How to Apply False Lashes: A Beginner's Guide

Let’s talk about false eyelashes.

We all know the struggle of applying false lashes, which is we have created the ultimate beginner's guide. We run through the entire process step by step, breaking down all the components you need to create the perfect fluttery effect. In short though, we recommend allowing your favourite lash glue to go slightly tacky on the band and then applying with tweezers.

A top tip for finding the perfect lash for your eye shape is cutting the lashes down to size, this will help them fit snug on your lash line. Also be sure to bond the falsies to your real eyelashes using your tweezers or fingertips.

1. Determine your eye shape

Every eye shape suits a different style of lash. Unfortunately, it’s not the case of one size fits all – we wish! So it’s important to determine your own eye shape as well as taking your desired result into account, whether you want a natural enhancement or a dramatic lash look.

• Deep-set eyes

If you have deep set eyes they can appear deeper into the head and therefore create the illusion of a more prominent brow bone. Try lashes that are longer in the centre for a full-out fabulous look.

• Close-set or wide-set eyes

This is when the eyes appear close together or further apart from each other. The style that will help to accentuate the outer corners is a cat-eye effect, which will lengthen the eyelashes and help to lift the eye.

• Down-turned eyes

Down-turned eyes appear to be drooping downwards at the outer corner. Lashes with a longer outer corner will elevate this shape, giving them a lifted appearance.

• Hooded eyes

If you have hooded eyes then the crease of your eyelid isn’t visible. Opt for a strip lash where the band is thin and shorter in length so that the eye doesn’t appear too heavy.

• Prominent eyes

This is when your eyelids appear accentuated in the socket area. A lash with natural, varying lengths will beautifully accentuate this eye shape.

• Almond eyes

If you have almond eyes then your eye shape will suit pretty much any kind of lash look – so count yourself lucky if you are blessed with almond eyes!

• Round eyes

Round eyes are a versatile shape that will suit an array of long, curly and wispy eyelash styles, which are perfect for enhancing round peepers.

2. Measure the lash against your eyes

This is the part that many of us get wrong, but it’s a simple step that will make all of the difference when it comes to your end result.

Just remove one of your false lashes from the pack and − without actually applying any lash adhesive − gently place onto one of your eyes to see if it sits perfectly on your lash line. If it extends further than the outer corner of your eye then you need to trim it down slightly until it fits perfectly.

Top tip: A small pair of cosmetic scissorslike the HD Brows Precision Brow Scissors will definitely help with this step.

3. Use a good eyelash glue

A common mistake that often ends in lash frenzy is using the glue included in the pack itself. We can assure you that this is quite simply a recipe for disaster...

For the best results, it’s essential to invest in an easy-to-use, reliable lash glue that will keep your falsies on for as long as possible, and we are certain that the Eylure 18 Hour Lash Glue will serve you well.

The key is to apply a light layer of glue to the entire lash band and let it dry slightly to become tacky, which is usually after about 30 seconds. Then you're ready to apply them!

4. Apply the false eyelashes

Now it’s time for the main event. Grip the strip lash at the outer corner and then, keeping your eye half-closed, gently place your lash onto the centre of your lash line. Make sure that you work quickly to re-position the strip lash as close to the base as possible to remove any gaps.

Fix the inner and outer corners and press down firmly to secure the lash into place. Now just repeat this step on your other eye – it’s a piece of cake once you know how.

To ensure you get the best result possible, we recommend using an ordinary set of tweezers or a lash applicator tool to firmly grip the false eyelashes as you apply them to your lash line. For beginners, a lash applicator like our SOSU by SJ Precision Lash Applicator will help you master this technique for a perfect application every time.

5. Bond the false lashes

Once you’re happy with your result, you need to bond your falsies to your natural eyelashes to enhance the lasting power. This quick step will enhance the wear and tear of your lashes so you can enjoy a long-lasting result.

Using your fingertips or a pair of tweezers, carefully squeeze the strip lashes and your natural lashes together along the base of your eyes for maximum hold.

6. Lift your lashes

An optional but highly recommended step to wrap up this false lash tutorial is faking an eye lift, which will add that perfect finishing touch. All you need to do is lightly press and lift your lashes in an upwards motion to create an eye-opening result. Easy peasy.

So...overcome your fake eyelash fear? Watch the talented Laura Lee's how-to guide and you'll be doing it in your sleep in no time (okay, maybe not in your sleep but you know what we mean!).

What are false lashes made of?

False eyelashes are made from a number of different materials, including synthetic lashes, human hair and mink fur. Synthetic false eyelashes are the most common as they are affordable and comfortable to wear. They also offer tons of volume and length!

Although mink false eyelashes are a lightweight, soft option, they have caused controversy in recent years. If you prefer cruelty-free and vegan-friendly beauty products and false eyelashes, we recommend using our drop-down search options.

Here at Cosmetify, we have a collection of different fluttery, flirty and voluptuous eyelashes. Discover your favourites using our innovative search filters.

How long can you wear false lashes?

It all depends on what the specific brand recommends. Most falsies last during the day and should be removed whenever you cleanse your face. Some brands suggest that their individual false lashes last for a few days at a time. However, to ensure top eye health and to avoid irritations, we suggest removing them at night and reapplying again in the morning with fresh glue.

If gently removed and cleaned properly, some false lashes will last longer and can be used again and again. A top tip for keeping your falsies looking better for longer is, as tempting as it may be, avoid applying mascara directly to the fake lashes - only apply mascara to your natural ones.

How do you remove false lashes?

Now you know how to apply them, you need to know how to remove! Before you go ripping them off your natural lash line just stop and take a moment to think, is that really the best way to remove false eyelashes? Instead, we recommend using an oil-based makeup remover or gentle eye makeup cleanser. Simply apply to a cotton pad and hold over your eye for a few seconds. This will loosen the glue and make it a pain-free process to remove the lash without pulling on your lid.

Remove any excess glue and mascara from your lashes using a dedicated eye makeup remover. Once you've removed your falsies properly, it's time to treat your natural lashes to a nourishing eyelash treatment like a serum.

How do you clean false lashes?

Applied too many coats of mascara to your falsies? Don't worry. You can still salvage them. Start by applying an oil-free eye makeup remover to a cotton swab, then gently rub along the false eyelashes. This will not only help remove any old mascara but will remove any remaining eyelash glue. Make sure you clean the band of the lashes as this is where product builds up.

Once you've cleaned them as much as you can, allow them to air dry and then retailer either in a special case or the original packaging. Cleaning your false lashes properly will help them last longer and save the pennies in the long run.

Still trying to perfect your eye makeup game? Check out our guide on 5 Ways To Apply Eyeshadow to really finish your look off right.