How To Get Bigger, Bolder Lashes—With or Without Fake Eyelashes

Long, fluttery lashes can instantly elevate your makeup look, adding drama, definition, and that wide-awake effect we all love. That’s the magic of fake eyelashes. But here’s the thing: you don’t always need falsies to get that bold, voluminous lash look. Whether you're applying a pair of dramatic strip lashes or using makeup tricks to fake the effect, there are plenty of ways to achieve thick eyelashes your way.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to apply fake eyelashes like a pro, share clever ways to mimic the look using just makeup, and give you natural tips to support healthy, long eyelashes. Let’s dive into all things lashes.

How To Apply Fake Eyelashes Like a Pro

Applying fake eyelashes doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little patience and the right technique, anyone can master the art of big lashes with falsies.

Step 1: Choose the right lashes for your look

Before you reach for the glue, choose a lash style that matches your mood or makeup look. Natural, clear-band styles are great for everyday wear, while fluffy, full lashes add instant glamour. If you want big eyelashes for a night out or photos, opt for crisscross or multi-layered styles. Don’t forget to trim them to fit your eye shape.

Step 2: Prep your natural lashes first, and then the fake ones

Start with a lash curler to give your natural lashes a gentle lift. Take the falsies out of the package, gently pulling down with the balls of your fingers to unstick them from the package. Next, measure the fake eyelashes against your eyelids and trim with small scissors to fit your eyes perfectly. Please trim away from your eye, not against it. You want to experiment with an inexpensive pair of fake eyelashes first to get your bearings before you buy a more expensive pair.

Step 3: Apply lash glue and place with precision

Apply a thin, even layer of lash glue to the lash band and wait 30 seconds for it to get tacky. Using tweezers or a lash applicator, position the strip as close to your lash line as possible, but ensure it does not tangle with your eyelashes. Start in the center and press down on the corners. One great tip is to do this last part of the procedure placing a mirror under your face and looking down as you put them on. This will give you greater visibility and help you place the lashes exactly where you want them.

Step 4: Blend with eyeliner

Now use eyeliner to disguise the lash band and make your eyes pop. Try the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner for a long-wearing formula that glides on smoothly and adds bold definition to your lash line.

Step 5: Apply a coat of mascara

Apply one coat of mascara to help blend your natural lashes with the fake ones, creating a seamless look with long lashes that genuinely stand out. We recommend using the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara for extreme length and precision. Its lash-separating brush and lengthening formula will help your natural lashes blend seamlessly with the falsies.

Bonus tips for falsie success

• Choose black lash glue to double as liner for a clean, defined finish that blends into your makeup.
• You can reuse your lashes up to five times by gently removing adhesive buildup, cleansing them with an oil-free makeup remover, and storing them in their original tray to maintain their shape.

How To Get Longer Eyelashes Without Falsies

If you're not into glue and lash strips, you can mimic fake eyelashes with a few strategic makeup moves and the right products.

Layer mascara like a lash stylist

Start with curled lashes and apply 2–3 coats of your go-to mascara, letting each coat dry slightly before applying the next to avoid clumping and get maximum definition. Work from the base to the tips, wiggling the wand for even application. These mascaras are perfect for the job:

L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara: This mascara features an ultra-soft wavy brush that catches each lash for an intense volumizing effect that lasts up to 36 hours without clumping or flaking.

L'Oréal Paris Big Deal Buildable Washable Mascara: If dramatic lash looks are what you’re after, this mascara was made for you. It’s endlessly layerable, so you can create as much length and volume as you want without worrying about the formula clumping.

Master the tightline technique

Tightlining your upper waterline with dark eyeliner creates the illusion of thicker eyelashes by filling in gaps between your natural lashes. This subtle trick gives your lash line a dense, bold look without falsies. Try the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Waterproof Eyeliner for a precise, smudge-resistant line that enhances definition and stays put all day.

Accentuate the outer corners

To mimic the shape of fake eyelashes, focus your mascara on the outer third of your lashes. Use the wand vertically to add detail and length. You can also add a little winged liner to enhance the lift.

Double up your mascara techniques

Try a lengthening mascara first, like the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara, then layer a volumizing one over it, for example, the L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara. Combining formulas helps you build extra-long eyelashes with a bold finish.

How To Get Longer Eyelashes Naturally

If you want naturally beautiful, thick eyelashes that rival falsies, building better habits and giving your lashes a little extra care and attention can go a long way.

Be gentle when removing eye makeup and falsies

Your lashes are delicate. Always use a gentle makeup remover to dissolve mascara and glue. Press a soaked pad over your eyelid and hold for a few seconds before wiping—no rubbing. If you wear fake eyelashes, peel them off slowly from the outer corner, never yank.

Avoid overusing lash curlers

Over-crimping can lead to breakage. Use curlers sparingly, and always curl before mascara—not after—to avoid pulling out fragile lashes.

Moisturize and condition with natural oils

Hydrated lashes are happy lashes. Use a clean spoolie to apply a small amount of castor or coconut oil to your lash line before bed. Regular use can help prevent brittleness and breakage.

Feed your lashes from the inside out

Your diet plays a big role in eyelash growth. Protein, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A and E support healthy hair—including your eyelashes. Eat eggs, fatty fish, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and almonds for a natural boost.

Take a break from heavy eye makeup

Skipping mascara for a few days a week gives your lashes time to recover. Going makeup-free helps prevent lash thinning and allows your natural eyelashes to breathe and regrow.

Be patient—yes, eyelashes do grow

Wondering, “do eyelashes grow back?” They absolutely do. Like the hair on your head, your lashes grow in cycles. It may take a few weeks to see new growth, but with consistent care, you’ll notice stronger, longer lashes over time.

Other healthy lash habits

• Sleep on your back to avoid rubbing your lashes into your pillow, which can lead to unnecessary lash loss over time.
• Don’t pick or pull at mascara flakes, as this can damage the lash follicle and cause breakage.
• Clean your lash tools, like curlers and spoolies, at least once a week with gentle soap or alcohol to prevent bacteria buildup and keep your lashes healthy.

Next Up: How To Determine Your Eye Shape

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris