How to apply fake eyelashes like a makeup professional

A bold red lip. A smoky eye. A full-flush blush. What do all these makeup classics have in common? They'd look even more dramatic with lush, fluttery eyelashes.

That’s where fake eyelashes come in. They can help achieve bigger, bolder and more versatile looks than mascara alone. The key is learning how to choose the best styles for one's features and understanding how to apply these lashes properly.

Below, learn about how to pick the right falsies, how to put them on and how to remove them safely. Plus, makeup professionals reveal their favorite products. Fake lashes are a great head start to a fabulous look.

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How to choose the right lashes

When determining which fake eyelashes to choose, consider eye shape, face shape, preferred look and preferred type of lash. 

"There are many different types of fake lashes," says Los Angeles-based celebrity makeup artist Priscilla Ono. These include individual hairs to fill the lash out and magnetic lashes for an easier on and off. "The type of lash someone chooses should depend on the style they want to achieve and the application process that works best for them."

Types of fake eyelashes include the following: 

• Strip lashes. These lashes are the most common and easiest to work with. They're also the most comparable to natural eyelashes because they include a full strip of falsies that spans the entire length of the eye line. "They really deliver that full, dramatic lash finish and come in a range of styles depending on how big someone wants to go," says Neil Scibelli, a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City.
• Eyelash extensions. If someone wants lashes that last several weeks, a professional in a salon can apply eyelash extensions by using semipermanent glue. “There are still some concerns around getting them, like natural lashes falling out and allergic reactions, so be aware of all options and address any concerns first,” Scibelli adds. 
• Individual clusters. “Clusters include around three to four individual lashes on one band, creating a cluster of lashes,” Scibelli says. “They are great for a natural look, but also really bulk up the lash line and add some dimension. They are also easy to apply.” 
• Individual lashes. As the name may suggest, individual lashes are single lashes that can be added in different places along the eye line. "Individuals are great for a natural look or for someone who may need to fill in sparse areas," says Scibelli. Just be aware that applying them requires some precision and can take a bit more time than other types.
• Magnetic lashes. Among the more recent lash innovations, magnetic falsies use a magnetic band at the base of the lash (instead of glue) to connect the lashes together. "They're a great option, especially if someone is allergic to traditional lash glue, but have a reputation for being less durable and less reliable," Scibelli says. "They can slip off and weigh down natural lashes."

Within each of these categories, there are also different colors, lengths, shapes and thicknesses. 

“If someone is new to false lashes, I would suggest starting with a natural-looking, lightweight pair and working their way into wearing bolder styles,” Scibelli says. 

For those with smaller eyelids or people who want to make their eyes appear larger, Scibelli recommends going for wispy styles that have space between the lashes. That way, the area above the eye isn't completely covered.

Fake lashes can also accentuate the eyes' existing shape. "They can seem to lift their eyes at the corners to create a more almond, cat-eye shape, or they can make their eyes appear rounder. Someone can also add clusters to the ends of their eyes for a more elongated look without having to wear a full strip," Scibelli notes.

How to apply fake lashes

For gorgeous, longer-lasting falsies, follow these steps: 

Step 1: Curl natural lashes 

"We always like to prep the eye and lashes first," Ono says. "Curl them, then do an sombra de ojos y delineador de ojos as someone normally would.” 

Step 2: Cut fake eyelashes to fit the eyes 

Remove the lashes from the package and hold them against the lash line without glue. "This way, someone can see where and how much they may need to cut off in order to have them fit their lashes," Scibelli says. "Then use a smaller-sized pair of scissors to remove the excess lashes. Once one lash is cut to size, lay the other pair on top and match it."

Step 3: Apply glue 

Not all falsies require glue. But if they do, apply the glue to the base of the fake eyelashes using the glue tube applicator or brush. (A cotton swab can also be used.)

"The best way to apply lash glue is to use a thin layer and make sure not to oversaturate the lash," Ono says. "A little goes a long way! Then let the glue dry slightly, so it's a bit tacky. If it's too wet, the lash will slide." Depending on the eye look desired, she says, use clear or black glue.

Tip: Try holding the fake lashes with pinzas while applying the glue for easier application. And if applying individuals or clusters, Scibelli recommends applying a dime-sized amount of glue onto a palette and dipping the base of the lash into it.

Step 4: Adhere the lash strip to the upper lash line 

"Center the lash over the eye and press the lash into the inner corner first," Ono says. "Then gently lay the strip across the entire lash line."

Step 5: Put on mascara 

Applying mascara is optional and can be done at a few different points in the application process. "It's really a preference," Scibelli says. "I like applying rímel after I’ve applied false lashes because it combs natural lashes right into the falsies.” 

Step 6: Apply eyeliner

“People can add liner over the lash strip if they want to conceal it better and add extra mascara for a more blended, bolder look,” Ono says. 

How to remove fake eyelashes 

When it comes to fake eyelashes, the removal technique used is just as important as the application process. Avoid damaging natural lashes or irritating the eyes. Don't pick at the fake eyelashes, and don't try to cut them off.

"One of the safest ways to get them off is to hold a warm, wet compress over the lashes to loosen up the glue," Scibelli says. "Then they should slide right off."

Best fake eyelashes 

Choosing the best falsies often comes down to personal preference. "Gathering inspiration from makeup artists' social pages is always helpful," Ono says. "Someone can see what different lashes look like on different models." Ono tends to recommend wispy, shorter lashes for a more natural look and voluminous lashes for a bolder, more glamorous look. "But a little trial and error is often the best way to go," she says.

There are many great drugstore options for fake eyelashes. 

Scibelli is a longtime fan of Ardell lashes and has been using them since the beginning of his career. "Ardell also makes individuals and clusters in various sizes as well as new active strip lashes, which are made to be extra durable for extra-long wear," he adds.

Scibelli also recommends KISS lashes. "They make a really beautiful range of lashes, and I especially like their strip lashes," he says. "They're extremely high quality and also have a range of sizes and styles that can fit all eye shapes."

Best eyelash glue

“My go-to for a long time has been the Duo adhesive glue (in the black tint)," Scibelli says. "I recently discovered Duo Active glue, which is a new favorite. It's a water-resistant, sweatproof formula that is perfect for long days because it truly doesn't budge."

Ono’s eyelash glue choice for strip lashes is KISS Lash Couture Strip lash adhesive in black or clear. Scibelli recommends it, too: "The KISS brush with clear lash adhesive is fantastic," he says. "And the glue is latex-free and super lightweight. It's really easy to work with."

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.