This post provides an overview of individual false eyelashes and how to apply them. Other topics include their many benefits, particularly for the mature eye, how to remove them, different types of individual lashes and looks, and helpful tips for hooded eyes. Individual lash and glue recommendations are provided at the end of this post.
How to Apply Individual Lashes
Individual false lashes are the less intimidating cousin of full false eyelashes. They are an option that many of us may not even consider once we hit a “certain age”. Perhaps we assume they are hard to apply, too conspicuous, and over-the-top.
In my opinion, nothing could be further from the truth.
I also believe the many benefits of individual lashes speak specifically to mature eyes.
Great for a special event or just for everyday, this type of lash lends itself to a multitude of elevated looks from very natural to full-on glam and everything in between. It’s your choice.
Finally, the lash options are many with good quality ones priced at less than $10 and available in drugstores most anywhere.
What are Individual Lashes
Many of us may be more familiar with strip lashes that cover the entire lashline from the inner to the outer corner of the eye.
In contrast and as the name implies, false individual eyelashes are individual lashes or a small grouping of individual lashes. They adhere to the eyelid with a type of rubberized adhesive (the same as one uses with full false eyelashes). This glue allows for easy application and removal.
Individual lashes are applied a few lashes at a time. They can be placed anywhere or in various patterns/areas on the eyelid.
Benefits of Individual Lashes for Mature Eyes
With mature eyes, individual lashes can:
- Lift and open the eyes-even hooded eyes
- Address lash thinning; volume and length can be added to existing eyelashes
- Feel very soft and lightweight unlike the majority of full false eyelashes
- Provide a subtle enhancement for a natural but better look
- Be easy to apply; even with shaky hands (like mine)
Different Types of Individual Lashes
False individual lashes are offered in a dizzying array of sizes, lengths, curls, and widths along with a variety of materials. My recommendation, if you are a beginner, is to keep it simple and natural to get the hang of applying them. For that type of look, see some good beginner options I have asterisked below.
Here is a short list of some of the more popular individual lashes. All of the types below are available in a variety of lengths (short/medium/long), widths (lash circumference), and curl types.
While black is the most popular color, individual lashes are also available in other colors such as brown and blonde.
INDIVIDUAL KNOT LASHES-made with a knot at the base and thus are easy to glue although less natural looking; available in a variety of lengths and widths
**KNOT-FREE LASHES-no knot and offers a more natural eyelash look
CLUSTER LASHES-grouping of 2-3 lashes bound together at the base that adds increased and more visible volume; offered in a variety of lengths
**SINGLE INDIVIDUAL-individual lash strands offered in a variety of lash widths and lengths (short, medium, long)
DOUBLE/TRIPLE INDIVIDUAL-2 or 3 lash strands joined at the base creating a thicker, fuller and more dramatic look
**Provides a more natural look; easy to apply
Lash Glue
Most lashes require some sort of glue or adhesive in order to attach securely to the eyelid. Glues come in a variety of formats (squeeze tube/bottle or brush-on) and types including latex, latex-free, formaldehyde free, waterproof, and many more.
Lash Glue Color
Glue color options include clear, dark, or white (that dries clear). If you typically line your eyes with a dark pencil or similar, a dark lash glue color is a good choice since it blends in with the liner. If not, I recommend clear or white that dries to clear.
Lash Glue for Sensitive Eyes
Latex and formaldehyde are 2 ingredients in lash glues that are likely culprits in creating irritation for those with sensitive or dry eyes. Fortunately, many adhesive options exist now without these ingredients.
Lash Glue Format
Glue format (i.e. tube or brush) is important as it will affect the ease of application of the lashes.
Dispensing glue from a tube onto a piece of paper is for most an easier method of lash application than using a brush.
Depending on your preference, below are a few glue options and formats:
Duo StripLash Adhesive
The OG of all glues and available in multiple colors. It works very well but might be irritating to some.
Ardell lash grip strip false lash adhesive
Latex based but formaldehyde free. Available in multiple colors.
duo brush-on lash adhesive with vitamins
Both Latex and Formaldehyde free in a brush (vs tube) format.
How To Apply Individual Lashes – 6 Steps
Apply eyeshadow and mascara before starting any lashes. Completing this will help you visualize where best to place the lashes.
Also, lay out anything you may need. This includes lash glue, tweezers or a specialized lash applicator, and magnifying mirror. While there are many special lash grippers, a pair of tweezers or fingers can suffice just as well. It’s a matter of personal preference.
Step 1: Prepare lash adhesive for easy accessibility. Should the glue come in a squeezable tube, place a bit onto a piece of paper like this:
Step 2: Each lash is pre-loaded with a bit of adhesive so that it sticks to its packaging but not enough to stick to the eye. With the tweezers, gently pull the lash from the packaging. Be sure to grasp the entire lash grouping so individual lashes are not pulled off.
Step 3: Before applying any glue and if this is your first time or few times, practice holding the tweezers with the lash and positioning so that the lash is even and upright to the eye.
Step 4: Either dip the lash into the glue or brush the lash with glue. Wait about 30 seconds for the glue to get tacky and dry a bit.
Step 5: Position the lash and press it lightly onto the lash line and close to the root of the natural lash. Avoid touching it and just let it dry.
Step 6 OPTIONAL: Once lashes are completely dry, curl and mascara them again if desired.
Individual Lash Application Tips Reminders
If you are a beginner, here are a few additional tips:
- It is easier to dip the lash into glue rather than to use glue with a brush
- If you have sensitive eyes, explore glue options.
- Start with natural knot-free individuals if you want a more natural look
- Short length individuals are long! Medium are very long and long will provide a glam look
How to Remove Individual Lashes
Remove the individual lashes with an oil-based eye makeup remover. Soak a cotton pad and then press onto the eyelid for a few seconds. Wipe and the lashes should slip off.
Here are 2 of my favorites oil based removers:
Lancome bi-facil double action eye makeup remover
ELF SKIN Off Makeup remover
Suggestions for Hooded Eyes
If you have hooded eyes (and if you don’t know whether you do, see my post here), consider opting for:
- Short to medium-length lashes. Lashes that are too long may brush against the hooded lid. Shorter lashes in general will create a more subtle open look to the eye.
- Individual lashes with a more natural or soft curl pattern.
- Individual lashes with sparse or medium density. Lashes that are too thick can overwhelm the (lack of) lid space.
Recommended Individual Lashes
Below are a few suggested lash products. Ardell really has a corner on the market although more lash brands have emerged in recent years. I’ve listed just a couple of options including a pack from KISS that comes complete with everything (great if you want to give it a try).
ardell knot-free individuals, short
ardell 3D individual lashes, multiple lengths
This is a great starter pack as it offers knot free lashes and multiple lengths.
eylure Luxe 3d individuals
Individuals with a little more curl.
kiss lash couture luxtensions
Full pack with a variety of individual lengths, glues, and eyelash applicator
Summary
This post was all about individual lashes, their benefits, how to apply and remove them along with some helpful tips particularly if you are a beginner and/or have hooded eyes. If you have never considered them, my hope is that you may give them a try to experience for yourself how easy and customizable they are.
Here I am enjoying short and medium individual lashes.
Thank you for reading!
xO
Andrea
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