False lashes can instantly elevate your look, adding volume, length, and drama to your eyes. Whether you’re prepping for a special occasion or just want to amp up your everyday makeup routine, mastering the art of applying false lashes can make a significant difference in your overall appearance. While it may seem intimidating at first, with a little practice and the right technique, you can achieve a flawless false lash application. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly apply false lashes for a beautiful, eye-catching result.

1. Choose the Right Lashes for Your Look

Before applying false lashes, it’s important to choose the right pair that suits your eye shape and desired look. There are various types of lashes available, from natural-looking options to dramatic, voluminous styles.

• Natural Lashes: If you want a more subtle look, opt for lashes that are shorter and have a soft, wispy appearance. These are great for everyday wear.
• Dramatic Lashes: For a bold, eye-catching look, go for longer, thicker lashes with more volume. These are perfect for special occasions or nights out.
• Individual Lashes vs. Strip Lashes: Strip lashes provide a more dramatic effect, while individual lashes allow you to customize the look by placing them where needed for a more natural appearance.

2. Gather Your Tools

To ensure a smooth and easy false lash application, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready.

• False Lashes: Choose your preferred style of lashes.
• Eyelash Glue: Look for a strong, long-lasting glue that dries clear. Some glues also come in black, which can blend seamlessly with your eyeliner.
• Tweezers: These will help you handle the lashes precisely.
• Scissors: You may need to trim the lashes to fit your eye shape.
• Eyeliner: A bit of eyeliner will help the false lashes blend into your natural lashes.
• Mascara: To blend your natural lashes with the falsies.

3. Measure and Trim the Lashes

False lashes come in standard sizes, so it’s important to check if they fit your eyes before applying them. A lash that’s too long will be uncomfortable and may not sit properly on your lash line.

• How to Measure: Place the false lashes along your natural lash line, without glue, to see if they fit. If they extend past the outer corner of your eye, they need to be trimmed.
• Trimming the Lashes: Using a pair of scissors, trim the lashes from the outer edge (not the inner corner) to ensure they maintain a natural shape. Trim small amounts at a time, so you don’t cut too much.

4. Apply Eyeliner

Applying eyeliner before putting on false lashes helps define your eyes and creates a seamless look where the lashes blend into your lash line.

• Line Your Lash Line: Use a liquid or gel eyeliner to create a thin line along your upper lash line. If you’re using strip lashes, a thicker line will help hide the band. If you’re going for a more natural look, a thin, subtle line works best.
• Winged Liner (Optional): If you’re creating a winged eyeliner look, do it before applying the lashes. This helps the lash band blend with the eyeliner.

5. Apply Lash Glue

Now it’s time to apply the glue. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much glue can cause a mess and make the lashes harder to apply.

• How to Apply Glue: Squeeze a small amount of lash glue onto the back of your hand or a clean surface. Using a small applicator (often the tip of the glue tube or a toothpick), apply a thin layer of glue along the band of the lashes. Make sure to cover the entire strip, especially the edges, for a secure hold.
• Wait for the Glue to Set: Allow the glue to sit for about 30 seconds to become tacky. This makes it easier to apply the lashes and prevents them from sliding around.

6. Apply the Lashes

Now it’s time for the most crucial step—applying the false lashes.

• Use Tweezers: Hold the false lashes with tweezers in the middle, and gently place the strip along your natural lash line. Start by placing the lash in the center of your lash line, then gently press the outer and inner corners into place. The lashes should sit as close to your natural lashes as possible, without touching your eyelid.
• Press to Secure: Once the lashes are in place, use your fingers or the back of the tweezers to gently press down along the band to ensure it sticks securely to your lash line.

7. Blend Your Natural Lashes with the Falsies

After applying the false lashes, you’ll want to blend your natural lashes with the falsies for a more seamless look.

• Mascara: Apply a light coat of mascara to both your natural lashes and the false lashes. This will help them fuse together, making the false lashes look more natural. Be careful not to apply too much mascara, as it can weigh down the lashes.
• Curl Your Lashes (Optional): If needed, you can use an eyelash curler to curl your natural lashes and blend them further with the false ones.

8. Clean Up the Edges

After the lashes are in place and you’ve blended them with mascara, check for any gaps between the falsies and your natural lashes. If there’s a noticeable line, you can use a small amount of eyeliner to fill it in and make everything look seamless.

• Fix Any Imperfections: If the lash glue is visible or the band is not perfectly blended, gently use eyeliner to camouflage it.

9. Remove the Lashes

At the end of the day, removing your false lashes properly is important to avoid damaging your natural lashes.

• How to Remove: Gently peel the false lashes off from the outer corner, taking care not to tug or pull on your natural lashes. You can use a makeup remover or oil-based cleanser to dissolve any remaining glue from the lash band.
• Clean Your Lashes: If you plan to reuse your lashes, carefully remove any leftover glue and store them in their original case to maintain their shape.

Conclusion

With the right technique and a little practice, applying false lashes can be an easy and rewarding way to enhance your eyes and create a dramatic look. Whether you’re looking for natural volume or bold, fluttery lashes, the key is to choose the right style, measure and trim them for your eye shape, and apply them carefully with the right tools and techniques. Once you’ve mastered the art of false lashes, you’ll be able to achieve a stunning eye look for any occasion.