When it comes to eye makeup skills, one of the most difficult is applying false lashes, whether in strip or individual form. But with the best eyelash glue on hand, and tips from pro makeup artist Yvonne MacInnis — who Bustle spoke with for this article — it's about to get a whole lot easier.
First things first: You need the right glue. MacInnis says you should always be cautious of eye sensitivities. "One ingredient that commonly causes irritation is latex," she says, adding that finding a latex-free formula is an easy way to play it safe. There are also a few color options that MacInnis explains are preferred for different uses. "I think white and clear glues are the best option for new or beginner lash users, and definitely for individual lash applications," she notes, adding that darker adhesives should be reserved for when you don't want to disturb dark eyeliner or an intense smoky eye.
How to apply false eyelashes:
Once you're ready to apply, gently remove your lashes from the tray and plot out where you want them to sit. "Try placing a hand mirror on the counter in front of you so that you can look down as you apply the lashes," MacInnis suggests. "It makes it easier to see where you're placing the lash from above the lash line, rather than trying to see directly in the mirror." For strip lashes, MacInnis recommends a brush-on applicator to allow you to apply the glue more precisely and avoid mess. If you stick to individual lashes, she says, "Place a small amount of glue — approximately the size of a pea — on the package and use tweezers to dip the application end of the lashes in a tiny bit of glue." No matter what type of lashes you apply, MacInnis recommends giving the glue about 30 seconds to get tacky before placing the falsies along your lash line and holding them in place (either with your fingers or tweezers) until the adhesive dries.
How to remove fake eyelashes:
Like the rest of your makeup, removing false lashes properly at the end of the night is key to avoiding eye irritation (and getting multiple uses out of your strip lashes). "Use a small amount of makeup remover on a Q-Tip with a gentle rubbing motion to lift the lash off gently," MacInnis advises. "Once the lash has been removed, use another Q-Tip to go over the lash line and remove any excess glue that might be left over." Then, you can go about the rest of your makeup-removing routine. And don't forget to save your strip lashes, as MacInnis notes that falsies can be reused multiple times if you place them back on the lash tray and keep them in good condition.
Whether you're new to applying false lashes or you consider yourself a pro, these are three of the best eyelash glues you can buy on Amazon.