False eyelashes are a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their eyes, but for beginners, the thought of applying them can be intimidating. From choosing the right pair to mastering the glue application, there are plenty of steps that can go wrong—but with the right guidance, anyone can learn to apply false eyelashes like a pro. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of applying false eyelashes, from prep to finish, and share expert tips to help you avoid common mistakes. We’ll also cover the best false eyelashes for beginners, how to care for your falsies to make them reusable, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence to apply false eyelashes seamlessly and achieve a flawless, natural-looking finish every time.
First, let’s start with the essentials: choosing the right false eyelashes for beginners. As a beginner, you want to select false eyelashes that are easy to apply, comfortable to wear, and natural-looking. Avoid overly dramatic or heavy styles, as these can be harder to handle and may feel overwhelming. Instead, opt for lightweight, wispy false eyelashes with a flexible band—these are easier to manipulate and blend with your natural lashes. Lash clusters are also a great option for beginners, as they are smaller and more customizable than strip lashes, allowing you to build volume gradually without the pressure of applying a full strip. Many brands offer beginner-friendly false eyelash kits that include everything you need: falsies, lash glue, a lash applicator, and even remover. These kits are designed to simplify the process and set you up for success.
One of the best false eyelashes for beginners is the under-lash cluster system, which creates a seamless, extension-like finish that’s lightweight and easy to customize. These kits typically include 30-40 lash clusters, tweezers, lash adhesive, and sealer, making them perfect for beginners who want a natural look without the hassle of strip lashes. Another great option is natural-looking strip lashes with a clear band—these are invisible and blend seamlessly with your lash line, making them ideal for everyday wear. Look for false eyelashes labeled “beginner-friendly” or “easy to apply” to ensure they’re designed with your skill level in mind.
Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step application process. Before you start, gather your supplies: false eyelashes, lash glue (preferably latex-free if you have sensitive eyes), a lash applicator or tweezers, eyelash curler, mascara, and eyeliner (optional). Follow these steps for a flawless application:
Step 1: Prep your natural lashes. Start by curling your natural lashes with an eyelash curler—this helps lift them and creates a base for the false eyelashes to adhere to. Next, apply a thin coat of mascara to your natural lashes—this helps them blend with the false eyelashes and adds extra volume. Wait for the mascara to dry completely before moving on to the next step, as wet mascara can cause the false eyelashes to slide or clump.
Step 2: Measure and trim the false eyelashes. Take the false eyelashes out of the package and gently pull them away from the tray using the balls of your fingers (avoid pulling the lashes themselves, as this can damage them). Hold the false eyelash band against your eye line and measure the length—if the band is longer than your eye width, trim the outer corner with small scissors. Always trim from the outer corner, as the inner corner is shorter and fits the inner part of your eye. Trim a little at a time, as you can always trim more if needed. It’s better to trim too little than too much, as you can adjust the fit later.
Step 3: Apply the lash glue. Squeeze a small amount of lash glue onto a clean surface (like the back of your hand) and use the tip of the false eyelash band to pick up a thin, even layer of glue. Make sure to cover the entire band, but avoid applying too much glue—excess glue can seep onto your eyelids and cause irritation, or make the false eyelashes heavy and clumpy. Wait 30 seconds for the glue to become tacky—this is crucial, as tacky glue adheres better to your lash line and prevents the false eyelashes from sliding. If the glue is too wet, the false eyelashes will slip around; if it’s too dry, it won’t stick at all.
Step 4: Apply the false eyelashes. Using a lash applicator or tweezers, hold the false eyelash band by the outer corner and position it as close to your natural lash line as possible. Start at the center of your eye and press the band down firmly, then move to the inner corner and press down, followed by the outer corner. For better visibility, place a mirror under your face and look down as you apply the false eyelashes—this allows you to see your lash line clearly and ensure the band is placed correctly. Once the band is in place, use the tip of the applicator to press down along the entire band to ensure it’s securely adhered. Avoid touching the false eyelashes for a few seconds to allow the glue to set.
Step 5: Blend and finish. Once the glue is dry, use an eyelash curler to gently curl your natural lashes and the false eyelashes together—this helps blend them seamlessly. Apply a second coat of mascara to blend the lashes further and add extra volume. If needed, use eyeliner to disguise the lash band—this is especially helpful if you’re using a black band false eyelash. You can also use a small brush to groom the lashes and separate any clumps.
Now that you know the step-by-step process, let’s cover some common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them. One of the most common mistakes is applying too much glue—this not only looks messy but can also cause irritation and make the false eyelashes heavy. To avoid this, always apply a thin, even layer of glue and wait for it to become tacky before applying. Another common mistake is placing the false eyelashes too far from the lash line—this creates a gap that looks unnatural. Make sure to position the band as close to your natural lash line as possible, without touching your eyelid.
Many beginners also struggle with trimming the false eyelashes incorrectly—trimming the inner corner instead of the outer corner can make the falsies look lopsided. Remember to always trim from the outer corner, and trim a little at a time. If you trim too much, you can always use a small piece of the trimmed lash to fill in the gap, but it’s better to avoid this by taking your time.
Another mistake is rushing the application—take your time, especially when positioning the false eyelashes. If you’re in a hurry, you’re more likely to misplace the band or apply too much glue. Set aside a few extra minutes when applying false eyelashes, especially when you’re first starting out. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless. With each application, you’ll get better at positioning the falsies and applying the glue correctly.
Caring for your false eyelashes is also important, as it allows you to reuse them multiple times and get the most out of your investment. After wearing your false eyelashes, gently remove them by peeling the band from the outer corner to the inner corner—never pull them off forcefully, as this can damage your natural lashes. Once removed, use a cotton pad soaked in lash remover or micellar water to gently wipe away any glue or mascara from the band and lashes. Lay the false eyelashes flat on a clean surface to dry completely before storing them back in their original tray. Avoid using oil-based products near your false eyelashes, as oil can break down the glue and damage the lashes.
For beginners, it’s also important to choose the right lash glue. Look for a glue that is easy to apply, dries clear, and is gentle on sensitive eyes. Latex-free glues are a great option for those with allergies, as they are less likely to cause irritation. Some glues also come with a brush applicator, which makes it easier to apply a thin, even layer to the lash band.
Frequently asked questions for beginners: Can I reuse false eyelashes? Yes, most false eyelashes can be reused 5-10 times with proper care. How do I remove false eyelashes without damaging my natural lashes? Use a gentle lash remover or micellar water, and peel the band from the outer corner to the inner corner. Why do my false eyelashes keep falling off? This is usually due to applying too little glue, not waiting for the glue to become tacky, or placing the band too far from the lash line. How do I make my false eyelashes look natural? Choose lightweight, wispy styles, trim them to fit your eye shape, and blend them with your natural lashes using mascara and eyeliner.
In conclusion, applying false eyelashes as a beginner doesn’t have to be intimidating. By choosing the right false eyelashes, following the step-by-step application process, and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve a flawless, natural-looking finish every time. Remember to be patient, practice regularly, and care for your falsies to make them last. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll be applying false eyelashes like a pro in no time. Whether you’re looking to enhance your everyday makeup or create a glamorous look for a special occasion, false eyelashes are a simple way to elevate your eye game and boost your confidence.