How to Apply False Eyelashes and Other Fake Lash Hacks

Mascara can work wonders on your lashes, but when you want to add serious drama for a night out on the town, applying false eyelashes is a great option. The only thing standing in the way of you and stunning eyelashes? Learning how to put on fake eyelashes perfectly. Even makeup pros can have trouble figuring out how to make false lashes go on just right every time. While there’s no such thing as a foolproof application, there are some tips that can help to save you from struggling with your lash strip the next time you decide to fake it. 

Below, we’re sharing an easy tutorial on how to apply false eyelashes, as well as breaking down 10 hacks that can help turn you into a total pro at using fake eyelashes.

HOW TO APPLY FALSE EYELASHES

Yes, false eyelashes take a little practice, but once you learn the five key steps it takes to glue on eyelashes, it all gets much easier. Follow our step-by-step tutorial on how to apply false eyelashes to get it right.

STEP #1: APPLY MASCARA FIRST

First things first, you’ll need to get prep your natural lashes with mascara! See, mascara works wonders to help blend your natural lashes with your falsies for a seamless look. Amp up your lashes with a few coats of the L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Washable Mascara, Lasting Volume for a curled and lifted look that matches your false eyelashes. 

STEP #2: SNIP THE STRIP

As much as you may want to apply your false lashes as is, they’re not always designed to fit your unique eye shape perfectly. Check to see if they’re the right size for your eyes, and if not, you’ll want to give them a quick trim for the perfect fit. 

STEP #3: GLUE YOUR STRIP

Now that your false eyelashes and your natural lashes are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to add some glue into the mix. Brush the eyelash glue onto the band of the lash strip and allow it to get tacky. If you apply too soon, while the glue is still very wet, your falsies won’t stay in place. Once the glue feels tacky, you’re ready to roll.

STEP #4: APPLY YOUR LASHES

Place your false eyelashes as close to your natural lash line as possible. Start in the middle of your eye, then stick the sides down to ensure that your falsies are correctly placed. 

STEP #5: BRING ON THE EYELINER

Next up? Eyeliner! If you’ve ever wondered how false eyelashes can look so natural, it’s all thanks to this makeup essential! By simply applying a thin line over the band of your false eyelashes, you’ll be able to score a natural look. Not to mention, it can make your fringe look even fuller. Try the L’Oréal Paris Matte Signature Liquid Dip Eyeliner, Waterproof, to get the job done. Voila, you’ve mastered how to put on fake eyelashes!

10 HACKS FOR USING FAKE EYELASHES

Now that you know how to do eyelashes, it’s time to elevate your technique and really become the lash master you’re meant to be. Here are the 10 best hacks for fake eyelashes. 

FALSE LASH HACK #1: WORK IN STRIPS

While we already covered snipping your false eyelashes to get a great fit, you can also snip some more off to give yourself better control. That’s right, simply snip the strip in half and apply the lashes in pieces. If you prefer a more subtle and natural look, wear only half a strip. 

FALSE LASH HACK #2: TAKE IT ONE LASH AT A TIME

You don’t have to limit yourself to a strip of lashes to get a false lash look. Instead, try individual lashes. If you’ve ever wondered how to customize your lash look, individual lashes are the answer to your prayers! They will give you more control over your falsies. Try placing a few at the outer corner of your eye for a cat eye effect.

FALSE LASH HACK #3: DOUBLE UP ON SETS

Sometimes, two is better than one. When you want your lashes to have major drama, feel free to start layering. Give wearing two sets of lashes directly on top of one another a shot for a seriously statement-making look. You can layer two of the same false lash sets or try parting lashes with different qualities, like one super full set and another that’s wispier.

FALSE LASH HACK #4: LOOK DOWN AT THE MIRROR

When applying fake eyelashes, you may be used to looking straight ahead into a mirror. Instead, look down to help give you a better view of your natural lash line. After all, you need to get as close to your lash line as possible to glue on eyelashes correctly.

FALSE LASH HACK #5: REMOVE THEM WITH EASE

While you may be used to tugging your eyelashes off after a long day, that’s not the answer to how to remove false eyelashes. Haphazardly pulling off false lashes can do a number on your real lashes. Ouch! The best way to go about removal is to use an oil-based eye makeup remover to help break down the lash glue and easily remove the lashes. Once you’re done applying makeup remover with a cotton swab or ball, carefully lift the lashes off and stow them away for next time.

FALSE LASH HACK #6: MAKE TWEEZERS YOUR BFF

News flash: Tweezers are good for more than just plucking stray hairs. Give your tweezers a new job as a lash application tool. You can use tweezers to hold the lashes and help place them ever so perfectly. The double-duty tool will be especially handy for those who are partial to applying individual lashes.

FALSE LASH HACK #7: DON’T SKIP YOUR BROWS

Think filling in your brows has nothing to do with your falsies? Think again. If you’re wondering how to make false lashes look more natural, full, bold brows are your answer. Filling in your eyebrows will balance out the drama from your falsies and keep them from creating a harsh contrast with the rest of your makeup look. Try using the L’Oréal Paris UnbelievaBrow Longwear Waterproof Brow Gel to build and sculpt your brows to the perfect intensity.

FALSE LASH HACK #8: CURL AWAY

Using an eyelash curler is one of the best ways to blend your actual lashes with false lashes. Not sure how to do eyelashes with one? Head over to our article, How to Use an Eyelash Curler.

FALSE LASH HACK #9: KEEP IT CLEAN

Remember when we mentioned using false lashes more than one time? Being able to reuse lash strips is all about knowing how to clean false eyelashes. The key thing is to be gentle when cleaning them. After you remove your falsies (see hack number five), place your fake eyelash strips on a paper towel. Then dip a cotton swab in a makeup remover, like the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types, and carefully wipe away any mascara or glue that’s on the strip of your lashes. That’s it! Not bad, right? The trick is to clean your falsies right away before buildup really has a chance to settle on the lash strip.

Editor’s tip: Applied mascara over your falsies? No need to panic. Simply saturate a cotton pad with micellar water and gently wipe off the lashes, just as you would remove mascara from your actual eyelashes. 

FALSE LASH HACK #10: USE THE RIGHT LASH GLUE

Just like other makeup products, there are different types of lash glue to choose from. Typically, you’ll want to use a lash glue that has a matte finish, as one that dries with a shiny finish will be a dead giveaway against your lash line. Picked up a lash glue with the wrong finish? No worries, just line your upper lash line with eyeliner to conceal any unsightly glue! You can also opt for a black lash glue formula, which can make glue on eyelashes look even fuller.

There you go! Next time you apply false lashes, it’s sure to be a cinch. Want to pair your falsies with an equally dramatic eye makeup look? Check out our article, Anything But Ordinary: 7 Modern Takes on Winged Eyeliner, for six different step-by-step tutorials.