Most Hollywood stars rely on false lashes to make their eyes look extra big and glamorous on the red carpet. Some have even admitted to wearing up to four layers at one time!  False eyelashes are a super fun way to take your look from everyday casual to Va-Va-Voom in just a few minutes.  Check your social calendar for any weddings or special events. There will be lots of photo ops and your fake fringe will photograph beautifully.  With a little practice and a dose of patience, you’ll be able to go faux like a pro.  Here are some easy steps that anyone can follow.

Step One: Curl & Coat

It is very important to gently curl your natural lashes before applying the fake eyelashes.  Follow this with a coat of mascara ensuring that every lash, from the inner and outer corner, is covered.  The goal is to make both (natural and fake) lashes look like they are one. Lining your eyes at this time is also a good idea.  Think of it as a guide on where to apply your lashes.

Step Two: Glue it, girl!

Apply a tiny bead to the center of the lash line and spread it across using the tip of the glue tube.  This ensures an even layer of glue. You’ll need to wait about 20 seconds before applying to allow for the glue to get “tacky”.  If you apply the lashes while the glue is still fresh, they will slip and slide making it difficult to manipulate.  While you’re waiting, you should “roll” your lashes. Grab at each corner and roll them so they fit your eye properly.  Otherwise, the corners can pop off.

Step Three: It’s show time!

Tilt your chin upwards, and position the strip in the center of your lash line. Once the glue catches, lightly push down the inner and outer corners.  To really press lashes in and ensure they are secured, use the back end of one of your makeup brushes and gently press into the lashes. Blink a few times to ensure the lashes feel comfortable and secure.  Allow for the glue to dry completely. Roughly 30 – 60 seconds.

Step Four: The final coat

Once the glue is completely dry, add one final coat of mascara to make sure that both your naturals and the falsies are blended together nicely.  Voila!  You’re red carpet ready!

Bonus tips:

*Don’t rush your false lash application.  You don’t want them popping off at an inopportune moment.  Be sure to take your time.  Remember, practice makes perfect.

* To get lashes out of packaging, place your thumb over the lashes, add a bit of pressure and slide them out carefully.  This is preferred over tweezers, which can dent or misshape the lashes.

*False lashes can be trimmed to fit your eyes if necessary.  Simply place lashes sans glue to where you think the lash will be.  Trim off any excess.

* To remove, gently rub an oil-based eye-makeup remover over your lashes, and off they come.

Clara Isabella is a featured Fashion & Beauty contributor and a well known makeup artist who has been featured on Refinery29 and Touchpuppet, as well as on NBC’s Thread | NY. For more about her click here for her full bio and all of her articles! read more →