False Eyelashes: types, how to choose them and how to apply them correctly step by step

False eyelashes instantly transform your look, whether you want a natural daytime look or a dramatic eye for a special occasion. The good news is that you don't need to be a makeup artist to wear them correctly — you just need the right type of lashes, a little patience, and a few simple steps. In this guide, you'll discover the different types of false eyelashes, how to choose them based on your eye shape and the occasion, how to apply them step by step, how to remove them safely, and how to clean them so you can reuse them multiple times.

Types of False Eyelashes

Before you choose, it's useful to know that not all false eyelashes work the same way. They fall into three main categories, each with its own advantages. You can find them all in the false eyelashes collection, so it's worth understanding the differences before you order.

Strip, Individual (Clusters), and Magnetic

Strip lashes are the classic type: a full row of hairs attached to a thin strip that you apply in a single motion along your lash line. They are the quickest to apply, forgiving of minor mistakes, and since they are reusable, they are ideal if you want visible results in just a few minutes — perfect for beginners and for an evening look.

Individual lashes, also known as clusters, are small bunches of hairs that you apply precisely where you want more density. They take longer to apply, but the result is the most natural, and when applied correctly, they can last for several days. They are a good choice if you want to subtly fill in your own lashes without the obvious strip effect.

Magnetic lashes eliminate the need for adhesive: the hairs attach either to each other (one row above and one below your natural lashes) or to a magnetic eyeliner applied beforehand to your eyelid. They are comfortable, easy to put on and take off, and completely avoid glue, but they require a little practice until you get the positioning right.

Materials and Curl

The hairs can be made of synthetic fibers, silk, or faux mink. Synthetic ones are firmer and shinier, suitable for a dramatic effect; silk or faux mink ones are softer, more matte, and feel more natural. The curl and length also matter: a short style with uneven hairs best mimics natural lashes, while long, uniform hairs give a visible "false lash" look. Choose a strip with the thinnest and most flexible base possible — it will mold more easily to your eyelid and stay more comfortably in place all day.

How to Choose the Right Lashes (Eyes, Occasion, Effect)

The right choice starts with your eye shape. If you have close-set eyes, choose longer, denser lashes on the outer corners to "open up" your eyes; for round eyes, a style that elongates outwards creates a more feline shape; almost anything works for almond-shaped eyes, and for hooded eyes, choose hairs that are not too long so they don't touch your eyelid or droop.

Then consider the occasion and the desired effect. For daytime or the office, a natural, short, and sparse style brightens your eyes without looking over the top. For an evening event, a wedding, or a photo shoot, you can go for denser, longer lashes or a "wispy" effect (uneven hairs with longer tips). The simple rule: the more formal the event or the stronger the lighting, the more density you can add. If you wear glasses, choose shorter hairs so they don't touch your lenses.

How to Apply Them Step by Step

Correct application matters more than the style itself. First, prepare all your tools and work in front of a well-lit mirror, ideally with your elbow resting on a stable surface.

What You Need (Adhesive, Tweezers)

You need: a pair of lashes, a good-quality false eyelash adhesive (transparent or black), a pair of tweezers or a dedicated applicator, small scissors to trim the strip, and optionally, an eye pencil as a guide. For magnetic lashes, you only need the set and, if applicable, the magnetic eyeliner. Eye makeup (shadow, eyeliner) is usually done before applying the lashes, and you should only apply mascara to your natural lashes lightly, as a base. You can find all the accessories in the false eyelashes collection.

Strip vs. Individual Application

For strip lashes: first measure and trim the strip along your lash line, cutting off the excess on the outer corner so it doesn't extend past your eye or poke you. Gently bend the strip on your finger for a few seconds so it takes the shape of your eyelid. Apply a thin layer of adhesive along the entire strip, paying special attention to the ends, then wait about 30 seconds until it becomes tacky while holding the false lash bent so it settles better (don't apply it wet, as it will move). With the tweezers, position the strip as close to your natural lash line as possible, securing the middle first, then the inner and outer corners, and gently press your natural hairs together with the false ones.

For individual lashes: put a little adhesive on a clean surface, pick up a cluster with the tweezers, touch the adhesive to its base, and place it at the root of your lashes, working from the outside in, adding clusters only where you want more density. Leave a few seconds between applications so the glue can set. For magnetic lashes with eyeliner, draw the magnetic eyeliner like a normal eyeliner, let it dry slightly, then place the strip over it and press gently.

How to Remove Them Safely

Never pull at the lashes to remove them — you risk breaking your natural lashes and irritating your eyelid. Soak a cotton pad in an oil-based makeup remover or oil-infused micellar water and press it against your lash line for a few seconds to dissolve the adhesive. Then, gently peel the strip off from the outer corner inward. For magnetic lashes with eyeliner, the oil-based makeup remover will also remove the eyeliner. Finally, clean off any remaining glue from your eyelid and moisturize the area.

How to Clean Them and How Many Times You Can Reuse Them

Cleaning extends the life of your lashes. After removing them, use tweezers to remove the layer of adhesive left on the strip, which usually peels off as a thin film. If there are traces of makeup, gently wipe the hairs with a brush and a little oil-free micellar water, avoiding to over-soften the base. Let them dry completely, laid out in their original shape, and store them in the box they came in.

A good-quality pair of strip lashes lasts on average about 10–20 wears, if you handle and clean them carefully after each use. Individual lashes, as they are applied precisely, cannot be reused. Replace the pair when the hairs become misshapen, the strip no longer adheres well, or signs of wear appear — clean lashes in good shape also mean less irritation for your eyelid.

False Lashes vs. Eyelash Extensions

They are two different things. False eyelashes are applied and removed by you, anytime, at home — they are temporary, reusable (strip lashes), and much more affordable. Eyelash extensions are applied hair by hair by a specialist, onto your natural lashes, and last for several weeks, with maintenance appointments. Extensions look natural non-stop and require no daily effort, but they cost considerably more and require a technician. In short: if you want flexibility and control over your budget, choose false lashes; if you want a permanent result without daily application, go for extensions.

False eyelashes are the easiest way to change your look in just a few minutes, without a long-term commitment. Choose the right type for your eye shape and the occasion, apply them patiently as close to your lash line as possible, remove them gently with oil-based makeup remover, and clean them after each use. With a little practice, the process becomes routine — and for the right styles for you, see the false eyelashes collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)