Strip lashes can open your eyes, lift them or add a dramatic flick, but the wrong style can make eyes look heavy or smaller. The secret is putting length where your eye shape needs it. Here's how I choose.
Match the lash to your eye shape
- Almond eyes: Almost any style works, from natural to dramatic. Choose for the look you want rather than the shape.
- Hooded eyes: Choose lightweight, flexible bands with fluttery fibers. Extra length at the center, or a gentle lift toward the outer third, opens the eye. Very thick, heavy lashes can press against the lid and hide it.
- Monolids: Curl your natural lashes first, then choose wispy, slightly angled lashes with length that lifts outward. Dense, flat lashes can overwhelm.
- Round eyes: Look for lashes that are shorter at the inner corner and longer at the outer corner. This stretches the eye into a more almond, cat-eye shape.
- Downturned eyes: Choose length from the center to the outer edge that sweeps upward, and place the outer end slightly lifted rather than following the downward slope.
- Deep-set eyes: Lighter, fluffier lashes with length in the middle bring the eye forward.
- Close-set eyes: Length concentrated at the outer corners creates the look of more space between the eyes.
- Wide-set eyes: A fuller lash all the way across, including the inner corners, balances the distance.
Size the band before you glue
Lay the lash along your lash line before adding glue. Most lashes need a trim. Cut from the outer end, never the inner end, so you keep the designed shape. The band should start a little past your inner corner, not touching it, and end where your natural lashes end.
Apply safely
- Patch-test your adhesive on your inner arm before using it near your eyes. If you're sensitive to latex, look for a latex-free formula.
- Use a thin line of glue along the band and wait until it turns tacky, about 30 seconds, before placing.
- Keep glue off the waterline and out of the eye.
- Never sleep in strip lashes, and never share them.
- Remove gently. Soften the band with an oil-based remover on a cotton swab, then peel from the outer corner. Never yank.
- Care for reusable lashes by lifting off old glue carefully and storing them in their case so they hold their shape.
If your eyes become red, itchy or swollen after wearing lashes or adhesive, remove them, and see a doctor if the irritation doesn't settle.
Half lashes: the easy option
If full strips feel heavy, try half lashes on the outer third only. They add lift and shape with less weight, and they're very forgiving to apply.
Lashes are included with every makeup service I offer, and I'll choose a style for your eye shape and your look. Book your appointment.
Wendy Nicole is a makeup and hair artist in New Jersey with more than ten years behind the chair. About Wendy
