How To: Apply False Eyelashes

Trim your false eyelashes before you apply them.

False eyelashes can be stunning when applied properly, but can look fake or uneven if not correctly applied. False eyelashes are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. If you are going for a fairly natural look, choose dark brown or black lashes that are not too long. Make sure your eye area is clean before you apply your lashes, since the adhesive won't stick properly to any oils or makeup already on your skin. Use oil-free makeup remover and cleanser to make sure the area is clean.

Things You'll Need

• False eyelashes
• Eyelash adhesive
• Cuticle scissors
• Toothpicks
• Tweezers
• Mirror
• Liquid eyeliner

Instructions

1. Make sure your false eyelashes fit your eyes. Press the fake eyelashes to your eyelid along your natural lash line. If the fake eyelashes extend beyond the natural line, cut off as much as needed from the outside edge with cuticle scissors. Trim one or two lashes at a time to make sure you don't cut too much off.

2. Apply the eyelash adhesive to the false eyelashes. You may find it easy to glide the glue onto the tiny band that holds the lashes together straight from the applicator. If you are having trouble, try using a toothpick or the rounded ends of tweezers to apply the adhesive. Make sure you have enough glue on each end of the lashes, as the ends tend to come loose easily.

3. Allow adhesive to dry slightly. The glue needs to be tacky before applying. If you apply the lash with wet glue, it will slide out of place and look odd. Make sure the adhesive does not dry completely, but is sticky when touched.

4. Place false eyelashes on your eyelid. Close your eye slightly. Make sure the lashes are centered on your eye. Place them as close as possible to your lash line without sticking them directly on your lashes. Press lightly and carefully with your fingers or tweezers. Allow to dry for 30 seconds.

5. Fill in the gaps. If you can see some of your lid between the fake eyelashes and your natural lashes, use liquid eyeliner to paint those gaps. Also run a line of liquid eyeliner along the top edge of the fake eyelashes to help the band blend naturally and to cover up any lumps of glue. Repeat Steps 2 through 5 for other eye.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not remove false lashes by ripping them off your eyes -- soak a cotton pad in makeup remover and hold it to your eye for a few seconds. This will dissolve the adhesive and the lashes will come off your eye easily. Repeat for other eye.

References

• Miss Natty's Beauty Diary: How to Apply False Eyelashes
• Celebrity Beauty Secret Goldmine: How To Apply False Eyelashes