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I’ve been wondering the best way to apply makeup for hooded eyes over 60, so I did some research. I wasn’t born with hooded eyelids but now that I’m closer to 60, there’s a definite droop in the skin.
Do you wear makeup everyday or just on special occasions? I don’t wear makeup nearly as much as I used to. That said, there are times when I want to add some color around my eyes. The trick, of course, is working around those hooded eyelids.
Understanding makeup techniques tailored to mature lids is important. The reality is that our skin has changed a lot since we were young! No kidding, right?
My eyelids used to be a smooth, clear canvas for any kind of makeup. Now, I have to lift the extra skin out of the way to apply eyeshadow, and sometimes even that doesn’t work.
This is why I went looking for tips and tricks on how to better accentuate my eyes. I’ve discovered the best ways to work with mature eyes over 60, and I’m sharing that information with you today.
Sudden Eyelid Droopiness?
If you’re over 60 and notice that one or both of your eyelids suddenly start drooping, don’t just brush it off as another sign of aging.
A sudden change like that could be a sign of something more serious, like a nerve issue, a stroke, or another underlying condition.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make an appointment with your doctor to get it checked out. Even if it turns out to be nothing major, at least you’ll have peace of mind.
Why is it so hard to apply makeup for hooded eyes over 60?
Hooded eyes are characterized by a natural crease that’s less visible due to extra skin on the upper lid. This shape makes it hard to achieve certain eye makeup techniques.
The loose, saggy skin makes it really hard to apply makeup for hooded eyes over 60. The makeup doesn’t seem to want to stay where you place. In some cases, the eye makeup seems to disappear entirely when you open your eyes.
Unless you’re using an eyelid primer and a good quality no-smudge product, you’ll likely end up with “travelling” makeup. Smudged eye makeup that ends up smeared near your eyebrows isn’t a good look.
Okay, the skin changes are normal, but that doesn’t make it any easier
It’s normal to notice changes to the skin around our eyes (and everywhere else) as we get older. Skin naturally loses elasticity, and that can lead to sagging or dropping. Sometimes, the upper eyelid might start folding over the lash line, giving it a more hooded look.
To make matters worse, the muscles that keep our eyelids lifted tend to get weaker. When that happens, fat shifts forward and causes puffiness, making our eyes look tired.
At least it has a name
We call it “baggy eyes”, but the medical term is dermatochalasis.
Unless it obstructs your vision or is associated with other health issues, it’s generally nothing to worry about. Again, check with your physician if you’ve suddenly develeloped droopy eyelids, or if you suspect there is something else (besides normal ageing) going on.
There are cosmetic procedures you can have done that will repair the droop. However, for the sake of this post let’s assume you just want to learn how to apply makeup for hooded eyes over 60.
Watch this Youtube Video on How to Apply Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
5 Easy Ways to Apply Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
Do you remember when you first started experimenting with eye makeup? I was in Grade 5. One of my friends had a baby blue stick (like lipstick) that we smeared over our lids. I’m not sure what the ingredients were, but it left a waxy mess in its wake.
We always made sure to wash our faces before we went home from school. If only makeup application was that simple today!
Thankfully, makeup artists have mastered tricks to create a more lifted look for hooded eyes over 60. Check out the following five tips on ways to apply makeup for hooded eyes over 60.
STEP 1: Use Primer Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
Okay, I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t know eyeshadow primer existed until recently. Apparently, a quality eyeshadow primer is helpful for mature eyes with dry skin or oily skin. It smooths the lid, allowing eyeshadow to blend easily without creasing.
Brands like Urban Decay offer great eyeshadow primers that create a base for powder shadows, helping them adhere better for a longer-lasting look.
The benefits of using a good quality eye-lid primer include the following:
- Creates an even base, preventing eyeshadow from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.
- Helps counteract dullness, making lids look more refreshed and youthful.
- Makes it easier to blend and ensures that colors apply evenly.
- Helps neutral shades and softer tones stand out, preventing them from looking washed out.
- Keeps eyeshadow in place all day, reducing smudging or fading.
- Choosing a lightweight formula avoids heaviness or buildup in fine lines.
2. Choosing the Best Eye Color Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
Choosing the right eye shadow colors and textures is essential for a flawless look.
Neutral shades like taupe, soft brown, and lighter shades of champagne or cream are ideal for a more natural look, while slightly darker colors like rich brown or dark brown can help contour and add depth.
Powder shadows blend well and give a smoother finish. I prefer a matte shadow for mature skin. Glittery eyeshadow or highly pigmented shades are harder to work with. Cream shadows can also work if applied lightly with a flat brush.
For added dimension, use a lighter color on the brow bone area and the inner corner of the eye. You can use a medium neutral color the crease to give the illusion of contour.
Again, matte or satin finishes work better over shimmery shadows. They’re are often more flattering on mature skin and help define the natural crease without highlighting texture or excess skin.
3. Creating Depth and Definition with Darker Shades
To give hooded eyes a more lifted look, use a darker shadow along the outer corner of your eye and upper lash line. This creates depth and enhances the eye’s shape, giving the appearance of more lid space.
Use a fluffy brush to blend the darker color from the outer edge of your eye inward.
Focus on the crease and outer corner to build a subtle smokey eye make-up look. For mature eyes, a small amount of shadow goes a long way.
Use a slightly smaller brush for precision, applying the color just to the outer corner of the eyes. This technique adds depth without overpowering the eye area, giving a more youthful, defined effect.
4. Eyeliner Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
When it comes to eyeliner, a thin line along the upper lash line works best for hooded eyes. A thick line can make the eyes look smaller.
Makeup artists suggest using a pencil eyeliner in rich black or dark brown. In my experience, dragging a pencil across the loose skin of my eyelids is disastrous. Instead, I use a liquid (waterproof) eyeliner. I also use a magnified mirror so that I can clearly see what I’m doing.
I love the results!
Other makeup artists suggested applying eyeliner right in the water line of your eye. It might look great, but I don’t want to risk an infection in my eye. I only apply makeup on my skin, not my waterline.
Liquid eyeliner can create a more dramatic effect, but it’s best to use it sparingly. A very thin line on the outer edge of your eye can help lift the eyes, and pairing it with a lighter color on the lower lashes can create balance.
Avoid using dark colors on the entire lower lash line, as this can make the eyes appear smaller. In addition, it can give you an outdated look.
5. Blending for a Soft, Eye-Opening Effect
If using a powder eyeshadow, make sure to blend out any harsh lines. This will soften the look and create a more wide-awake effect.
If you’re using a creamy shadow you can gently use the tip of your finger. For better results, use an eye makeup blender sponge.
Finishing Touches: Lashes and Brows
Lashes and brows can be just as tricky as dealing with droopy eyelids. As we age, our lashes and brows thin out. Unless you opt for microblading (or another similar cosmetic procedure), you may want to try one of the following options.
- Natural length fake eyelashes or individual lashes. Avoid heavy, full-strip lashes because they can make mature lids look weighed down.
- Use a brow pen to create hair-like strokes for a natural look. This will help fill out a thinning brow tail.
- A fine-tip brow pencil or brow pen allows you to create hair-like strokes for a natural look, while a tinted brow gel with fibers can add volume to sparse areas.
Keeping the brows groomed and adding a slight arch can frame the eyes and provide a more lifted, structured look. For a natural result, fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder in a neutral color that matches your skin tone.
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Experimenting with Different Ways to Apply Makeup For Hooded Eyes Over 60
The best way to create a look that works for you is to experiment. Look for products specifically designed for ageing skin and remember to buy contrasting colors. You’ll need a brighter shadow for your brow bone and a darker shadow for the crease.
Summary
Makeup is all about enhancing your natural features and having fun. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, liners, and finishes until you find the perfect look for you.
Remember, the best makeup for hooded eyes over 60 is one that makes you feel confident and brings out your beauty!