12 Best Mascaras for Hooded Eyes to Elevate Your Lash Game

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Mar 11, 2024
mascaras for hooded eyes
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Based on our observations, individuals with hooded eyes are met with a lot of challenges when it comes to finding the right kind of eye makeup, particularly mascaras. But that doesn't mean they cannot have long and luscious lashes because we are here with our curation of the best mascaras for hooded eyes that will transform how you do your eye makeup. 

The biggest dilemma often remains, ‘how to accentuate the lashes without getting any marks on the hoods?’ But fret not! After putting numerous products to the test, we stumbled upon 11 mascaras that are long-lasting, durable, and absolutely perfect for hooded eyes. 

These mascaras are great for the non-makeup makeup look as well as dramatic smokey eyes. You can toy around with numerous trends and be certain that your eyes will do all the talking. Check out our enlisted options to add some drama to your everyday looks with the best mascaras for hooded eyes.

12 Best Mascaras for Hooded Eyes

Nothing beats the beauty of long lashes even on a no makeup face. This easy-to-use wand by Lord & Berry lifts even fine hair from root to tip. Moreover, it opens up and widens hooded eyes. The long-lasting technology ensures your eyes look radiant all the time. The buildable formula allows you to experiment with numerous looks. This mascara not only lengthens but hydrates the lashes with each stroke. You can easily use this to create a dramatic effect as well as a simple work look that takes you from AM to PM within seconds.

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Long-lasting
  • Rich pigment
  • Best applicator
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Best Drugstore

    Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift

    Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift
  • There are several reasons why the Maybelline Falsies Mascara has a cult following. It is the best drugstore mascara for hooded eyes that you can get your hands on. True to its name, with just a stroke or two, this award-winning mascara can help you achieve a lash effect that looks quite similar to wearing falsies. Its fiber-infused formula holds the curl for a long time and with ease. It adds an instantly dramatic length, volume, and lash lift in one go. We have found from using this product that it has a double curved brush, which makes application easier and smoother.

    Pros
    • Offers good coverage
    • Doesn’t smear or flake
    • Makes lashes look fuller
    • Lasts long
    • Easy to take off
    • Comes in different variants
    Cons
    • May clump a little
  • Best Hypoallergenic

    Beautify Beauties Easy on the Eyes Sensitive Mascara

    Beautify Beauties Easy on the Eyes Sensitive Mascara
  • This is the best mascara for hooded eyes if you have terribly sensitive eyes. It stands true to its claims and is actually easy on the eyes, thanks to its hypoallergenic and smudge-proof formula. Available in 3 different colors, black, brown, and navy, it is sensitive eyes' perfect ally for everyday eye makeup. Formulated with natural waxes and clays, it not only defines your lashes but also strengthens them to prevent their unwanted falling off. After trying out this product, we can say that it helps create a very soft and natural look that you will love for sure.

    Pros
    • Easy to use and remove
    • Non-irritating
    • Buildable finish
    • Good coverage
    • Full-bristled brush applicator
    • Doesn’t flake
    • Feels conditioning
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • Little quantity for the price
  • Best Volumizing

    essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes Smudge-proof, Volumizing & Defining Mascara

    essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes Smudge-proof, Volumizing & Defining Mascara
  • You must add this PandaEyes Mascara from Essence Cosmetics to your makeup arsenal if you want to end your struggle of getting panda eyes every time you wear mascara. Its tubing formula forms a film over each lash to add extreme definition that still looks natural, making it the best mascara for deep set eyes. On top of that, it neither smudges nor flakes and can last all day long without any difficulties. We determined through our tests that it lengthens lashes but may not be able to hold the curl for long.

    Pros
    • Lightweight formula
    • Feels comfortable
    • Waterproof formula
    • Doesn’t clump
    • Comes off easily
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • May not add much volume
  • Best Splurge

    Lash Therapy Australia Growth Serum Mascara

    Lash Therapy Australia Growth Serum Mascara
  • Avoid getting mascara on eyelids with the powerful and long-lasting formula of the Lash Therapy Australia Growth Serum Mascara. From its cute packaging to its performance, everything about this mascara screams perfection. It comes with a uniquely shaped brush applicator and a flexible wand, which can be called one of the best in the industry. It grabs onto even the smallest of lash hair and follows the curve of the eye shape with ease. Apart from giving you the most gorgeous lashes ever, it also helps enhance their overall health and appearance, all thanks to its eyelash growth serum-infused formula.

    Pros
    • Easy to use
    • Water-resistant formula
    • Doesn’t clump or smudge
    • Wand reaches corner of the eyes with ease
    • Feels lightweight
    • Can curl lashes
    • Can curl lashes
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best for Mature Eyes

    Maybelline New York the Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara

    Maybelline New York the Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara
  • Let your search for the best mascara for mature hooded eyes end here with this Maybelline New York Colossal Mascara. It is a cult favorite and one of the best drugstore products when it comes to eye makeup, especially for hooded eyes. You won’t have to worry about any smudged mascara in your upper eyelids with this one. Thanks to twice the amount of collagen in its formula, this mascara can last all day without clumping. It goes on to add incredible volume to your lashes and is the ideal fit for those who love a bold and dramatic eye look. Our analysis of this product revealed that it dries quickly and doesn't budge, which gives no room for errors.

    Pros
    • Highly pigmented
    • Gives even coverage in one stroke
    • Buildable formula
    • Lengthens lashes
    • Ophthalmologist tested
    • Suitable for contact lens wearers
    • Budget-friendly
    Cons
    • May flake a little
  • Best for Fine Lashes

    BOOM! Bright Mascara

    BOOM! Bright Mascara
  • Specifically formulated for aging skin, this is the must-have mascara for older hooded eyes. It has a unique water-based formula infused with key ingredients like regenerative sugarcane polymer, carnauba wax, glycerin, jojoba oil, aloe vera extracts, and tapioca starch. It not only lengthens and defines the lashes but also conditions them, which eventually enhances their overall health. Even though it is not waterproof, it stays all day without smudging. As per our expertise, its bright and black color is universally flattering but it looks especially good with silver and gray hair.

    Pros
    • Non-drying
    • Buildable finish
    • Tapered brush applicator
    • Adds incredible definition
    • Ideal for short and fine lashes
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Cruelty-free
    • Eco-friendly, recyclable tube
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Vegan Formula

    Gaya Wonders Mascara

    Gaya Wonders Mascara
  • Lengthen, thicken, and volumize your lashes with the luxe and long-lasting formula of the Gaya Wonders Mascara without going down in tears. It is hypoallergenic and ophthalmologically tested, which makes it the perfect partner for sensitive eyes. You can even call it the best mascara for oily hooded eyes as it won't budge or smudge, come what may. It has a buildable soft finish that can take your lashes from natural and subtle to bold and dramatic in a few strokes without feeling heavy or uncomfortable. After conducting experiments with it, we found that it won't make your eyes water.

    Pros
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Gives natural finish
    • Lasts long
    • Doesn’t clump
    • Soft finish
    • Best for oily eyelids
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not easy to remove
  • Best in Budget

    Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara

    Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara
  • Revolutionize your eyes with this Rimmel London Mascara, a must-have if you are a fan of the wide-eyed gaze. Thanks to its bold, bright, and beautifully black finish, you don't have to wear false lashes anymore. This mascara for hooded eyelids is just so good that it will add incredible length and definition to your lashes without causing any clumps. Often recommended by makeup artists, this mascara fans out each lash to create a fuller look and volumized lashes like never before. Overall, it is the best mascara for older thin lashes. Our investigation demonstrated that it comes with an hourglass-shaped brush, which makes all the difference. You may not even need a lash curler with this one.

    Pros
    • Makes lashes super long
    • Intensely pigmented
    • Little goes a long way
    • Creamy formula
    • Lightweight
    • Doesn’t smudge
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Some may find the brush tricky to use
    • May clump when used in excess
  • Best Creamy Formula

    Boobeen Intense Mascara

    Boobeen Intense Mascara
  • Move on from boring blacks and browns and transform your eye makeup game with the Boobeen colored mascara for hooded eyes. It does the usual that mascara does—lengthens, thickens, and volumizes lashes. But, it also takes it to the next level with its intensely pigmented formula. Available in bright and bold shades, including neon green, purple, gold, silver, blue, and the basic black, this lengthening mascara is a must-have for those who want their lashes to stand out quite literally. Through our practical knowledge, we suggest using its silky and creamy formula sparingly, to avoid clumping.

    Pros
    • Suitable for daily wear
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    • Easy to remove
    • Smudge-proof
    • Doesn’t clump
    • Good for gifting
    Cons
    • Color may not last long
  • Best Brush Applicator

    Revlon So Fierce! Eyes Wide Open Mascara

    Revlon So Fierce! Eyes Wide Open Mascara
  • The Revlon mascara for hooded eyes is one of its kind, thanks to its innovative Lash Lift formula that works throughout the day to give you the maximum lift and volume. It has a weightless texture that doesn't feel uncomfortable or heavy. Available in 3 non-waterproof and 1 waterproof versions, this mascara with its hemp seed oil-infused formula keeps your lashes long, lifted, and luscious throughout the day, making your eyes look more awake. Our research indicates that its curvaceous brush applicator coats even the smallest of lash hair to create a fuller and voluminous look whether you choose the waterproof mascara or not.

    Pros
    • Works well
    • Doesn’t clump
    • Long-lasting
    • Easy to remove
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Smudge-proof
    • Makes eyes pop
    Cons
    • May flake a little
  • liver Professional Long Volume 4D Mascara

    liver Professional Long Volume 4D Mascara
  • Get longer, thicker, and more voluminous lashes like you have never had before with the intensely pigmented 4D formula of this Aliver Professional Mascara. This is the best mascara for hooded eyes, especially if you have short and fine lashes. Formulated with silk fibers, it coats every single lash to make them more fuller yet incredibly natural. Our team discovered through using this product that it neither flakes nor clumps and stays put for a long time. 

    Pros
    • Intense pigmentation
    • Non-drying formula
    • Water-resistant
    • Adds more definition to lashes
    • Good for daily use
    Cons
    • Pricey

    How To Choose the Best Mascara for Hooded Eyes?

    Choosing the best mascara is a huge challenge in itself, but trying to find the best mascara for hooded eyes on top of that? That's an even bigger challenge. But, don't get disheartened just yet because we have got your backs (or your hooded lids in this case). With the help of our detailed guide, you will be able to find your ideal mascara in no time! Here is a list of some factors that you must consider before you visit Sephora for your next mascara purchase:

    Ingredients

    Read the product label carefully and make sure there are no ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions to your eyes. Look for ingredients like vitamin E, biotin, argan oil, silica, beeswax, and castor oil, to name a few. Silica and wax help maintain the curl of the lashes, while the natural ingredients boost lash health. 

    Formula

    Opt for a polymer-based formula as they help create a film around your lashes, enhancing their length and volume. It helps avoid flaking or smudging. Moreover, you must look for oil-free and ophthalmologist-tested formulas, especially if you have sensitive eyes.

    Application

    The mascara must be easy to apply and take off. Its wand applicator must have an easy-to-maneuver design that can go along the curve of your lashes and enhance it even more without poking you in the eyes. It must give you a nicely even finish. You must look for a fine-bristled brush applicator to achieve a clump-free finish.

    Pigmentation

    Choose a mascara with intense pigmentation, no matter which color you go for. Highly intense pigmentation will ensure your lashes look bold, more defined, and truly stand out. This will bring the focus from your hooded eye area to your gorgeous lashes and create a beautifully balanced look.

    Staying Power

    You must opt for a long-lasting mascara. It should have a long staying power so that you don't have to worry about constant touch-ups. That's why you must purchase mascara from reputed brands.

    Other Features

    There are some more important features that you must look for when buying mascara for hooded eyes. You must look for qualities like smudge-proof, transferproof, and waterproof formulas. Moreover, a mascara with both lengthening and volumizing properties is your best bet.

    Customer Reviews

    Read various customer reviews and feedback on various online shopping platforms and makeup blogs to get to know more about the performance of the mascaras of your liking. Getting to know the feedback from people with similar concerns as yours can help you make an informed choice.

    Finding the perfect eye makeup products for hooded eyes has been a challenge. However, one thing is for sure—if you can get your hands on the best mascaras for hooded eyes, you can instantly transform your eye makeup game. These mascaras are ideal for hooded eyes as they have a long-lasting formula that won't budge or smudge. They are transferproof and would stay on your lashes instead of painting your brow bone and eyelids a messy black. You can intensify the length and volume of your lashes with these specialized mascaras and go about your day worry-free. Take any pick from our recommendations and get ready for intense and dramatic eyes like never before!

    FAQ's

    Does mascara look good on hooded eyes?
    Yes, mascara looks good on hooded eyes. It helps reduce the appearance of droopiness which is often a common characteristic of hooded eyes.
    What mascara won't smudge on hooded eyes?
    The Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Mascara won’t smudge on hooded eyes.
    How do you keep mascara on hooded eyes?
    You can get your mascara to stay put by using an eyelid primer and a smudge-proof formula.
    What type of mascara looks best on hooded eyes?
    Volumizing mascaras look best on hooded eyes as they lengthen and add volume to the eyelashes.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani, the author, loves everything about makeup. She is a big fan of eye makeup, and mascara is her go-to product for adding instant drama to her eyes on the go. She is well aware of the challenges faced by hooded eyes when it comes to finding the right kind of eye makeup products, particularly mascara. She made it her mission to find the right mascaras for hooded eyes that don't budge or smudge. She has curated this selection with her top recommendations, which are long-lasting and smudge-proof while providing volume and definition to lashes. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More