How to choose a mascara: hooded, rounded, and more tutorials

Beautiful lashes never go out of style. Whether you’re aiming for a natural, barely-there effect or you want to make a statement at a special occasion, choosing the right mascara is a must – but have you ever considered how to make the most of your natural eye shape?

We’re all beautifully different – and that goes for our eyes, too. With a few tips and tricks and some tactically-applied makeup, you can easily accentuate your eyes.

To start, take a close look at your eyes, considering the lid shape, size, angle and position in relation to the rest of your face, then find your perfect match below.

1. Round eyes

Round eyes are typically large, with the white of the eye visible above or below the iris, and are proportionally equal in width and height.

For maximum impact, choose a mascara that adds plenty of volume, and focus application on the outer corners to create a fluttery, lifted look.

Use No7 Stay Perfect Ultra to really pump up the volume for up to 24 hours. The innovative technology wraps polymers around each individual lash, creating buildable ‘tubes’ that can be layered up and out.

2. Almond eyes

Almond eyes are extremely versatile and able to pull off most looks – lucky you! They are typically oval in shape with slightly upturned outer corners, and no white visible above or below the iris.

Apply your mascara evenly along the lash line for a classic look, or use the wand to pull the lashes out at the corner to elongate your eye shape even further. This can be especially impactful when paired with winged liner for a cat-eye effect.

No7 The Full 360 Mascara is a great all-rounder, offering thicker, longer, more defined lashes in just a few sweeps. The curved brush grips each individual eyelash, while the formula features volumizing spheres that effortlessly layer on top of each other with every coat.

3. Small eyes

You might think that it’s harder to make a statement if your eyes are on the smaller side, but that’s not true! The right mascara can really add oomph.

Opt for formulas that focus on lift and curl to really open up smaller eyes. No7 Dramatic Lift is ideal, formulated with flexible polymers and keratin to boost lashes from root to tip. The specially designed curved styling brush ensures that no lash is left behind, adding weightless volume for a truly wide-awake look.

4. Hooded eyes

Hooded eyes have an extra fold of skin that hides some of your lid when your eyes are open. If you typically can’t see much of your eyeshadow when your eyes are open, chances are you have this eye shape. Mascara can really help to add definition to the lash line for eyes that really ‘pop’.

To avoid smudging, choose a long-lasting, waterproof formula such as No7 Extreme Length Waterproof Mascara. The specially designed wand features flexible, slim rubber bristles, making it easy to reach right into the corners of eyes and coat even the tiniest of lashes.

5. Deep-set eyes

Deep-set eyes sit further back underneath the brow bone – you might be able to spot this feature when you turn your head to the side.

Dial up the drama by focusing on curl and length, helping to open up the eye area and give the appearance of bringing the eyes forward. Use No7 Lash Impact Ultra Mascara to create an instant false lash effect, amplifying your eyelashes for real impact.

Extra tips for beautiful eyes…

Prime your eyes

It’s an easy step to overlook, but priming your eyes is the secret to a long-lasting look. A lash primer can also help to enhance the intensity of your eye products.

Use No7 Lash Impact™ Lash Primer before you apply your mascara for a smoother application and to give the volume and length a boost. If wanted, apply again as a top coat to make your mascara water-resistant and smudge-proof.

Draw a line

Whether you like it winged, smokey or adding a bright pop of colour, eyeliner can really make your look stand out.

Opt for No7’s Stay Perfect Amazing Eyes Pencil smudged out with an eyeliner brush to create a soft, smokey look, or go for Stay Precise Liquid Liner to create an intense line of colour.

Add some sparkle

Matte and neutral colour palettes are perfect for daytime wear, but if you’re after something more eye catching for an evening event, it’s time to work some metallic shades into your repertoire.

Experiment with adding a lighter shimmer or sheen to your lid, the inside corner of your eye, or just below your brow to open up the whole eye area. Not sure which colours to go for? No7’s Eyeshadow Trios are a great place to start.

Brush up

When it comes to eyes, application is everything – and using the right tools can make all the difference.

First on our list? A No7 Eye Colour Brush. This smooth multitasker is great for applying your Eye Primer, laying down your base colours and cleaning up any mistakes. Next, take an Eye Contour Brush for contouring and blending powder eyeshadows. Use an Eyeliner Brush to precisely apply gel, liquid or cream eyeliners. If you’re after a smudging tool for that classic smokey effect, our short-haired Smokey Eye Brush or Smudger Brush is a must. Finally, don’t forget our Lash Comb & Brow Brush – perfect for separating and defining lashes and brushing unruly brows perfectly into place.