How to Apply Fake Eyelashes

These days, many options exist for creating bigger, bolder, notice-me-now eyelashes, among them lash growth-promoting serums, eyelash extensions, megawatt mascaras and heated eyelash curlers. However, fake eyelashes remain a time-tested favorite because they're inexpensive, quick, convenient and very low-commitment. If you want to dial up the drama for date night but return to a low-key look for work tomorrow, fake eyelashes are the way to go. Once you know how to apply fake eyelashes properly, you can add drama and glamour to your look any time of day or night in just a few simple steps.
Finding the right fit
When it comes to fake eyelashes, you have several options, including full lash strips, lash clusters and individual lashes. A full set is your fastest option and helps lashes look their most abundant, but it also could look the most unnatural if applied incorrectly. If you purchase a full set, you can always trim the lashes to make them look more natural or even cut a full set into individual lashes prior to application. Regardless of which option you choose, there's no need to spend a fortune on expensive fake eyelashes. An inexpensive brand from your drugstore works just fine, and you might even be able to use them several times before you toss them.
Preparing the eyelashes
The lash application process itself is quick and simple. You'll likely spend more time preparing your fake eyelashes than actually applying them. If necessary, start by trimming too-long lashes. To ensure that your fake eyelashes look natural, trim at an angle and cut each individual lash to a different length, whether you're working with a full lash fringe or individual lashes. For a natural look, the longest lashes should be concentrated on the outside corners of your eyes.
Prepping the area
Once your eyelashes are ready, prep the eye area by making sure your eyelids and lashes are clean and free of any old makeup. Because most fake eyelashes have a dramatic curl, it's helpful to curl your own lashes with an eyelash curler. This helps the false eyelashes blend in well with your natural lashes and adds to the drama. Use a heated eyelash curler for best results or warm a regular eyelash curler by blasting it with a blow dryer for about three seconds prior to use. After curling your lashes, apply a thin line of eyeliner as close to the lash line as possible. This will conceal the lash roots, making your false eyelashes look more natural.
Applying the glue
How you apply glue to fake eyelashes depends upon which type of lashes you're using. For full sets, apply a thin line of glue along the lash base, using a very fine makeup brush or a toothpick. Don't use your fingers, or you'll have a big mess on your hands -- literally. When applying clusters and individual lashes, apply a few drops of glue to a hard surface. A small piece of foil works well if you'd like to protect your vanity counters. Let the glue dry for just a minute. Once it's tacky, you can use tweezers to dip clusters or individual eyelashes into it.
Application technique
When using full eyelash strips, apply as close to the roots of your natural eyelashes as possible, using your fingers to position the strip and starting with the outer corner of your eye and working inward. Once the strip is in position, use a Q-tip to carefully press it into place. Be sure to trim lashes to the appropriate length before applying. For lash clusters or individual eyelashes, also start at the outer corner of your eye and work inward. Use a tweezers to set the lashes in place, and hold for a few seconds to give the glue a chance to set. For a natural look, be sure to leave some space between lashes, and focus on the outer corner and center of your eyes. Lashes are naturally sparse on the inner corner of the eye, so applying fake eyelashes in this area results in a very unnatural look.
Finishing the look
After giving the glue several minutes to set, you can finish this dramatic look with more eye makeup. Thicker eyeliner can be applied after the lashes are in place to further camouflage the false eyelashes. A cat eye created with liquid liner makes for a dramatic look, but if you prefer something more subtle, some dark eyeshadow applied along the upper lash line also works well. One or two coats of black mascara will help blend the fake eyelashes with your natural lashes.
Now that you know how to apply fake eyelashes, you can apply lash strips or even individual lashes in just a few minutes. This is an easy way to create a dramatic look for a special event, like a big party or important professional event, or even just a night out with friends.