ComScore

Apparently, We've Been Applying False Lashes Wrong This Entire Time

As evidenced by my various quarantine experiments with drawing on fake lashes and testing semi-permanent strips, I really miss having lash extensions. So, until it's safe to get them again, I have been trying every lash product and tip I have come across in my Internet travels.

The latest tip involves good ol’ fashioned strip lashes (like the kind you may have worn to Prom or someone’s wedding). Historically, I have never liked these lashes because they’re a pain to apply and they just didn’t sit right on my eyelids.

Well, apparently, where I went wrong was the lash glue.

the right to apply fake lashes 1
Jenny Jin for PureWow

Rather than apply it along the inner rim of the band (like I always did), you’re better off putting the glue on top of the strip, as shown above.

This small tweak in the placement of your glue will help keep your faux lashes from drooping downward and weighing down your lids. Instead, it coaxes the lashes to sit at a more upright angle, so you get an eye-opening effect.

the right to apply fake lashes 2
Jenny Jin for PureWow

Here I am with one eye done (awkwardly posing in the corridor and silently praying that my dad won’t walk out mid-photos).

On the topic of glue, how much glue you use and how long you let it dry before placing the strips on your eyelids matter, too. You always want to paint a thin line of glue along the top of the band and let it sit for 30 seconds, so it gets slightly tacky but is no longer wet.

Tacky, in this scenario, is good.

the right to apply fake lashes category
Jenny Jin for PureWow

And here we have both eyes done, trying my darndest not to blink.

Extra credit tip if you’re going anywhere outside of Zoom: Grab your eyeliner (we prefer liquid here) and draw a line from the inner corners to the outer corners of your eyes to blend in where the band of your strip lashes meet your eyelids.

In sharing this, I’m realizing that I probably should have done this myself before taking a photo. Alas, this is like when you wear a presentable top and rumpled pajama bottoms for your video calls. We’re all trying our best here.

Get the tools: Duo Eyelash Adhesive ($9); Loveseen Lashes in “Axel” ($22); Velour Lashes Effortless No Trim Natural Lash Collection ($26); Loveseen The Lash Tool ($34)



Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

  • Oversees all beauty content at PureWow
  • Has over a decade of experience in writing and editing, both in print and digital media
  • Produces 'Youngish' newsletter, a guide to beauty in your 30s and beyond