Fake lashes can completely transform your makeup look, but if you’ve ever struggled with lashes lifting at the corners, sitting too high, or refusing to stick, you are definitely not alone.
The good news? Applying false eyelashes gets much easier once you know the right technique.
Whether you’re getting ready for Carnival, a night out, a special event, or just want a little extra glam, this simple Makeup Land guide will show you how to apply fake lashes like a pro.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather a few essentials:
- Your favorite pair of false eyelashes
- Lash adhesive
- Small scissors
- Tweezers or a lash applicator
- Eyeliner
- Mascara
- A mirror
Step 1: Finish Your Eye Makeup First
Apply your eyeshadow and eyeliner before putting on your lashes.
A thin line of black or brown eyeliner along the upper lash line can help hide the false lash band and create a smoother, more natural-looking finish.
You can also apply a light coat of mascara to your natural lashes before adding your falsies.
Step 2: Measure the Lash
Never assume the lash strip will fit your eye perfectly straight out of the package.
Gently remove the lash from the tray and place it along your natural lash line without glue.
Check where the lash extends beyond the outer corner of your eye.
Step 3: Trim the Lash
If it is too long, trim a small amount from the outer edge of the lash.
Trim a little at a time. You can always remove more, but you cannot put it back once it has been cut.
Step 4: Apply the Lash Glue
Apply a thin, even layer of lash adhesive along the lash band.
Add just a tiny extra amount of glue to the inner and outer corners because these areas are most likely to lift.
Now comes one of the most important steps:
Do not apply the lash immediately.
Wait approximately 20–30 seconds, or until the glue becomes slightly tacky.
When the glue is too wet, the lash can slide around and become much harder to position.
Step 4: Apply the Lash
Instead of holding your mirror directly in front of your face, position it slightly below eye level.
Look down into the mirror while keeping your eyes partially open.
This gives you a better view of your natural lash line and makes it easier to place the false lash exactly where you want it.
Using tweezers, a lash applicator, or your fingers, gently place the center of the false lash as close to your natural lash line as possible.
Do not place the strip directly on your natural eyelashes.
Once the center is secure, gently position the outer corner, followed by the inner corner.
Press the lash band down carefully until it feels secure.
Once the adhesive has dried, gently press your natural lashes and false lashes together.
This helps everything blend into one seamless lash line.
If necessary, apply another very light coat of mascara.
For some lash styles, you may not need additional mascara at all.
If you can still see portions of the lash band or dried adhesive, use eyeliner to carefully go over the upper lash line.
This creates a polished, professional-looking finish.
And just like that—your lashes are on!
Common Fake Lash Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using Too Much Glue
More glue does not automatically mean better hold.
Too much adhesive can become messy, take longer to dry, and make your lashes harder to position.
- Applying the Lash While the Glue Is Wet
Give your lash adhesive time to become tacky before placing the lash.
This one small step can make application dramatically easier.
- Placing the Lash Too Far Above Your Natural Lash Line
The closer the strip sits to your natural lashes, the more realistic and seamless your finished look will appear.
- Forgetting to Trim the Lash
If the lash band is too long for your eye, it can poke your inner corner, lift throughout the day, and feel uncomfortable.
- Cutting the Inner Corner
When shortening strip lashes, trim from the outer edge whenever possible. Cutting from the inner corner can alter the lash design and make the style look unnatural.
How to Remove Fake Lashes Safely:
At the end of the day, resist the temptation to simply pull your lashes off.
Gently loosen the adhesive using makeup remover or an oil-based cleanser around the lash line.
Starting at the outer corner, slowly peel the lash away.
Be gentle so you do not unnecessarily pull on your natural eyelashes.
Reusing Fake Lash:
Many strip lashes can be worn more than once when they are properly cleaned and stored.
After removing your lashes:
- Carefully remove leftover adhesive from the lash band.
- Clean away excess makeup if necessary.
- Allow the lashes to dry completely.
- Place them back into their original lash tray.
Keeping the lash curved inside its tray also helps maintain its shape.
Beginner Tip: Practice Before the Big Event:
If you are planning to wear lashes for Carnival, a wedding, graduation, birthday, date night, or another special occasion, practice applying them beforehand.
Your first application may take a few tries—and that is completely normal.
Once you understand your eye shape, lash placement, and how long your adhesive needs to become tacky, the entire process becomes much faster.
Find Your Perfect Lash at Makeup Land
Whether you love soft and natural lashes or bold, dramatic glam, the right pair can instantly elevate your makeup look.
At Makeup Land Beauty, we believe makeup should be fun, expressive, and easy to experiment with.
Choose your favorite lash style, grab your beauty essentials, and create a look that makes you feel confident.
Ready for your next lash look? Shop Makeup Land Beauty and find the perfect finishing touch for your glam.