How to Apply False Lashes: Strip and Cluster, Step by Step

False lashes can completely transform your eyes, from a natural effect to full glam. If your first try ended with the strip lifting at the corner or glue all over your fingers, do not worry: it is all about technique and practice.

Here is how to apply strip and cluster lashes at home.

Types of false lashes

Strip lashes

A full band placed along your lash line. They go on quickly and come in natural, volume or dramatic styles.

Cluster lashes

Small groups placed in sections, usually underneath your natural lashes. They look more natural and adapt to any eye shape. DIY kits usually include the clusters, bond and a sealant.

Individual lashes

To fill in gaps or add volume to the outer corner.

How to apply strip lashes, step by step

1. Do your eye makeup first: shadow, liner and a coat of mascara on your natural lashes.
2. Measure the strip: hold it along your lash line without glue. If it is longer than your eye, trim it from the outer end.
3. Flex the band: gently bend it into a "C" shape a couple of times so it follows the curve of your eye.
4. Apply the glue: a thin line along the band, with a little extra at the corners.
5. Wait 30 seconds: the glue should turn tacky (almost clear) before you place the lash. This step is key.
6. Place from the center: looking down into the mirror, set the strip on the center of your lash line, as close to the root as possible, then adjust the corners.
7. Press and blend: with tweezers or the handle of a brush, press gently. Pinch your natural and false lashes together with your fingers.
8. Hide the band: if it shows, run liquid or gel liner over it.

How to apply cluster lashes

1. Apply the adhesive or bond to the underside of your natural lashes, section by section.
2. With tweezers, pick up a cluster and place it under your lashes, a couple of millimeters from the lid line, without touching the skin.
3. Start at the outer corner with the longest ones and work toward the inner corner with shorter ones.
4. Gently press your natural lashes and the clusters together with the applicator.
5. Apply the sealant if your kit includes one.

Pro tips

• Curl your natural lashes first so you do not get a "double line."
• Choose lashes for your eye shape: if your eyes are round, styles that are longer at the outer corner elongate them; if your eyes are small, lightweight styles look more natural.
• For long events or hot weather, use a strong-hold glue and avoid touching your eyes.
• Practice on a day with no rush, not right before an event.

How to remove and care for them

• Dampen the band with bi-phase makeup remover or oil and wait a few seconds.
• Gently peel from the outer corner inward, without tugging.
• Remove leftover glue from the band with tweezers.
• Store them in their original case so they keep their shape.

Common mistakes

• Applying them while the glue is still too wet.
• Placing them too far from the lash root.
• Not trimming the strip when it is longer than your eye.
• Sleeping in strip lashes.

Find it at BeautyRosee

In our makeup collection you will find strip lashes in natural and glam styles, DIY cluster lash kits, lash glue, lash curlers and mascaras to blend natural and false lashes. Also check out the eyeliners from Beauty Creations to hide the band.

FAQ

Does mascara or false lashes go first?

With strip lashes, apply a light coat of mascara before and, if needed, another after to blend them. With clusters, follow your kit's directions; many are applied without mascara.

How many times can they be worn?

It depends on the material and care. If you clean them gently and store them in their case, many can be reused several times.

Are cluster lashes hard to apply?

They take a little more practice than strip lashes, but the result usually looks very natural.

What should I do if the corner lifts?

Apply a dot of glue with a toothpick, wait a few seconds for it to get tacky and press.

Well-placed lashes open up your eyes and complete any look. Find yours in our makeup collection.