heavy, oil-based formulas as they may contribute to smudging and transferring on the upper eyelid.
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