'I'm an over-50s beauty writer. Here are the best mascaras for hooded eyes.'

Image: Supplied.

I'm normally really underwhelmed by tubing mascaras, mainly because they just don't give... enough. Not enough volume. Not enough length. Which are both important with hooded eyes. 

However, the Holme Beauty Loyal Lash Mascara gives more than other tubing mascaras I've tried — and still looks pretty natural. It volumises, curls, is transfer-proof and doesn't break down during the day, which is the one thing I dislike about tubing mascaras. Because I don’t want little flakes appearing under my eyes before the end of the day. 

This delivers. If you want a bit more in the length and volume department, like I do, then you can pair it with their Loving Lash Primer, $38.

Image: Supplied.

It seems like a weird secret that the Maybelline Sky High is actually a tubing mascara. Did you know? Take a look at the ingredients. There’s a polymer in there (the ingredient that wraps around your lashes so they don't smudge or flake). 

This mascara gives you a stupid amount of length and adds a bit of volume as well. The design of the brush is super flexible and aids in the application of getting into the root of your lash. It's a super lightweight formula and is known to be one of the best performers on the market.

I have this in both black shades as well as the newer brown shade because it's that good! If I am going to use mascara on my lower lashes, this is the only one I use.

Image: Supplied.

This has kept itself permanently in my makeup bag since I discovered it years ago. Big, juicy, fat lashes are what you get from this aptly named Lash Paradise. It's the one I have recommended over the years for both hooded and non-hooded friends who have lamented about their sparse, spindly lashes. 

It's a whipped, volumising formula infused with castor oil that leaves your lashes soft and non-clumpy. Speaking of L'Oréal mascaras, the brand has recently come into the game with a newbie that might take the prize for the best new affordable mascara to market...

Image: Supplied.

 The magic in this one is in the multi-level brush, which allows you to get right into the inner corner of your eyes without slapping yourself on the lid. The unique brush also allows you to really fan out the outer corner lashes, creating wide-awake, doe eyes. 

It's also clump-resistant so your lashes don't look too heavy. When I tried this, I didn't expect to love it as much as I did and this one sits permanently on my makeup table. This is the first mascara in a long time that I have instantly loved.

Image: Supplied.

Lastly, we have another new local brand released late last year. And if you suffer from dry eyes, sensitive eyes or are experiencing signs of ageing around your eyes, then this is what you've been looking for.

Created by leading Australian ophthalmologist Dr Jacqueline Beltz, Okkiyo Prioriteyes Mascara is tailored for sensitive eyes in mind, and designed to feel comfortable and irritation-free. 

I suffer from extremely dry eyes and let me tell you, the sensation of having grit in your eyes or the associated itch is a real struggle. What I love about this is that it performs like the highest of luxury brands and it looks damn good. The packaging is square which will ensure it doesn’t roll off your table either (which can be more annoying than you think!).