Pro Tips for Applying False Lashes
Photo: Henry Leutwyler
If you’re anything like me, you’ve been practicing your false lash application since before Halloween in hopes of nailing it in time for the holidays—but are not quite there yet. I reached out to lash pro and makeup artist Tracy Murphy, to get her tips for flawless falsie application. With her guidance, you’ll definitely make it to the party on time.
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Select a lash set. Murphy says the most important thing is to go for a set of lashes with polished tips rather than blunt ends because they will look more natural—this applies to full strip lash sets and individuals. “Individuals are a great way to add in extra oomph without committing to an entire strip,” says Murphy.
Gather your supplies. When it comes to glue, keep in mind that many formulas are latex based. If you have an allergy or sensitivity to latex, be sure to check the label before application. Murphy recommends only using a long wear formula on individual lashes. “Do not use long wearing glue on strip or band lashes—you can end up ripping your lashes out,” she says. Once you have your glue selected, make sure you also have a tweezers or lash applicator tool on hand, a mirror, and of course, two free hands.
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Prep lashes. If you are applying a full strip of lashes, Murphy suggests curling them in advance with a pen. Wrap the strip around it so the root band will better hug your eye shape. “I learned this trick from [singer] Gloria Gaynor and it hasn’t failed me yet!” says Murphy. “You can do this while you are working on the rest of your face and then apply your lashes at the end.”
Apply a full set. Next, take the lash and try it along your lash line to see if it needs to be trimmed. “Apply the glue in a thin strip along the root and wait about one minute for the glue to get gummy,” instructs Murphy. For easiest application, tilt your chin up and focus your gaze downwards while placing the lash at the roots. You’ll know your positioning is correct if you don’t feel any poking at the edges. “You can adjust as needed for one to two minutes before the glue sets completely,” she says.
Apply individual lashes. With individual lashes, the process is similar and may potentially be easier for a less-experienced hand. “Dab the root with a touch of glue and place them where needed,” says Murphy. “You can create so many different looks with these. Add a few short to medium length lashes in the middle of the eye and slowly graduate to longer ones on the outer corner for elongated drama.” For the most options, select a multi pack of lashes that include long, medium and short styles.
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Finish the look. “I always touch up by adding in a little black liquid liner if there are any spaces between the real and false lash for a seamless finish,” says Murphy.“Once I have finished adding the lashes, I will do a sweep of mascara to blend the lashes together to look more uniform.”
Removing the lashes. When it comes time to take off your falsies, make sure you have an oil-based makeup remover on hand. “I usually soak a lint-free cotton pad in an oil-based remover and then let it sit on the eye for a bit,” says Murphy. The glue and lashes should come off with ease. If you are using non-latex glue, the removal process is the same but you’ll let the cotton pad sit for longer.
