How to Choose the Best Lash for You

We all love to look and feel our best. Whether you want an easy everyday solution with some lash extensions or a one-night love affair with a set of strip lashes, there’s something for everyone.

An effective and affordable way to instantly transform your look from ordinary to extraordinary, falsies are a great way to add a touch of glamour to any look. They come in a variety of styles, lengths, colors, and textures. Typically, they are made from synthetic materials, but they can also be real mink, human hair, or even silk.

Which is great but... how to choose the best lash for you?

Take the quiz below and read up on your ideal style below!

LASH TYPES

Below are all of the types of lashes. Based on your answers to the above quiz, you should be able to choose a lash much easier.

Piecey Cluster Lashes

STRIP LASHES

What they are:

When you think of falsies, a pair of strip lashes is likely what comes to mind. Full-strip lashes are meant to be long enough to fit across the entire length of the eyelid. They can have an opaque band (usually black) or an invisible band.

Tip: When picking strip lashes, look for pairs that have a thin, clear and round band. They tend to be more comfortable that the thick, black, plastic bands.

Comfort Level: 7/10

If the lashes are trimmed to the correct length of the eye and have a flexible band, these can be comfortable. It will feel like you have something on your eye. It usually takes about 30 minutes to get used to them.

Faves:

Miss AOA lashes in Scarlette

Dark Swan of Denmark

Dark Swan Strip Lash in 'Dream'

To Apply:

I. Lash Length

– Gently remove your lash from the tray. Before applying glue, make sure they fit properly by setting the lash against your eyelid to compare lengths and make sure they fit properly. If they are too long, trim from the outer end to make the right fit. Cut the second lash to match.

TIP: I also like to flex the band of the falsies so they're not too stiff when you go to apply them.

II. Glue

– Apply a thin single layer of adhesive onto the lash band. I like to put a smidge more on the inner corner of the lash band to ensure it doesn't lift. Wait for a few seconds until the glue becomes tacky.

III. Application

– Look downward and apply the lash to the center of your lash line. Then, place and adjust as needed by placing the outer corner and then the inner corner.

NOTE: You can use an eyelash curler prior to putting your lashes on depending on your preference.

To Remove:

I. Removal

– Holding the strip lash at the outer edge, gently peel the lashes off pulling toward the inner corner of your eye. This is easier on the delicate skin around the eye as well as your lashes.

TIP: Be careful and don’t rip them off, or you risk damaging your natural lashes and putting yourself in a world of pain.

II. Storage

– Remove any glue remaining on the lashes so they’re ready to go for next time! Store in the lash tray in a cool, dry location.

NOTE: Pre-glued strip lashes are meant to be worn once, so they can be thrown out after removal. Using an oil-based makeup remover can help ease the removal of, what feels like to me, the lash cement.

HALF LASH

What they are:

Half-strip lashes are typically meant to go on the outer half of your lash line. Some beauty lovers like to use them to layer with a set of full-strip lashes for a more dramatic effect. (Yes, layering is a thing!)

Tip: Place these on your eyes before applying glue and look downwards into a mirror to see if they are sitting where you want them.

Comfort Level: 8/10

Definitely more comfortable than strips as they are easier to place and there's no chance of poking into the inner corner of the eye.

Faves:

Tatti Lashes in Butterfly Effect

Honestly - you can trim any lash to be a half lash!

To Apply:

I. Prep

– Unlike full strip lashes, you don’t need to check the length. So then, we just go right ahead and remove the lash from the tray, apply a thin single layer of glue, and place on the outer edge of lash line.

II. Glue & Application

– Apply a thin single layer of adhesive onto the lash band. Once the glue becomes tacky, it’s ready for placement.

III. Application

– Look downward and apply the half lash to the outer edge of your lash line.

To Remove:

I. Removal

– Holding the half lash at the outer edge, gently peel the lashes off, pulling back toward the inner corner of your eye.

II. Storage

– Clean off any remaining glue residue, and place back into the lash tray in a cool, dry location.

Tatti Lashes in 'Butterfly Effect'

INDIVIDUAL LASHES

What they are:

Individual lashes are available in either a singular lash or in a ‘fan-like’ style with multiple hairs.

Single lashes are individual hairs that you can apply to add thickness and length to your lash look. They’re applied with lash glue and a pair of tweezers one by one. While these can be tedious to apply, they often give the most natural-looking false lash look due to being able to be more precise. Individual eyelashes are perfect for day-to-day use or for anyone who prefers subtler false lashes.

Beware though - these lashes will test your patience like none of the other types can!

Tip: Single lashes are great for those wanting to experiment and get creative with lash layering.

Comfort Level: 9.5/10

By far the most comfortable lashes.

To Apply:

While you can apply single lashes yourself, if you want a full set, I recommend visiting a lash technician. However, if you want to apply only a few to flair out the outer edges of your eyes, then follow the same directions outlined below for cluster lashes.

To Remove:

Follow directions outlined below for cluster lashes.

CLUSTER LASHES

What they are:

Cluster eyelashes are exactly what they sound like—a bunch of singular false lashes that flare out from the base. These can be used to increase volume and length in specific areas, depending on the desired effect. Use these if you like to add a bit of fullness to your lashes without going as dramatic as a full strip lash.

Tip: There are two ways that these lashes can be worn. One is the same way you wear all the other lashes we've talked about, on top of the lash line. The second way - which requires a special glue (and remover) - is underneath the lashes. This looks really pretty and more natural. However, this method takes some practise to get right. It is very easy to apply too close to the eye and have it poke or scratch.

Comfort Level: 8/10

I find these to be about as comfortable as the half lashes but I've had a lot of clients prefer clusters over half lashes.

Faves:

Velour X-Tensions

Dark Swan of Denmark - any of their clusters

To Apply:

I. Prep

– Set up a working area with a mirror, a pair of tweezers, lash glue, and lashes.

II. Application

– Looking down into a mirror, start by applying the longer eyelashes on the outside and the shorter ones on the inside. Make sure to tuck the base of the new lashes into your lash line as firmly as you can before placing them on top of your existing lashes.

– The end of the lash should be dipped into the adhesive after applying a tiny amount to the lash tray. Permit to dry for 5 to 10 seconds.

III. Finishing Touches

– Use tweezers to adjust and reposition the lashes as necessary.

To Remove:

To remove eyelash clusters at home, there are three options:

I. Hot Shower

– By taking a hot shower, it can help to melt the glue making it easier to remove.

NOTE: Do not pull or attempt to pluck the lashes; this can cause damage.

II. Remove With Oil-Based Cleanser

– Apply the oil-based cleanser over the eyelashes and gently wipe it in a downward motion (I like to use a cotton pad to do this). If the lashes are stuck together, you can remove them with a cotton pad or spoolie.

II. Professional Grade Lash Remover

– Soak a cotton pad in the glue dissolver to apply it to the lashes and sweep in a downward motion to remove.

EYELASH EXTENSIONS

What they are:

Eyelash extensions are a long-term solution to waking up with your lashes ready to take on the day- everyday! Unlike strip and cluster lashes that are meant to last up to 24 hours, for your eyelash extensions, your lash technician uses a strong professional lash extension glue to attach a super fine synthetic lash strand to your natural eyelash. This is a painless procedure, but it does require the hands of a skilled lash technician.

Tip: Always try getting a set of extensions put on a couple months before, if you're wanting them for your wedding. Some people have strong reactions to the glue and that is not a look you want for your wedding day!

Keep in mind that most makeup artists don't like working around lash extensions because it's harder to access the lid to apply eyeshadow and liner. Plus extensions always get covered in shadow fallout that can land in your face makeup.

Comfort Level: 9.75/10

These are more comfortable than temporary lashes. They can easily get ruined by washing your face in the shower, sleeping with your face on the pillow or improper care (they have their own washing procedure that needs to be followed).

To Apply:

Visit your preferred lash technician.

To Remove:

I have gone through trying to take them off myself. I highly recommend NOT doing what I did, but instead, go back to your lash technician for removal or to have your lashes refilled. Valuable lash lives were lost for me...

Do’s & Don’t(s) of Extensions:

DON'T

• If you don’t follow post-lash care, you run the risk of excessively shedding lashes and experiencing breakage.

• Avoid any steam and water running over your lashes for the 48 hours after install.

• Avoid rubbing your eyes, applying oil-based products and heavy creams near and around the eye area.

• Also, avoid playing with and picking at your lashes, over-brushing, waterproof mascaras, and shower head with excessive force.

• AND DON’T use an eyelash curler!

DO

• Be gentle with them, and apply a protective coating 48 hours after the application.

• Use silk or satin pillowcases as cotton can cause drying and snagging (your skin and hair will also thank you).

OTHER TIPS

• False eyelashes are easy to apply and remove, but it is important to follow the instructions or recommendations of your lash technician to ensure you avoid damage to the natural lashes and eye area.

• Make sure you apply lashes at the same angle to get the same effect for both eyes.

• There is latex and non-latex lash glue; make sure you're buying the right one for you!

• Don't forget to have fun! Fake lashes can help you create the perfect look for any occasion.