How to master the cat-eye and eyeshadow application for hooded eyes and aging skin.
Are you still pulling your eyelid taut to draw your eyeliner? Stop! 🛑
As we navigate our 40s and beyond, our skin changes. Traditional makeup techniques, like the ones we used in our 20s, simply don’t serve soft, wrinkly skin or loss of elasticity. When you have hooded eyes or droopy eyelids, stretching the skin to apply liner often leads to a “hooked” or downward-sloping wing the second you let go. It looks unintentional, emphasizes texture, and actually ages the face.
In my latest YouTube video, I’m tackling this specific challenge with a technique that moves beyond the trends and focuses on creating a polished, intentional look. This is my signature “No Skin Pull” Cat-Eye—and it’s designed to provide an instant, sophisticated eye lift.
Why Your Old Cat-Eye Method Isn’t Working
Many of us face the same makeup hurdles once we hit 40:
- Creases on the Eyelid: Heavy product build-up creates unwanted texture.
- Translucent Skin: Veins and discoloration are more visible on the delicate lid.
- Loss of Lid Space: When your eyes are at rest, the hood covers the definition you just applied.
The secret isn’t more makeup—it’s less product, higher quality, and better placement.
Key Takeaways from the “No-Pull” Technique:
- Map with Eyes at Rest: Learn how to create your wing with your eyes looking straight ahead, so you can work around the natural fold of the lid.
- The Soft Brown Shift: Harsh black liner can look severe. Swapping to softer brown tones creates a more youthful warmth and sophisticated definition.
- Eyeshadow as Liner: Using a high-quality, pigment-rich shadow with a fine angled brush creates a diffused wing that won’t settle into fine lines.
- Neutralize the Canvas: We’re starting by neutralizing veins and creating a smooth, crease-free base for hooded lids.
Watch the Full Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

Shop the Curated Hooded Eye Collection
Ready to recreate this look? I have hand-selected a curated list of products that I demonstrate in the video. These are my go-to recommendations for long lasting performance on grown-up skin:

Shop the Entire Collection Here

Join the Chicquette Community
Finding that in-between style over 40 shouldn’t be complicated. Let’s focus on intentional beauty that makes you feel confident and polished in no time.
What is your biggest makeup hurdle right now? Share in the comments below! 👇
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Chicquette YouTube Channel for weekly advice on navigating style after 40 beyond the trends.



