Mastering the Art of Strip Lashes: Secrets and Techniques

Struggling with strip lashes? Yoursquo;re not alone. However, with a few tried-and-true tips and a bit of practice, you can become a pro and achieve impeccably perfect results every time.

Choosing the Right Glue

The secret to easier strip lash application lies in the choice of glue. Opt for the black glue that comes in a container with an applicator tool, rather than the ubiquitous tube of clear glue. This black glue is more like a liquid eyeliner, making it easier to apply neatly along the lash line. Apply the glue to one eye at a time, drawing a thin line across the entire length of your upper lash line, starting from the outer corner. You can then gently place the lashes along this line. Voilà! Perfect lashes, easy peasy.

Techniques for Successful Application

If you're new to applying strip lashes, my recommendation is to start with a less dense style. The lashes are attached to the lash band with tiny knots. The more lashes on the band, the more knots there are, making the band stiffer. Stiffer bands are more challenging to apply than flexible ones.

Once you've held the band along your lash line to test it for fit and trimmed it if it's too long (extending past the outside end of your upper lid), you're ready to go. Prepare your adhesive by putting a small dot on a piece of foil or the plastic cover of the tray that holds your lashes. I've been using Duo Lash adhesive in clear for decades, as it works exceptionally well, but there are also latex-free alternatives available if you have an allergy.

Applying the Lashes

Using a toothpick, dip one end into the adhesive and carefully run a fine line along the length of the lash band. You only need a minimal amount of adhesive to secure the lashes to your eyelids. If the adhesive drips or oozes onto the base of the lashes, you've used too much.

After applying the adhesive, let it dry until it becomes tacky. The time this takes depends on the amount of adhesive used and the temperature and humidity of your environment. When the adhesive is fully dry, it becomes translucent and opaque. You want to apply the lashes when the adhesive is tacky but not fully dry; this is what "let dry until tacky" means. It requires practice to assess when the adhesive is at this ideal stage. Carefully press the lashes onto your eyelid, starting at the inner corner and working your way to the outer corner. If you've applied the right amount of adhesive and let it dry sufficiently, the lashes should adhere almost instantly to your skin.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lashes

Instead of placing lashes from the middle to the corners, start at the inner corner for each eye. Place a tiny dot using an eyeliner pencil near the inner corner of each eye, indicating where you want the lash strip to begin. Begin by adhering the lash strips at these dots and then press them down along your lash line until you reach the outer corner of each eye. This method reduces the risk of asymmetry.

Proper adhesive application is crucial. If you use too much adhesive or let the strip dry completely, you risk getting too much adhesive under the band, which can damage your own lashes when removing the strip. Instead, apply the lashes while the adhesive is still tacky. This allows for a strong bond without risking damage to your natural lashes when removal.

For longevity, avoid using waterproof mascara on your strip lashes. Non-waterproof mascara can be easily removed with lukewarm water or a cotton pad, while waterproof mascara can damage your lashes and is harder to clean.

Conclusion

Becoming a strip lash pro is a matter of practice and using the right techniques. With these tips, you can achieve perfect, long-lasting strip lashes with ease. Happy lashing!