We all know that long eyelashes can transform any makeup look from simple to glamorous and that there are limited options to achieve this: multiple layers of mascara, false eyelashes, or eyelash extensions.

But they aren’t always enough — the first is time-consuming and not always effective if you have thick strands; extensions can be expensive; false lashes can be messy and irritating to the eyes. Although you don’t have to be a makeup artist to apply them, it can often feel like you need to be an expert to do it.

Enter: magnetic eyelashes. If lash glue is your problem (as in you can’t get your false lashes to stick properly and you get a wonky-looking eye an hour later), then using magnetic lashes can help fix your problem and add a little oomph to your natural lashes, too. 

Keep reading to find out what exactly magnetic lashes are and how you can apply them.

What are magnetic eyelashes?

Magnetic eyelashes are a form of false eyelashes that contain tiny magnets along the lash line. When they were first introduced, magnetic lashes consisted of two magnetic strips that you would place above and underneath your upper lash line, wedging the eyelashes in between the two magnets. 

This seems odd at first, but magnetic lashes offer a mess-free, non-irritating alternative to most fake lash products. The idea is to remove glue from the equation, thereby cutting the time spent on applying said products and eliminating errors as well as keeping your eyes safe from harmful chemicals that may be present in lash glue. So they’re a really great alternative to regular fake lashes for a number of reasons. 

Since their conception, magnetic lashes have evolved from the two-strip design. The other most common variant is one that uses magnetic eyeliner technology to attract the lash strip onto your lash line. Instead of having two strips to put on either side of your upper lash line, all you have to do is apply a layer of magnetic eyeliner where you would normally apply glue.

This article focuses mainly on those two types of magnetic lashes, so stick around if you want to learn how to apply them properly!

Do you need glue for magnetic lashes?

No, magnetic lashes do not require adhesives as they make use of magnets that hold the falsies to your eyelids.

Do these lashes hurt?

At first, it may seem like the magnet strips could pinch your skin, but this is actually nearly impossible. Even if you accidentally place a magnetic lash a little farther from your desired area, it won’t stick into place.

How do you use magnetic fake eyelashes for beginners?

We all want beautiful voluminous lashes, but sometimes our glue, fingers, or tweezers just won’t cooperate. That’s where magnetic lashes come in, and they’re lifesavers if you want to keep your lashes long without going full struggle mode.

Below, we teach you how to apply magnetic lashes in 5 easy steps:

How to Apply Magnetic Lashes

Step 1: Find the Right Kind of Lashes

Just like any other fake eyelash product, magnetic lashes come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and styles. Finding the right one for your eye shape is vital. The good news is if you already know the right style for you, then just go ahead and buy those. But if not, no worries — you can try on different types of magnetic lashes to find what works for you.

Step 2: Apply Mascara on Your Natural Lashes 

This step is a little controversial, but we believe in applying mascara and curling before putting on your lashes. Personally, I think the best way to go about it is curling before and after application, but your preferences may differ.

Prepping your (real) eyelashes first helps elongate them naturally, thus making the end result a lot more seamless and smooth. You wouldn’t want your natural lashes to stick out underneath.

Apply mascara as you normally would, then use an eyelash curler to help open up your natural eyelashes. You can also apply a coat of mascara on your lower lash if preferred.

Step 3: Customize Your Lashes

If you want to be more particular about the final makeup look, you may want to trim your fake eyelashes. Because our eyes are all so different, it’s normal to buy a pair of lashes that aren’t 100% flush with the length of your eyes. You may also find that the strands are a little too long than what you prefer — don’t be afraid to trim them down. This will help you create a more suitable product.

Step 4 for Traditional Lashes: Application

Remember how there are two kinds of magnetic lashes? If you’re using one that has two strips, then continue on to this step. For the other kind — the one with magnetic eyeliner — skip this and move to the next step.

Applying magnetic lashes won’t be without a learning curve, but it’s infinitely easier and less error-prone than your regular lashes. 

How to apply magnetic lashes using your fingers

Gently place the top lash strip as close to your natural lash line as possible. Do the same for the bottom strip, angling it right under the top magnetic lash band. Voila! You should hear the magnet click, and you’re done. You can also use tweezers for this step if you’re more comfortable. Repeat the process for the bottom lashes (if needed) and the other eye.

Unlike regular false lashes, you don’t have to use the tips of your nails or angle your product perfectly — the magnets make the whole process much simpler.

How to apply magnetic lashes with an applicator

If your product comes with its own lash applicator, simply take the top lash and attach it to the top claw. Place the bottom lash on the bottom end. Bring the applicator as close to your natural lash line as possible and press down to apply. Once more, you should feel one strip click onto the other.

Step 4 for Magnetic Eyeliner: Apply the Liner On Your Lash Line

If you’re using magnetic falsies that require a liner, this step is for you. Using the brush, gently create a line starting from your inner corner all the way out. Be generous with your coating, because this is how the lash strip will stick to your skin. Make sure to match the stroke width with the size of your lash strip.

Creator of Glamnetic Lashes Ann McFerran shares a great tip for applying liner effectively:

“Start on the inner corner lash line and use a stamping motion to touch and pull until [you] get to the edge of the outer corner. Once done, go back and make the eyeliner as thick as the magnets.” By matching your eyeliner stroke width with your lash strip size, you’ll be able to apply magnetic eyelashes easily.

Step 5: Attach

Wait about 20 seconds for the eyeliner to dry. Then, after a few seconds, gently place the lashes along the liner. You can use your fingertips or nails to pat the strip into place.

Removing Magnetic Lashes

Whether you have long lashes or doll-eye falsies, removing them is uncomplicated. Simply pull on one end using your fingertips or nails to detach the magnets, and you’re done.

You can then use an eye makeup remover or an oil-based cleanser to delicately clean up any makeup residue left on your real lashes and around your eyes.

Final Note

In the beauty world, the longer the lashes, the better. We hope this blog has given you a nudge in the right direction so you can fulfill your beauty goals. 

For more tips on all things makeup, beauty, and skincare, be sure to browse our website.