Eyes: the window to the soul! What better to dress this window than beautiful, voluminous lashes! Unfortunately, not all of us were blessed with perfect eyelashes. And if you were, you may notice them diminishing over time. Whether it’s for a super special occasion or a daily confidence boost, “falsies” are quickly becoming a standard addition to the beauty routine. Not to be confused with the semi-permanent service performed by an aesthetician called eyelash extensions, false lashes are a temporary (as in to be removed within 24 hours) tool to elevate your eye look. Here are some pro tips on choosing the right type of false lashes for your eyes!
Finding False Lashes
The market for false lashes has been a fast-growing one; there are so many brands and so many places to purchase them. However, they often look different in the box than they do on your eye. So how do you go about deciding which ones will best suit you?
First you must know that there are a few different types of false lashes:
Full strip lashes are the most common and take the least time for most people to apply. Lashes lay on one strip to be adhered to the eye. The downside is that they can look artificial, depending on the band.
Demi strip lashes lay on a shorter band and usually cover only the outer half of the eye – often making them more natural looking, more comfortable and easier for the user to apply.
Individual lashes can come as singles or as flares AKA clusters. These are the most comfortable form of false lashes for most people, but take the most time to put on. They can afford you more customization and are the most common used among professional makeup artists.
Within these types of false lashes are differing lengths and styles such as natural, wispy, voluminous, lengthening, dramatic, etc. Part of choosing your right lash is choosing the style you want to go for – classic and natural, sultry and dramatic, wispy and romantic, professional and so on.
Now let’s get into YOUR eyes and what might be best suited to you.
1. Full Strip Lashes (Natural, Lightweight, Wispy)
If you are a complete beginner to “falsies”, the more natural-looking and lightweight, the better. If your lashes are extra sparse, you may search for a natural pair that crisscross, since our lashes naturally do not grow perfectly straight, but in varying directions. Choosing something that isn’t dramatic is great for small or petite eyes so as not to overwhelm them. Those with overly prominent eyes should also look for natural, full strip lashes so as to soften and reduce the definition of the eyes.
2. Full Strip Lashes (Lengthening, Dramatic, Voluminous)
If you have deep set or hooded eyes, choosing a pair of lashes that are more lengthening and dramatic can bring your eyes forward and open them up. If you have average to large eyes or wide-set eyes, you can handle a more dramatic full strip that will add volume and still be flattering.
3. Demi Strip Lashes
“Half lashes” are perfect for overly downturned or upturned eyes. The winged-out effect gives a lift to the corners and accentuates the beautiful sweep of the eye. They are also most complimentary to close set eyes or rounded eyes as they keep the inner corner open and help elongate the eye’s shape.
4. Individual Lashes
Individual lashes (particularly knotted flare trios) are my personal favorite and are by far the most comfortable. They are also perfect for any eye shape because you can easily customize a more natural look by filling gaps or a more dramatic look by building layers. The downside? You will need patience. And an extra five minutes. Or more.
You are now equipped with all the information you need to find the perfect pair of lashes that best compliment your eye shape, level of experience and personal style! As a makeup artist, my biggest tip to clients that ask about false lashes is to have no fear. They are temporary and, with the right style and the right application, can be completely comfortable! Look out for my next post on Mastering the Art of Applying False Lashes!
