The Best Eye Makeup for Hooded Eyes, According to a Makeup Artist
No smudging here.
For anyone with hooded eyes, achieving long-lasting and dramatic lashes can be a major struggle. Mascara, the go-to product for easy lash amplification, can mean smudges and streaks for those without a ton of lid space. The trick isn't to forgo eye makeup—it's finding the right products and techniques that work for your eye shape. Enter makeup artist Vincent Oquendo—whose clients include Camila Mendes, Dove Cameron, and Karlie Kloss, to name a few—who shared some pro insights for finding the right mascara, along with a few expert tips for brightening the eyes.
Find a Waterproof Mascara
"The biggest struggle for hooded eyes is finding one that won’t smudge all around," Oquendo says. The solution is to seek out a product that simply won't smudge, also known as waterproof mascara.
For anyone who's opposed to waterproof formulas, it's important to steer clear of creamy eyeshadows that can break down lash products. "I would avoid any glossy or creamy eyeshadows that don’t set," Oquendo says. "Those can cause your mascara to melt due to the hooded eye shape, and therefore transfer mascara to your crease and under-eye areas fairly easily."
Shop These Mascaras Approved For Hooded Eyes
Invest in Eye-Brightening Products
Invest in Eye-Brightening ProductsIf mascara isn't letting you achieve the dramatic lashes of your dreams, it may be time to accessorize. "I’ve found that curling your lashes properly can dramatically lift your eye," says Oquendo. For a virtual night out, faux lashes are calling your name. "I would also recommend a pair of false lashes at the outer corners of your eyes."
This subtle boost will really open the eyes and give a doe-eyed appearance. And to brighten up your look overall, "Lumify redness reliever eye drops help to reduce redness and play up the natural beauty of your eyes, no matter the shape, size or color."
Shop These Lash Intensifying Products
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends. She's a fan of vodka tonics and creepy Wikipedia pages.
-
Luxéol: The Reason All French Women Have Beautiful Hair
It's their best-kept secret.
By Marie Claire Editors Published
-
'The Recruit' Creator Alexi Hawley Is Feeling "Super Positive" About the Thriller's Season 3 Chances
Here's where the Noah Centineo-led Netflix thriller could go after season 2's twist-filled ending.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Netflix's Spy Thriller 'The Recruit' Is Back With a New Seoul-Set Conspiracy—Meet the New Cast Members
Heartthrobs Noah Centineo and Teo Yoo lead season 2 of Netflix's hit espionage series.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Nécessaire's Extra-Strength Deodorant Outlasts an Editor's Sweatiest Test: Fashion Week
Even with my hectic schedule, I've never smelled better.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Lily-Rose Depp’s Cool-Toned Makeup Is So ‘90s Coded
Clean girl meets grunge.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
The 13 Best Foundations for Mature Skin, Tested by Women Over 50
It's perfect for mature complexions.
By Siena Gagliano Published
-
Gray Hair Was the Hottest Accessory at the 2025 Golden Globes
Gray hair is chic, period.
By Hannah Baxter Published
-
25 Brown Nail Designs To Instantly Elevate Winter's Hottest Polish Trend
Luxury at your fingertips.
By Emma Aerin Becker Published
-
Billie EIlish’s Makeup Routine Is Surprisingly Wearable and Lasts for Hours
Her makeup routine is full of drugstore staples.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
20 Beauty Stocking Stuffers Guaranteed to Please Your Pickiest Family Members
Beauty editor-tested and approved.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
24 Luxury Beauty and Wellness Gifts for Your Pickiest Self-Care Obsessed Friends
Guaranteed to please even your pickiest friends and family.
By Hannah Baxter Published