15 Best False Eyelashes That Will Transform Your Look
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Nothing compares to the transformative abilities of a quality pair of false eyelashes. Whether you’re someone who typically only uses one coat of mascara or loves to go all out with a bold liner and smoky eye, these reusable game-changers accentuate your eyes by adding flattering dimension and volume that, in turn, elongate your natural eye shape. But not all faux lashes are created equally, nor will every pair properly emphasize every eye shape or meet your criteria of what a pair of falsies should (and should not) do. That’s where we come in.
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When selecting a pair of false eyelashes, it’s essential that you first determine the eye look that you’re trying to achieve, beyond which eyeshadow palette you’re reaching for that day. If you’re after something that looks natural-yet-elevated, give your eyelash curler a break and instead reach for a set of wispies that offers a lightweight feathery-flutter. But, if you’re looking to make a statement with your lashes — to elongate them in a matter of seconds versus months with the help of a lash growth serum — opting for falsies with thicker strands, strategic layerings and varying lengths over a few swipes of mascara can help deliver even more of that dramatic flair.
Of course, the eye looks you desire will probably have something to do with the latest eyelash trends. Heading into the new year, founder of AJ Crimson Beauty AJ Crimson expects to see creative lash shapes popping up on our social feeds, with a focus on height in the center and outer corners of the lash to open, lift and elongate. “There has been a ‘more is not enough’ attitude to that, and I don’t see it going away anytime soon,” he tells WWD. Still, he’s also hoping for a return of natural-looking lashes.
Top False Eyelashes
Best Overall: Velour Lashes Effortless Natural Lash – Would I Lie?
Best Overall Runner-Up: House of Lashes Iconic Lite Fake Lashes
Best Variety: Eliace False Eyelashes
Best Drugstore False Eyelashes: Kiss Lash Couture Triple Push-Up Lashes – Teddy
Best Fake Eyelashes for Every Occasion: Eylure False Eyelashes – Lengthening No. 152
Best Natural-Looking False Eyelashes: Mac Cosmetics Mac Lash – 33 Ingenue Lash
Best False Eyelashes for Everyday Wear: Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina False Lashes
Best Fake Eyelashes for Various Eye Shapes: Lilly Lashes Lite Faux Mink Lashes
Best Value: Veleasha Lashes Faux Mink Lashes
Best Individuals: Ardell Faux Mink Individuals
The different types of false eyelashes
The next step is to familiarize yourself with the different types of false eyelashes that are on the market, starting with the materials they’re made from. According to celebrity makeup artist and brand founder, Jenny Patinkin, there are two main types of false lashes: Natural lashes, which are made from either squirrel or mink hair, and synthetic lashes, which are made with plastic fibers. “Natural lashes look very delicate and feel lightweight, [but] they’re obviously not a good choice for anyone who prefers vegan beauty products or for anyone on a tighter budget,” Patinkin tells WWD. Synthetic options, Patinkin adds, have varying quality. “Some have too much shine and can look plasticky, and some are too thick and feel heavy on the lash line.”
And in terms of which type of false eyelashes makeup artists feel are the best, the choice is as personal and individual as deciding on the best skin or hair-care products. Each offers its own look and feel, and the materials also play a role in how much the false lashes will cost you.
Patinkin says she’ll generally opt for synthetic lashes “that are on a flexible, thin strip or that come in small clusters.” Meanwhile, Crimson favors mink. “Mink is a favorite of mine when harvested in a cruelty-free way,” the makeup artist tells WWD. “They are soft and fluffy but can be expensive per pair, and the band always seems to be heavy. At the same time, the way lashes have been applied in recent years doesn’t seem to pose an issue for the girl who is a pro at her lashes.”
False eyelashes also come in different lengths and cuts; you can even purchase individual lashes rather than a full strip.
Strips
False eyelash strips are full sets of lashes. They’re horizontal bands that extend along the entire lash line and adhere with an adhesive, like lash glue.
Who they’re for: If you know the specific look you want to achieve, Patinkin says strip lashes are “a simple one-step way to get it” as shape and density are built into the style.
Individual Lashes and Clusters
Individual lashes are, as their name would suggest, individual wisps designed to add definition, fullness and length to specific areas of your natural eyelashes. Another alternative to a full strip, clusters of false lashes are small bunches of lashes that, like individual wisps, can help transform the look of your natural lashes by catering to a specific area along the lash line.
Who they’re for: According to Patinkin, clusters and individual lashes are the best options for anyone who wants a more natural look, “because you can control the shape and density better, particularly if you want to just accentuate the outer corner,” she says. “They’re also particularly good for deep-set eyes where strip placement can be tricky.”
Extensions
You can apply your eyelash extensions at home or visit a salon to have a technician do them for you. Unlike other faux lashes that are generally meant to be worn for a few hours, eyelash extensions are glued to your top lashes and are semi-permanent, lasting up to two months with proper care.
Who they’re for: Anyone who wants faux lashes, but a low-maintenance care plan.
Magnetic Lashes
Fake eyelashes (strips, individuals, clusters and fantasy) that adhere to the lid via magnetically charged eyeliner or sandwiched over natural lashes.
Who they’re for: Anyone who struggles to apply traditional faux lashes, those with sensitive skin or a glue allergy. Just keep in mind, “there is a learning curve with figuring out how best to attach them,” Patinkin warns.
Are false eyelashes safe to use?
It’s also important to be made aware of the potential health risks of using faux lashes before purchasing your own pair. Generally speaking, fake eyelashes are safe to use in moderation, but celebrity optometrist and founder of Line of Sight Dr. Jennifer Tsai tells WWD that, “over usage, incorrect application or poor hygiene can lead to lash loss, blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction and an allergic reaction.”
Using lash glue is also not without risks, so it’s important to perform a small patch test on the skin to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis. Tsai warns it’s also crucial to clean between the lash extensions thoroughly. “Some great cleaning products include micellar water and tea tree oil on a Q-tip or cotton pad,” she says.
Read on to explore the 15 best false eyelashes that will help transform your makeup and deliver bold, beautiful lash looks.
Velour Lashes Effortless Natural Lash – Would I Lie?
Best Overall
Featuring a naturally-flared and crisscross silhouette, Velour Lashes’ Would I Lie? fake eyelashes provide a hint of extra volume and dimension with their versatile look. These reusable lashes can be worn up to 20 times per pair with proper care and are designed to not require trimming or measuring. Simply apply glue along the fake eyelashes’ cotton-thread bands and go. Sephora reviewers have named Velour one of the best fake eyelash brands on the market, calling its offerings user-friendly and comfortable to wear. They warn, however, that while you can technically use any lash glue to apply the brand’s wispies, it’s recommended that you stick with Velour’s adhesive formula for best results.
House of Lashes Iconic Lite Fake Lashes
Best Overall Runner-Up
House of Lashes has a loyal following, and its Iconic Lite false lashes are considered some of the best on the market. Created to deliver show-stopping drama while still offering a comfortable feel, these false lashes (a wispier version of the brand’s OG Iconic falsies) feature a thinner band to give off a more everyday look. They have a dynamic V-formation effect and criss-cross pattern design to add dimension and length to the eyes. And as if their impressive finish wasn’t enough of a selling point, each pair is handcrafted and estimated to last for more than 15 wears. They’re also made of synthetic fibers and 100% vegan-friendly, so everyone can indulge in these luxury lashes.
Ardell Lash Demi Wispies
Designed to accentuate the eyes with their feathery-flared shape, these reusable false lashes from Ardell feature criss-cross lash strands that create an amplified-yet-subtle finish. The pack contains five pairs of falsies, designed to offer users natural-looking volume for a “your-eyes-but-better” aesthetic over and over again. The fibers are shorter than the more dramatic pairs you’ll find on the market, so they’re perfect for daytime wear and anyone without the patience to measure and cut before application. Reviewers rave Ardell’s Demi Wispies are incredibly easy to apply and are decent enough quality to reuse. However, this multipack does not include lash glue or an applicator tool, so you’ll have to purchase these items separately.
Eliace False Eyelashes
Best Variety
Eliace’s false eyelash kit is stocked with almost everything novice and pro lash wearers need to elevate their eye looks on any occasion. The set includes 50 different false lashes in five different styles, plus a pair of professional eyelash tweezers for application made easy. Note: Scissors for trimming and glue for adhering are sold separately. The lashes are made with thin, synthetic fiber materials, but just because they aren’t made from real hair doesn’t mean they’re any less durable. In fact, each pair, though soft and comfortable, can be worn up to 10 times with proper care. According to customer reviews, the only major downside of these faux lashes is their lack of volume, but that can be changed with a few strokes of a spoolie brush.
Kiss Lash Couture Triple Push-Up Lashes – Teddy
Best Drugstore
When it comes to affordability and accessibility, Kiss is one of the best fake eyelash brands by far. Its Teddy Lashes are a fan favorite, with just shy of an average five-star rating on Amazon to prove it. With the brand’s Triple Design technology in tow, these false lashes offer three lash designs in one strip, creating dimensional lift and a high-impact effect. The Teddy style also elongates and dramatically thickens the eyes with its lengthy lashes at the center and crisscross dimension detailing. The pair is reusable, but keep in mind adhesive is sold separately.
Tarte Tarteist Pro Cruelty-Free Lashes – Girl Boss
If you thought Tarte only specialized in concealer and blush, think again. Crafted with a comfort-fit cotton strip, these fan-favorite false eyelashes provide dramatic length and layered dimension for a fuller, thicker lash look. Their flexible band adheres to your unique eye shape and disappears into the lash line for weightless wear. They’re also made from vegan fibers and are latex- and cruelty-free. Plus, Tarte’s Pro lash adhesive (sold separately) is also formulated without parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, triclosan, gluten or sodium lauryl sulfate. In other words, both products are safe to wear for all users.
Eylure False Eyelashes – Lengthening No. 152
Best Fake Eyelashes for Every Occasion
Eylure took the phrase “hot mess” and harnessed that energy into a sleek faux lash. The cruelty-free pair has been designed so that its fluttery layers offer a unique “messed up” finish, adding natural layers of volume and thickness to your natural lashes. In addition to ranking high on this list for originality, Eylure’s are one of the best fake eyelashes because they’re versatile. They’re classic enough for everyday wear but can be easily dressed up with some extra mascara and liner for fancier occasions. Plus, the falsies are reusable and your purchase comes with adhesive. For under $10, these are quite the steal.
Mac Cosmetics Mac Lash – 33 Ingenue Lash
Best Natural-Looking False Eyelashes
Mac knows how to deliver drama, especially in the false lash category. The brand’s Ingenue false eyelashes are made to give you that flirty girl-next-door flutter (they’re innocent, but “with a wink,” reads the product description.) Handmade to exact specifications, the lashes are shaped in banded clusters and can be reused up to 20 times if cared for properly. Featuring a customizable fit, they can be trimmed and reshaped to fit your eye shape and length for perfect results. And while this pair does not come with adhesive, according to Mac’s website, the lashes go on seamlessly with its Duo formula.
Huda Beauty Classic False Eyelashes
Huda Kattan is a self-made makeup artist and phenomenon, so adding a pair of her cult-favorite fake eyelashes to this list was a given (for reference, they have over 168,000 “loves” on Sephora alone). Her Classic lashes have been a particular hit. Designed to offer high volume and dramatic length, these durable falsies accentuate any eye shape and can be worn up to 15 times. They’re made with synthetic mellow fibers that look bold enough without adding on mascara. They also boast a cotton band for optimal comfort throughout each wear.
Lola’s Lashes Ruby Strip False Eyelashes
When fake eyelashes guarantee a minimum of 30 wears with the proper care and maintenance, they definitely deserve your attention. These false eyelashes from Lola’s Lashes create statement eye looks with their bold, layered and feathered-out design. Though not magnetic, the lashes adhere to the brand’s Flick & Stick adhesive formula that goes on like an eyeliner. They can also be applied using lash glue, but the pen does work like magic. What’s more, the lashes are made with high-quality synthetic silk, offering a comfortable, weightless feel. Removal is also simple with micellar water or cleansing oil.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina False Lashes
Best False Eyelashes for Everyday Wear
Anastasia Soare is undoubtedly the queen of brows, but the makeup artist’s collection of lashes (named after her daughter) also reigns in its respective category. There are several styles to choose from the line, ranging from sophisticated and natural to rock-star-level glam. The lash band is flexible and can be trimmed to better fit your unique eye shape, and reviewers rave these are some of the softest lashes they’ve ever worn. What’s more, each pair is certifiably vegan and comes packaged in recycled materials. Though the set does not come with adhesive glue, the quality lashes are pretty affordable at $12.
Lilly Lashes Lite Faux Mink Lashes
Best Fake Eyelashes for Various Eye Shapes
Though you may not infer this from their name, these faux lashes are 100% vegan. Made from synthetic fibers that are also 100% waterproof, Lilly Lashes faux mink wisps are said to last about 15 wears, but one reviewer on Sephora.com said they were able to use one pair 30 times when “washed right and taken care of.” It’s this level of quality and reusability that fans say makes the faux lashes well worth the cost. What’s more, there are four styles in this collection — three round and one flare — each complementing a different eye shape.
Veleasha Lashes Faux Mink Lashes
Best Value
Veleasha Lashes is one of the best fake eyelash brands on Amazon to date. With over 22,000 reviews and an average 4.4-star rating, its pack of seven pairs for under $10 is a steal, and one fans say isn’t to be missed. Created with imported synthetic fiber and made by hand, these vegan-friendly and cruelty-free lashes feature a thick, flexible cotton band that not only ensures easy application but also comfortable wear. You can choose from over 10 different packages, each containing seven pairs of a specific style. From fluffy and dramatic to flirty and natural, there’s a style for every eye shape and desired eye look. Each pair can also last for up to 10 wears with proper care and storage, meaning for under $10, you could score up to 70 wears per package.
KVD Beauty Go Big or Go Home False Lashes & Glue
For anyone who’s a fan of KVD Beauty’s Go Big or Go Home mascara, there’s a faux lash for you. The Go Big or Go Home false lashes and glue duo comes in three styles: Dramatic Volume (double layered), Natural Volume (pretty and wispy) and Full Volume (fluttery and full of body). Every pair is vegan and cruelty-free, made from synthetic materials that feel just as soft and luxurious as real animal hair. They’re designed with a flexible, lightweight band that can be easily trimmed to accommodate your unique lids and lashes and are rounded at the edges to eliminate the chance of poking or scraping. The mini adhesive glue is also formulated without latex, so sensitive skin types can feel comfortable wearing these pairs, too.
Ardell Faux Mink Individuals
Best Individuals
If you prefer individual lashes to full strips or clusters, here’s an option. Patinkin tells WWD she keeps Ardell’s faux mink individuals in her kit at all times. Not unlike the brand’s aforementioned wispies, “they’re very lightweight, look natural and are so well priced,” Patinkin says. “You can get them in a lot of drugstores as well,” she adds, “which is super convenient.”
How to apply false eyelashes
Step 1: It’s always helpful to have a clear understanding (and visual!) of your materials. Before applying your lashes, Crimson suggests removing your wispies from their tray, as well as any glue, and “laying the lash on the lid from the inner corner to the outer corner.”
Step 2: Measure and cut (if needed). “This is important because sometimes the lash band is longer than the width of the eyes,” Crimson says. “It’s perfectly okay to cut to the appropriate length for your eye shape.”
Step 3: Add a thin but generous line of lash glue to the band, and wait for it to dry. “My favorite is black Duo because it dries black and adds depth to the lash line without eyeliner for a more natural look,” Crimson tells WWD. “After you have added the glue, the first appearance may look light gray, then as it dries, it turns a darker gray to black. In the middle (it should look medium gray); this is the time to apply to the lash line.”
Step 4: Apply your lashes. If you have shaky hands or are a beginner, Patinkin suggests using some kind of applicator tool. “Start at the center, then place the inner corner and move on to the outer corner,” Crimson instructs. “On the outer corner, make sure the lash is applied going up. This adds lift to the eye, especially if you have a sleepy eye shape. Using your tool, pinch the lashes together for a seamless look.”
Step 5: Once dry, add mascara and you’re ready to go.
How to remove false eyelashes
Removing fake eyelashes is seemingly easier than applying them. According to Patinkin, clusters and individual false lashes “pop off really easily” if you use makeup remover. As for strips, the makeup artist advises using an oil or balm cleanser, “because it softens the bond of the glue and puts less tension on your natural lashes and delicate lid skin.”
How to clean false eyelashes
Of course, like your real lashes, fake eyelashes require care and maintenance so they can last for multiple wears. After you’ve removed them from your lash line, it’s vital that you apply a cleansing solution, DIY mixture of soap and water or lightly spritz them with rubbing alcohol to dissolve any makeup and bacteria that may be lurking in the strands. However, some fake eyelashes are, as Patinkin puts it, “just not worth trying to save, particularly if they’ve been messily applied with too much glue and mascara.” In that case, toss them.
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