Lash Tips From A Make Up Artist
I have a few of these big beauty questions that I feel like no one ever knows the answer to, so today I’m bringing in an expert for topic number 1: Lashes. Do you stick them to your eyelid or your eye lashes? Before or after mascara? How do I put them on without gluing my eyes shut?
I asked Jaclyn all of this and more and she answered. Jaclyn is a Los Angeles based makeup artist and hair stylist. We met at a shoot for A-List magazine, and have been friends since! Jaclyn also taught me some basic makeup technique in this YouTube video and what can I say — my blending skills have improved 10-fold thanks to Jaclyn. Here’s what she had to say about lashes:
Q: What are all the types of fake lashes and which do you recommend?
A: There are so many lashes to choose from nowadays and it really comes down to preference. I personally like using individuals on myself and my clients. Some of my favorites are the individual lashes from Ardell and Sweed lashes. I also like Ardell’s Wispie lashes and Eylure’s. For me it’s about comfort and just accentuating the eye. For a more dramatic look, Lilly Lashes and House of Lashes are great for that extra drama.
Q: What is the proper way to wear/apply strip lashes? Should they sit on your lid or on your lashes?
A: It takes a lot of practice to properly apply lashes on yourself and on others so practice, practice. Once you’ve applied the glue you should allow it to get a bit tacky, about 30 seconds, and apply directly on the lashes getting as close to the lash line without it sitting on your actual lid. You’ll have a little bit of play time with the glue so use your clean tweezers to maneuver the lashes.
Q: At what point in the makeup routine do you apply? Do you do them last? Should you add mascara after?
A: It depends on what your process is. I do eyes first, so after I complete the eye look then I apply the lashes. I curl the natural lashes, add mascara, then apply the lashes. You can definitely add mascara afterwards to blend them with your own. You can use a clean spoolie to brush them out carefully and remove any clumps if necessary.
Q: Is it ok to reuse lashes multiple times?
A: Definitely not with individuals. There are some lash companies that claimed you could re-use their lashes several times if you cleaned the band, however with the current Covid situation I would recommend you don’t.
Q: Is there a proper way to remove them?
A: Some people just pull them off but you run the risk of pulling off your natural lashes. As part of your nightly makeup removal routine, I recommend using a makeup wipe or cotton square with micellar water and gently rub your eye until the lash slides off.
Q: Any common mistakes you see people do with lashes?
A: Again, this is a personal choice, but I think wearing extremely thick lashes can weigh down your eyes and make them look droopy. Also gluing the lash strip to the lid is something I see far too often.
Q: What do you think about permanent eyelash extensions and eyelash growth serums?
A: Another personal choice. I had a very bad experience with lash extensions and very much dislike doing makeup on people who have them. You’re not supposed to get makeup on the extensions so it’s a bit of a challenge to do an eye look on someone who’s wearing them. I’ve tried a few growth serums after my experience with lash extensions and I can’t say I saw any results but I have heard from other people that they’ve had positive results, so I think it depends on the person.
Q: Any fav lash products you recommend?
A: I like using a lash primer before applying mascara. Dior makes a great one I’m currently obsessed with. My go-to lash curler is the Kevyn Aucoin one, it just gives the perfect curl and lift to your lashes. I go through infatuation phases with mascara. Right now I’m loving Dior’s Pump N’ Volume. I also carry in my kit probably every MUA’s go to, L’oreal Voluminous Mascara.
Q: oh yeah — any thoughts on magnetic lashes?
A: I’ve tried them and didn’t really care for them. Some people have a hard time applying them and some brands don’t stick very well. The bottom part falls off, and I just haven’t heard anything good about them. Hope you all find these tips helpful!