12 Tips to Make Applying False Eyelashes A Cinch

I’ve always had pretty decent eyelashes, not mega long or thick, but satisfactory. Only now they seem to be getting lighter and disappearing. Can you relate?

It’s not really a big deal on a daily basis ( I just whisk on a little eyelash primer before I add mascara and that seems to help), but if I’m getting my photo taken it can end up looking like my lids are bald!  When I shoot photos for the blog, I’ve found that a pair of natural strip lashes do the trick.

The only problem…putting on those darn fake lashes has to be the most stressful thing there is. Between trying not to get the glue all over my lid and fiddling to get the lashes to line up and be even with each other, and struggling to see what I’m even doing because my eyes aren’t what they used to be, I somehow manage to pull it off.

The more I practice, the easier it gets. Plus it helps that I’ve recently picked up a few great tips from my friend, professional make-up artist Sana Young @sanayoungmua, that makes putting on fake eyelashes so much easier. Here’s what I’ve learned. When applying fake lashes…..

1. Keep Your Eye Shape in Mind

If your eyelids are on the smaller side and there isn’t much space between your lash line and brow, for example, go for shorter lashes. Long ones will touch your brow and make it look like you’re sweeping off crumbs or something every time you blink.

2. Strip Lashes vs. Individual Lashes

I always like to use a strip, it’s easier to apply, and it offers an evenly distributed lash. My favorite drugstore brand of lashes is Ardell. If you like a dramatic lash, or if you have larger eyes and can carry this look, my favorite is the Ardell Demi Wispies. This is a full feathery lash, and it can be used day or night. If you have smaller eyes or don’t want the drama, maybe you are new to mascara and lashes, then I would recommend 110, by Ardell. It’s a gentle yet beautiful look.

3. Start Slowly

Generally speaking, the thicker the lashes, the more difficult they are to apply. If you’re a newbie, start with a thinner set with more flexible backing. Also, always try to use a lash strip with a very thin band, this helps the lashes look natural.

4. Go for Natural Fibers

False eyelashes made from natural fibers like human hair are easier to apply than synthetic false eyelashes.

5. Eye makeup First

I like to apply all eye makeup and then apply the lashes. I do this because I don’t want to tamper too much with the lashes once they are applied. Liner is applied after the lashes are applied, this helps finish the edge that connects the lashes to your natural lash line.

6. Trim Excess Length

Once eye shadow is applied, and I’ve chosen my lashes I trim them. Trimming lashes to the length of your lash line. This can be measured by holding the lashes without glue over your own eyelashes, starting at close to, but not immediately at, the inner corner of your eye (basically where your own eyelashes begin).  I typically trim from the outer corner. Once I know how much I want to cut off, I hold the lash strip over a counter or my workspace and trim the outer end.

7. Soften the False Lashes Up Before Applying

Once you’ve removed the lashes from their packaging, gently bend them for a bit to soften them up and make them easier to apply.

8. Choose the Right Glue

Your false eyelashes will likely come with their own tube of glue, but I always use Duo glue. This is a great product that over my years of experience has never had anyone react to it, and it holds the lashes on for hours and hours even in the rain. It’s good for sensitive skin and peels off easily when soaked for a bit with eye make-up remover.

9. Let the Glue Get a Little Sticky Before Applying

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to apply false eyelashes immediately after applying the glue to them. Fresh glue is slippery, and the eyelash will just slide around and not stay put. Wait for a little while until the glue is beginning to get tacky – 30 to 60 seconds should do – before applying.

10. Lock in the Lashes

Using my Duo glue, I apply a small amount to the strip itself and drag it along the edge, you want an even distribution of glue. I then hold the strip with my tweezers, and with one fingertip I press the lash strip against the outer part of my lash line and across. A little tip- once it’s sticking a bit, using my fingers I slide the lash strip right up to my lash line and press, you will feel it when it gets there, it will feel locked in. Then I repeat on the other side.

11. Angle Up for a Wide-Eyed Look

As the glue begins to dry and changes from white to clear, use your finger to gently adjust the angle of the lashes. You don’t want them to droop down. Instead, push the ends up a little for a lift.

12. Use Mascara to Blend

Apply a coat or two of your favorite mascara to your lashes. I apply mascara to the entire lash. This helps my lashes connect to the fake lashes, and you’re done!

Can You   Reuse Lashes?

You can reuse lashes, depending on how you took care of them will be the difference between one extra use or 3. To help preserve them, remove them gently and don’t use any oils. This will change the shape. Great high-end lashes are Huda Lashes, and these can be purchased at Sephora.