Applying eyelash extensions on hooded eyes can be challenging, especially for beginner lash stylists. The good news is that with the right techniques, you can achieve stunning results. In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the perfect styling method based on different types of hooded eyelids.

In this article you will learn:

➤ How eyelash extensions can improve the appearance of the eye
➤ What a hooded eyelid is
➤ The most common causes of eyelid hooding
➤ Which lash styles work best for different types of hooded eyes

How Eyelash Extensions Help

Eyelash extensions do much more than just add length and volume. A properly designed lash style can correct various eye imperfections, such as:

• asymmetry

• gaps in the lash line

• short or thin natural lashes

• hooded eyelids

What Is a Hooded Eyelid?

A hooded eyelid occurs when the skin fold under the brow bone hangs over the mobile eyelid when the eye is open. This condition is known as ptosis. Depending on the cause and severity, it may be purely aesthetic or may significantly affect vision, in which case medical intervention may be necessary.

Why Does the Eyelid Become Hooded?

Although ptosis is often associated with aging and loss of skin elasticity, it can also develop for several other reasons:

Congenital Ptosis

The muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid is underdeveloped or weakened from birth.

Mechanical Injuries

Blows or trauma around the eye may damage the levator muscle.

Long-term Contact Lens Use

Wearing contact lenses for many years can contribute to gradual weakening of the eyelid.

Nerve Damage or Muscle Disorders

Certain conditions affect the muscles or nerves responsible for eyelid function.

Surgical Procedures

Some surgeries performed around the eyes may result in eyelid drooping.

Hooded Eyes and Eyelash Extensions

When done correctly, eyelash extensions can visually lift the eyelid, open the eye and give the entire face a more refreshed appearance. The key is choosing the right lengths, curls and mapping approach.

1. Hooded Eye in the Outer Corner

This is one of the most common types of hooded eyelids. The outer corner appears to be pulled downward. To lift it, the ideal lash styles include:

Cat Eye
Foxy Eye
Squirrel Effect

Application Tips:

• Avoid overly long lashes — they may touch the brow bone and feel uncomfortable.

• Mix curls — use a softer curl (e.g., C) in the middle of the eye and transition into stronger curls (CC or L) toward the outer corner.

Styling: Ilona Karwat – Noble Lashes Instructor

2. “Mongolian Fold” – Hooding Along the Entire Eyelid

In this case, the skin fold slightly covers the inner corner and elongates the eyelid, giving the eye a subtly slanted, almond shape.

What to recommend?

• If the client wants to open and round the eye — choose Doll Eye.

• If she prefers to enhance the natural almond shape while still hiding the hood — the Squirrel Effect is a great choice.

Recommended curls:

B, C and L, which is designed especially for hooded eyes.

Check out L Lashes – created especially for hooded eyelids: L lashes

3. Hooded Eyelid + Drooping Outer Corner

When both the eyelid and outer corner droop, the best approach is combining techniques:

• Doll Eye to cover the fold and open the center of the eye

• Eyeliner Effect to visibly lift the outer corner

This combination creates the most balanced and flattering result.

Summary

A hooded eyelid does not limit your styling possibilities — quite the opposite. With the right mapping, curls and lash lengths, you can beautifully enhance the client’s natural eye shape and visually lift the eyelid. Properly chosen extensions can dramatically improve symmetry, proportions and overall eye appearance.