Unlike traditional false eyelashes, which use glue, magnetic lashes attach with magnets that sit above and below your natural lash line. The magnetic eyelashes are reusable and easy to apply.
For tips and tricks on applying, removing, and maintaining magnetic lashes, PEOPLE turned to expert makeup artists Kirin Bhatty (whose clients include Jenny Slate and Kate Mara) and Andrew Sotomayor.
1- They are easy to apply
1.1. Simple Preparation Steps
With the boom in eyelash growth serums and lash extensions, curling, and lengthening mascara, many women are looking for new ways to get fuller, longer lashes. While applying traditional false lashes requires glue and can be a bit tricky, magnetic lashes offer a less messy option. In fact, they are easier to apply than regular eyelash glue and can be used multiple times.
1.2. Smudge-proof and Waterproof Liner Application
The first step is to prepare the lashes. Remove them from their case and trim any excess lash material hanging over the strip’s edge. Depending on the brand, this can be done with a pair of scissors or tweezers. Once the lashes are ready, apply two coats of the included smudge-proof and waterproof liner to the lash band. This will help them stay in place all night.
1.3. Positioning and Aligning the Lash Sections
Next, balance the top part of the magnetic lash over your lash line and align the bottom section underneath it. This will create a sandwich effect with your natural lashes in the middle of the two rows. You may need to adjust the lash bands with your fingers or tweezers to make sure they sit comfortably on your lash line. Once the lashes are in place, press them against your eyes with your fingers to ensure they are secure. You can also apply a light coat of mascara on the lashes to further blend them with your natural ones.
1.4. Pressing for Secure Attachment
Once the lashes are set, you can add more smudge-proof and waterproof liner as needed. Some brands of magnetic lashes come with extra liners, but you can purchase them separately as well. It’s best to use a small amount of mascara so it doesn’t weigh down the magnetic lash strips. It’s recommended that you apply the mascara at least once a day to keep it in good condition.
1.5. Enhancing with Mascara
Magnetic false lashes are safe to use, but you will need to take care of them as you would any other makeup accessory. If you wear them every day, it’s a good idea to clean them at the end of each day with a cotton swab or round soaked in organic, unscented hand sanitizer. You can also spritz them with a little micellar water to give them a good cleaning.
2- They are easy to remove
2.1. Gentle Removal Process
Unlike traditional false eyelashes that have to be discarded after each use, magnetic lashes can be reused multiple times. They’re also easy to clean with a damp cotton ball or makeup remover. This step is important as it prevents the buildup of dirt around your eyes, which can lead to eye infections. This includes blepharitis, a condition that results in the blockage of oil and tear glands.
There are several types of magnetic lashes on the market, and choosing the right one depends on your personal preference. The type of material the lashes are made from is an important factor as it determines how natural they look and how durable they are. Most magnetic lash products are made from silk or faux mink but can also be made from synthetic fibers. It’s best to opt for a set that comes with both false and magnetic lashes so you can experiment with different styles.
2.2. Preventing Clumping and Lash Damage
If you’re new to using magnetic lashes, it may take some practice before you can apply them properly. First, make sure your hands are clean before you begin. Also, avoid touching your eyelids throughout the day, and never wear lashes if you have an infection or irritation.
Start by positioning the top piece on your upper lash line to apply the lashes. Then, balance the bottom lash piece in the middle of your eyelid. The magnets on the two lashes should snap together, sandwiching your real eyelashes in between. If you’re having trouble getting them to stick together, try lining the top and bottom pieces up a little higher up on your lash line.
2.3. Importance of Nightly Removal
Once the lashes are on, they’ll stay put all night long. However, you should still remove them before bed to ensure your eyes stay healthy. If you don’t remove them, your lashes may clump together and become difficult to separate. If you don’t have any makeup remover handy, you can always use a cotton swab or round soaked in micellar water to gently remove the lashes.
Alternatively, you can purchase eyelash glue that’s safe to use with your magnetic lashes. You can find this product online or at some beauty stores. However, it’s important to note that it takes longer to apply and remove lashes with glue than it does with magnetic lashes.
3- They are easy to clean
3.1. Cleaning Routine Overview
Unlike traditional false eyelashes, magnetic lashes have tiny magnets dotted along the band of each strip. They are applied by placing one strip above your natural lash line and the other underneath to snap together. Some people find that their natural lashes grow stronger and healthier when they switch to this type of product because it does not expose them to the harsh chemicals found in most glues.
3.2. Using Organic, Unscented Hand Sanitizer
While they do require a small learning curve, once you master the liner, these lashes are easy to use. The magnetic liners are small and light, so they don’t catch on to the natural lashes or pull them out. They are also waterproof and smudge-proof, perfect for those wearing makeup during the day.
3.3. Spritzing with Micellar Water
The best part about these lashes is that they are reusable and very low maintenance, as there is no glue to wash off or eyeliner to remove. If you follow some simple tips, they’ll last for months. First, make sure to wash your hands before touching the lashes. You want to ensure that your fingers are free of oil and dirt, as this can cause the lashes to slide or slip off your eyes. Next, if you’re wearing mascara, be sure to clean it off before applying the lashes. This will prevent it from sticking to them and making them look clumpy.
3.4. Importance of Regular Cleaning
It’s important to clean your eyelids before applying a pair of magnetic lashes. You should use oil-free makeup remover or warm water to remove any dirt, dust, or debris on your lashes. Make sure to also remove any eyeliner that you may have been wearing.
Once you’ve removed your lashes, wash your hands before touching them. This will ensure that your hands are clean and free of pathogens that could cause an infection. Then, you can spritz them with an organic, unscented hand sanitizer to help keep them germ-free. Finally, if you plan on reusing them, make sure to keep them in a clean box or container.
4- They are easy to maintain
4.1. Ensuring Long-Term Use
Magnetic lashes are easy to maintain and offer real flexibility in your look. However, the process of attaching and removing them requires a bit of practice. Moreover, you have to clean the magnets and the lash band after each use. This will keep your lashes clean and prevent the formation of fungus on the eyelids. Besides, cleaning them will also make them last longer. The best way to do this is by using a clean cotton swab soaked in alcohol and applying it to the magnets. Make sure that you gently rub the swab and do not scratch the magnets or the lash bands. Finally, dry the lashes properly.
4.2. Hand Hygiene and Spritzing with Hand Sanitizer
Another advantage of magnetic lashes is that they are less messy than traditional false eyelashes. This is because there is no need to apply a lot of glue to lashes, which can cause irritation and lead to a raccoon-eye effect. However, it is important to remember that you should clean your lashes regularly, especially after a long day of wear. You will need makeup remover, tweezers, and a plastic container for this. Make sure that the container is clean, and pour a thin layer of makeup remover on it. Then, grab your lashes and move them slowly in the container from one side to the other. After that, put them on a piece of tissue and dry them.
4.3. Storage Tips for Prolonged Lifespan
In addition to cleaning your lashes, you should also use good mascara on them. This will help them blend better with your natural lashes and will give you a more dramatic look. Make sure that you clean the mascara from your lashes with a cotton swab soaked in makeup remover or micellar water before you start wearing them again. After that, you should comb the lashes with an eyelash comb to make them look neat and presentable. You should also clean your lashes at night by placing them on a tissue and drying them in a room without moisture. You can even spritz them with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to thoroughly clean them. This will ensure that your lashes stay clean and shiny.
