Cut Crease Eyeshadow Tips For Hooded Eyes – Step-by-Step Guide

Mastering the cut crease eyeshadow look for hooded eyes might seem intimidating, but it’s completely achievable with the right techniques and tools. When done correctly, a cut crease can transform hooded lids by making your eyes appear more open, lifted, and defined. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to improve your skills, this guide will walk you through each step with expert precision.

Why Cut Crease Works Wonders for Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that droops over the crease, often hiding eyeshadow and making typical makeup look less visible. A cut crease bypasses this by redefining the crease above your natural fold, enhancing your eye shape, and maximizing lid space.

When done right, it creates:

• The illusion of a higher, more open eyelid
• More defined eye contour
• A dramatic, glam effect perfect for photos or special occasions

Essential Tools to Get You Started

Before you start, gather the following to ensure precision and ease:

• Eyeshadow primer or concealer (Buy Here)
• Flat shader brush & angled eyeliner brush (Buy Here)
• Fluffy blending brush (Buy Here)
• Matte & shimmer eyeshadow shades (2–3 minimum) (Buy Here)
• Thick creamy concealer (Buy Here)
• Optional: gel eyeliner and false lashes (Buy Here)

Step 1: Prime and Prep the Lids

To get a smooth and even base:

• Apply a light eyeshadow primer or concealer across the lid up to the brow bone.
• Blend well and set lightly with translucent powder if needed.

This helps eyeshadow grip better and stay crease-free, which is especially important for hooded lids.

Step 2: Create the Illusion of a New Crease

This is the most important step for hooded eyes.

• Open your eyes naturally and look straight into a mirror.
• Use a cool or neutral matte transition shade slightly above your natural crease.
• Blend it in with a fluffy brush to form a soft contour.

Expert Tip: Placing the shadow above your fold ensures it remains visible even when your eyes are open.

Step 3: Deepen and Define

Time to add drama.

• Choose a deeper matte shade (e.g., plum, charcoal, or deep brown) and apply it directly into the newly defined crease.
• Blend outward in small circular motions.
• Focus on the darkest point at the outer V for a lifted effect.

This step adds depth and sets the stage for a clean contrast.

Step 4: Cut the Crease with Concealer

Here’s where the magic happens:

• Take a small, flat brush and a creamy concealer.
• With your eye relaxed, apply the concealer from the inner corner and trace just above your natural crease, following the curved shape.
• Stop at about two-thirds of the lid or go full cut crease, depending on your desired look.

Pro Tip: Dot concealer on the center of your lid and look up—this leaves a perfect guide for your ideal crease height.

Step 5: Pack on the Lid Color

Once your cut is defined:

• Apply a shimmer, metallic, or satin eyeshadow over the concealer using a flat brush.
• Press the pigment onto the lid instead of swiping to keep edges sharp.
• For an ombré effect, blend a medium tone into the shimmer near the outer edge.

This brightens the lid and contrasts beautifully with the defined crease.

Step 6: Finish with Eyeliner and Lashes

Winged liner can elevate your cut crease look, but keep it sleek:

• Use a gel or liquid liner to draw a thin wing, starting small at the inner corner and extending upward.
• Keep the wing angled towards the tail of your brow for a lifting illusion.
• Add mascara or natural lashes to open up the eyes further.

Avoid thick liner, which can overpower the crease and shorten visible lid space.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cutting too low: For hooded eyes, always cut above the natural crease.
• Using shimmers in the crease: Keep crease shades matte for clean definition.
• Neglecting to blend: Sharp doesn’t mean harsh—blend transition shades seamlessly.

Final Thoughts: Practice Makes Perfect

Cut crease eyeshadow on hooded eyes might take a few tries to perfect, but once you get the hang of placement and blending, it’s a game-changing technique. Whether you go for subtle elegance or bold drama, the cut crease will always give your eyes definition and depth.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, shimmer placements, or crease height. Over time, you’ll discover what flatters your unique eye shape best—and turn every eye look into a masterpiece.