How To: Fashion Magazine Beauty Panel Tips for Applying False Lashes

This week, our Fashion Magazine Beauty Panel was to show readers how to put on false eyelashes. For my response, keep reading. To check out the other panelists and see how they responded click here.

False lashes can be a great addition to any makeup look whether you use them to enhance your own lashes or to use them to create a glamorous look for that special event. Some of my all-time favourites are by Ardell (especially the Fashion Lashes), Red Cherry & MACNowadays, there are so many lashes available that choosing between them can be intimidating. Lash styles range from super natural to very dramatic and there are lash strips (full or halves) and flares (individual lashes) available. Since everyone’s eye shape is different, and depending on the look you are going for, choosing the right shape, length and style is an important consideration. 

Here are my tips to applying false lashes like a pro. First, after applying all of my makeup (except mascara) I curl my natural lashes. 

Step 1: Open and Check Fit

To remove your lashes from their package, gently peel the lashes off of the tray using your fingers or a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to damage the delicate band. Lashes come in all sorts of sizes, so to ensure proper fit and get an idea of placement, lay the lash on top of your natural lash. If it extends longer than your eyelid, you may need to trim off any excess from the sides.

TIP: Never trim the actual length of the lashes. It makes the tips look blunt and very unnatural. Also, with some styles, make sure that you recognize the difference between left and right lashes, making sure to apply the shorter ends towards the inner corner of the eyes.

Step 2: Apply Adhesive to the Lash Strip
There are a number of ways that you can do this. Some like to squeeze a line of adhesive directly onto the lash strip. Others like to apply the adhesive to a cotton swab or toothpick and glide it across the lash strip. I prefer to apply a bit of the adhesive to the back of my non-dominant hand and working quickly, gently run the outer seam of the strip along the glue until the entire strip has a thin layer of adhesive on it. I then go back and apply a bit more adhesive to both ends.


Step 3: Wait
This is where many people make a critical mistake. It is so important that you allow the glue to “get tacky,” so make sure you wait 45 seconds or so before applying your lashes. While I wait for the glue to set, I like holding the lash strip in a slightly bent position. (i.e. U shape) This helps keep both of the ends from coming up on either side when the lashes are applied and makes the strip less stiff to work with, helping it mold better to a curved eye.


Step 4: Apply and Secure Lash Strip in Place
Tilting my head back slightly, I place the lash as close to my natural lash line as possible, making sure that they are lined up with the start of my natural lashes. Do not place false lashes too close to your tear duct—there should be a space there. I use a pair of tweezers to securely hold onto the lash strip in the centre, close to the band but not touching the glue. I find that tweezers provide more precision as opposed to using my fingers. I lay down the end first, then the middle and lastly the front. I then gently press along the lash band to secure it all in place. While the glue is still tacky, you can make any adjustments quickly if necessary.
TIP: When applying the strip, bring it down from above rather than coming in from the front.

Step 5: Let Dry and Touch Up Liner/Mascara
Once you’ve placed both lash strips, wait patiently for 1-2 minutes while the adhesive dries completely. I usually go back and touch up my eye liner at this point. I use liquid or gel liner to help conceal any visible seams and fill in any gaps. I then apply my mascara to mesh my lashes and the falsies together.
TIPS: Applying mascara to just the root allows false lashes to keep their feathery look. And, if you plan to reuse your lashes, apply mascara to your natural lashes only.
Products used: Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer in “Beige,” DIOR Skin Nude BB Creme in “002,” MAC Paint Pot in “Half-Wild,” MAC Eyeshadow in “Purple Haze,” “Nocturnelle,” “Scene” and “Carbon,” Physician’s Formula Custom Eye Enhancing Gel/Cream Liner, Maybelline The Rocket Volum’ Express, Essence Lipstick in #52 “In The Nude”, MAC False Lashes in “#46,” Ardell Professional Waterproof Lash Grip Eyelash Adhesive in “Dark”.