Whether you are blessed with a naturally voluminous set of lashes or not, a pair of gossamer falsies can add a ton of glamour to any makeup look in a matter of seconds. But despite the growing number of women adding falsies to their beauty routines, the common misconception surrounding them is that they are cumbersome to apply and look too obvious. There are, however, actually lots of different types of false lashes that can be tailored to your exact specifications, whether you’re looking for something super-natural or extra sexy — you just need to know how to work with them. Wondering where to start? Ahead, we've rounded up the best false lashes and a few tips on how to wear 'em.
For Natural-Looking Volume
Ardell's Demi Wispies are a great option for those looking to add some heft to their lashes without weighing them down. Trace some lash glue (we like Duo's Dark Lash Adhesive) along the band of the lash, and wait for 20 to 30 seconds until the glue becomes tacky. Then place the lash on your eyelid as close to your lashline as possible and voilà, instant volume.
Ardell Demi Wispies Multipack, $9.50, available at Walmart.
For Intense Fullness
"Although [these] lashes are dramatic, the band is thin, so they are comfortable," says professional makeup artist Ricky Wilson. "I trim them from the outside and they look beautiful for a stronger lash."
Pro tip: If your lashes start lifting throughout the day, grab a tube of mascara and dot on a tiny glob of the product, which acts as a temporary bond, to your false lashes, then press your false lashes and natural lashes together. This will keep your falsies from falling off before you get home.
Ardell Double Up 203 Black False Eyelashes, $6.99, available at Beauty Plus Salon.
For Sparse Lashes
Professional makeup artist Elisa Flowers recommends Alcone's 386 lashes for those looking for minimal yet feathery lashes. "The delicate strip has thin clusters of lashes spaced evenly apart," she says. "[It's] perfect for applying to the finest of eyelashes."
Alcone 386 False Eyelashes, $2.55, available at Alcone.
For Subtle Definition
For those looking for a hassle-free approach to falsies, individuals are definitely the way to go; if you lose a cluster or two, it won't ruin your look. Wilson likes using a mixture of Ardell's short and medium lengths directly on his clients' natural hairs because they blend seamlessly, while providing wispy volume.
Ardell Individuals Flare Short Black, $3.99, available at Ulta.
For Major Drama
Velour's cruelty-free mink lashes are also staples in Wilson's kit. "I normally use these for clients who don't mind a heavy lash for a very special occasion," he says.
Velour Lashes Rich and Fluffy, $35, available at Velour Lashes.
For Adding Length
Flowers loves MAC's 33 lashes, because the tapered clusters bring attention to the center of the eye. Plus, because of the lashes' clear band, they're nearly undetectable on the lid.
MAC 33 Lash, $17, available at MAC.
For Making The Eyes Look Larger
"These half lashes are a nice alternative to a full strip of eyelashes," says Flowers. Simply place them toward the outer corners of your lashes for an eye-opening effect.
Ardell 318 Lash Accents, $3.25, available at HB Beauty Bar.
For The Lashless
Founder of Thrive Causemetics, Karissa Bodnar, developed a line of false lashes after losing a beloved friend to cancer. The lashes are specifically designed to have a slight curve which hugs the eyelid so that women with or without lashes can enjoy them. Plus, because of Thrive's one-for-one initiative, when you buy a product from the brand, a product of the same style is given to a woman battling cancer.
Thrive Causemetics Kristy Faux Lashes, $26, available at Thrive Causemetics.
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