Blog

Lash Perfection

How to Achieve the Look of False Lashes Without Wearing Falsies

If you love the drama and elegance of false lashes but prefer to skip the glue and fuss, don’t worry, there are ways to enhance your natural lashes to get the same effect! With the right techniques and tools, you can achieve voluminous, fluttery lashes that rival falsies. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Cleanse and Prep Your Lashes

Start with a clean slate. Remove any leftover mascara or oil with a gentle eye makeup remover. Healthy lashes are key to achieving a fuller look, so consider applying a lash serum or conditioner to keep them nourished and strong.

Step 2: Curl Your Lashes

An eyelash curler is your best friend for achieving lifted, wide-open eyes. Place the curler at the base of your lashes, squeeze gently, and hold for 5-10 seconds. For a more dramatic curl, repeat the process in sections along the length of your lashes.

Step 3: Prime Your Lashes (Optional)

A lash primer helps to separate and coat your lashes, creating a smooth base for mascara. This step also boosts volume and length, making your lashes appear thicker and more defined. Let the primer dry slightly before moving on.

Step 4: Choose the Right Mascara

To mimic the effect of false lashes, you’ll need a combination of lengthening and volumizing mascaras:

  • Start with a lengthening mascara to stretch your lashes and define them.

  • Follow up with a volumizing mascara for depth and fullness. Opt for a buildable formula to layer without clumping.

If you prefer to use just one mascara, choose a volumizing mascara. Volumizing mascaras provide both fullness and some length, offering a thicker, fuller appearance without needing a second product. It’s a great all-around choice for achieving a false lash look with just one mascara.

Waterproof formulas can hold a curl longer but might require extra care when removing.


💡Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

  • Waterproof Mascara: Designed to withstand water, sweat, and tears. It has a durable, long-lasting formula that won’t smudge or run, even in humid or wet conditions. However, it may be more difficult to remove and require an oil-based makeup remover to gently take it off.
  • Water-Resistant Mascara: Offers some resistance to water but is not as resistant as waterproof formulas. It can handle light moisture or humidity, but may not hold up as well in heavy rain or intense swimming. It’s easier to remove compared to waterproof mascara, making it a good option for daily wear.

 
 
  • High-End

    Lengthening

    1. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara – Offers long-lasting curl and length.

    2. Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Waterproof Mascara – Tubing formula that lengthens and stays put.

    Volumizing

    1. Lancome Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara – Provides bold volume with waterproof wear.

    2. Tom Ford Extreme Waterproof Mascara – Luxurious formula that resists smudging and water.

    ———————————————

    Low-End

    Lengthening

    1. L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof Mascara – Delivers extreme length in a waterproof formula.

    2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara – A fan favorite for waterproof length.

    Volumizing

    1. L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara – Delivers soft, volumized lashes that resist water.

    2. Maybelline The Colossal Waterproof Mascara – Provides bold volume with long-lasting, waterproof wear..

  • High-End (Prestige)

    Lengthening

    1. YSL Beauty Lash Clash Mascara – Resists smudging and humidity while offering length.

    2. Pat McGrath Labs FetishEyes Mascara – Water-resistant formula for length and definition.

    Volumizing

    1. Guerlain Maxi Lash Mascara – Water-resistant with intense volume.

    2. Chantecaille Faux Cils Mascara – Provides water-resistant volume while conditioning lashes.

    ———————————————

    Low-End (Mass Market)

    Lengthening

    1. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara – Offers a water-resistant formula for dramatic length.

    2. CoverGirl Exhibitionist Stretch & Strengthen Mascara – Resists humidity and offers natural-looking length.

    Volumizing

    1. Milani Highly Rated 10-in-1 Volume Mascara – A lightweight, water-resistant option for buildable volume.

    2. e.l.f. Big Mood Mega Volume Mascara – Water-resistant and clump-free for bold lashes.


Step 5: Apply Mascara Like a Pro

When teaching people in my 1:1 and group makeup classes, Full Face Like A Pro, on how to apply mascara, I teach them the following methods:

  1. Hold the mascara wand vertically (the tip of the wand is facing upward) and use the tip of the wand to coat the lashes in a windshield wiper motion. This is to coat the lashes first.

  2. Once lashes are fully coated, turn the mascara wand horizontally to comb and separate the lashes to your desired appearance.

  3. Wait a few seconds to dry before adding another layer.

Step 6: Tightline Your Eyes

Enhance the appearance of a fuller lash line by tightlining! By applying a dark brown or black waterproof eyeliner to your upper waterline. This technique fills in gaps between lashes and makes them look thicker instantly.

Step 7: Consider Lash Fibers (Optional)

For even more drama, you can apply lash fibers between mascara layers. These adhere to your lashes, adding length and volume without the need for extensions or falsies.

Step 8: Comb Through Lashes

Use a clean spoolie or lash comb to separate and define your lashes, removing any clumps for a flawless finish.

Step 9: Highlight the Inner Corners (Optional)

Draw attention to your eyes by adding a touch of highlighter or shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corners. This simple step brightens your eyes, making your lashes appear even more striking.

Ready to elevate your lash game? I've curated a list of all the recommended products, from mascaras to lash-enhancing tools, to help you achieve the perfect look with ease. Plus, enjoy a 20% discount on select tools! Click below to explore and shop!


Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Natural Lashes

  • Heated Lash Curler: For stubborn lashes, a heated curler can provide extra lift and hold. LASHIFY

  • Invest in a Lash Serum: Regular use of a lash serum can help your lashes grow longer and thicker over time. RODAN+FIELDS

  • Lash Lifts: Consider getting a professional lash lift for a semi-permanent curl and lifted appearance. This treatment enhances your natural lashes, making them appear longer and more defined without the need for daily curling.

With these tips and techniques, you can achieve the look of false lashes without ever having to wear them. The best part? This routine enhances your natural beauty while saving time and hassle. Try it out and watch your lashes steal the spotlight!


LEARN HOW…

Professional makeup table setup for a personalized makeup lesson with Chenese Bean.

Want to master the art of achieving flawless lashes and elevate your entire makeup routine? Consider booking a personalized 1:1 makeup lesson! During this two-hour session, you’ll learn step-by-step techniques for full face makeup application tips tailored to your needs, including how to perfect your lashes, from proper curling and mascara application to advanced tips like tightlining and choosing the right products.

In addition to lash techniques, this lesson covers creating a flawless full-face look, contouring, enhancing your brows, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to get expert guidance and product recommendations customized for you. Schedule your lesson today and take your makeup skills to the next level!

 

HIRE CHENESE INSTEAD

Chenese Bean applying makeup to a client during a full-face makeup application session.

Prefer to sit back and let a pro handle it? Book an appointment in-studio or on-location for a full-face makeup application! Whether it’s for a special event, photoshoot, or just a day of glam, a look will be created that enhances your natural beauty and suits your occasion.