Buying guide for Best false eyelashes
Written by Jennifer Manfrin
Updated August 2023
False eyelashes are a great way to add a touch of glamour to your look and highlight one of your best assets. Today there are an array of false eyelashes on the market, from subtle to va-va-voom, so you are sure to find a style that flatters you.
However, with so many false eyelashes to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are many different factors to consider, including your eye shape, the lash material and band, and the look you’re going for, which can change from day to day. But don’t worry – we’re here to help.
You can make your own set of individual lashes by cutting false eyelash strips into smaller sections.
Types of false eyelashes
Strip lashes
Strip false eyelashes are the most common type. These false lashes are a full strip of lashes that extend across your entire eyelid. If you have small eyes, strip lashes may be too long for you right out of the box. If so, hold the strip to your lid, and measure how much you need. Then cut off the excess from the false lashes’ outer corners before applying.
Demi lashes
Demi lashes are half-strips. They are ideal for winged-eye looks because they add body to the outer corners of your lashes. If your eyes are very wide or narrow, demi lashes may not fit properly. Measure them against your eyes first, and then cut off the excess from the outer corners if needed.
Individual lashes
Individual false eyelashes are individual lashes that you can add anywhere you want to pump up your own lashes. They give the most natural look. Individual lashes are sold in packs with several lengths. You can add short lashes to the inner corner, medium lashes to the middle, and long lashes to the outer corner of your eye.
Lower lashes
For a very dramatic look, you can add lower false eyelashes to your bottom lash line. These false eyelashes are shorter and less voluminous than styles designed for the upper lashes. They are usually sold as strip lashes, but you can cut them apart to create demi or individual lower lashes.
False eyelash features to consider
Eye shape
Eye shape is perhaps the biggest consideration when choosing the most flattering false eyelashes.
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Round: To create a cat-eye look on round eyes, look for false eyelashes that are thicker on the outer corners for an upward swoop. But you don’t want to go with anything too heavy, which will make your eyes appear smaller than they are.
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Almond: If you have almond eyes, almost every style of false eyelash will complement your eyes. It all depends on the look you’re going for. To create rounder-looking eyes, look for false eyelashes that are thicker in the middle to open up your eyes.
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Deep-set: If you have deep-set eyes, don’t be afraid of a little drama. You can wear big, bold false eyelashes. You don’t have to worry about them looking overdone because the depth in your eyes can handle the extra volume.
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Hooded: Look for false lashes that are longer in the center than they are at the edges. This will make your eyes appear wider and give an illusion of depth.
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Monolid: You can go for false lashes that are longer on the ends if you want to elongate your eye shape. Stay away from any style that is too full, though, as this can look unnatural.
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Close-set: If your eyes are close together, you can give the illusion that they are wider apart by wearing false eyelashes that are longer and fuller on the ends.
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Wide-set: When you have wide-set eyes, you may want the illusion that they are closer together. Look for lashes that are longer in the middle and tapered on the ends.
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Upturned or downturned: Both upturned and downturned eyes will benefit from false lashes that are longer at the outer corners than they are in the center. On upturned eyes, this will create a cat-eye look, while downturned eyes will look lifted.
Material
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Mink: False eyelashes made from mink fur are the most expensive. They tend to give the most luxurious look, but wearing real animal fur is controversial for many makeup lovers.
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Real hair: False eyelashes made from real human hair tend to be softer and more comfortable to wear than synthetic lashes. They also tend to look more natural, but they are typically more expensive than silk or synthetic lashes.
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Silk: Silk false eyelashes are cruelty-free, and they give a lighter and finer look than synthetic lashes. They are a great substitute for mink or real hair lashes.
- Synthetic: Synthetic false eyelashes are usually made from acrylic. They may not be a good choice if you have sensitive eyes because the bands are stiffer and more prone to scratching or poking. But they’re a great choice if you’re looking for a fuller, more dramatic look. They are also very glossy and durable.
Volume
In most cases, you’re going to want different false eyelashes for a night out as opposed to the ones that you keep for everyday use. More dramatic false eyelashes are thicker, while natural false eyelashes are less voluminous.
Go with a more natural look for everyday wear. Demi lashes and individual lashes are the most natural way to wear false eyelashes. However, for nights out and special occasions, don’t be afraid to go bigger and bolder as long as the false lashes don’t overpower your eyes. Thick strip lashes have a 3D effect that offers the most volume.
Price
False eyelashes usually range from $1 to $35 per pair, depending on the material.
Inexpensive
Synthetic false eyelashes usually cost $1 to $10 per pair and often come in multipacks with lashes in several different styles.
Mid-range
Silk and real hair false eyelashes usually cost $15 to $25 per pair. They are usually sold in single boxes.
High-end
Mink false eyelashes usually cost $25 to $35 per pair and are almost always sold in single boxes.
Tips
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The denser your false eyelashes are, the more you will notice them on your eyelids, so keep this in mind when choosing the right lashes for you.
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False eyelashes won’t work if you don’t have a good adhesive. Many pairs of false eyelashes come with eyelash glue. You can find both clear and black eyelash glue. There are also latex-free eyelash glues.
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Before you glue, set the false eyelash strip on top of your real lashes to see how it fits. Cut off any excess with scissors. Always cut from the outer corners of the false lashes.
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When putting on false eyelashes, you only need to use a small amount of glue. Spread a thin layer across the lash strip. Wait about 15 to 20 seconds for the glue to get tacky. Then place the false lash as close to your lash line as possible. You can use tweezers, your fingers, or a special lash applicator to apply your false eyelashes.
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To hide a black band, apply black eyeliner over the top of the band once the false lash is in place. You can also buy false eyelashes with clear bands.
- Use an oil-free eye makeup remover to gently loosen the eyelash glue when you’re ready to take off your false eyelashes.
Don’t apply false eyelashes to your eyes as soon as you apply the glue. You want the glue to partially set to get the best hold. Wait until the glue is tacky, about 15 to 20 seconds.
FAQ
Q. Can false eyelashes be reused?
A. Yes. Keep the storage container they come in if you plan on using them more than once. When you take off your false eyelashes, carefully remove any adhesive that remains on the eyelash strip, but don’t wash the lash in water. Depending on how well you care for them and how well they are made, you should be able to get five to 20 uses out of each pair.
Q. What type of false eyelashes should I choose if I have sensitive eyes?
A. If your eyes are sensitive, it’s best to go with false eyelashes made from real hair as the strips are often softer and more comfortable. You should also consider a non-latex eyelash glue if you find that traditional adhesives irritate your eyes.
Q. How do I get my natural eyelashes to blend in with my false eyelashes?
A. A little mascara should do the trick. Once your false eyelashes are securely in place, go over your lashes with mascara to bring them all together.