Bring on the flirt alert with our eye lash extension and mascara guide. Find out how celebs keep their lashes looking long and luscious and how you can play up your own eyes with a few pro tips. Get fluttering eyes now!
By Qianna Smith
Do you want to experiment with false lashes, but don’t know where to begin? Try using Ardell’s Fashion Lashes Starter Kit, $5.89, drugstore.com, that contains everything you need, including an easy-to-use lash applicator. Each lash strip is made with 100% sterilized human hair to create a natural look.
Before you have a lash attack, know what you need to get started.
Step 1: Curl Natural Lashes
Step 2: If you want to customize your lash definition, use scissors and trim lash cluster to desired length
Step 3: Squeeze out dime-size amount of glue on to a piece of foil
Step 4: Using Tweezers dip lash cluster into glue and allow glue to set and get tacky
Step 5: From the outer to the inner corner of the eye, place cluster on your natural lashes with end close to but not touching eyelid
Step 6: Hold the base of the cluster against the skin and let lash set for 30 seconds
Step 7: Repeat steps 4 & 6 using 10 to 15 clusters per eye
Step 8: Make sure lashes look blended then apply mascara and eyeliner on the top and bottom lashes for a polished finish
The gorgeous Alicia Keys is always batting some megawatt lashes. To get Keys’s look her makeup artist Ashunta Sherriff says to use three coats of Dior DiorShow Mascara in Black, $24, sephora.com, on the top and bottom lashes.
If you don’t think false eyelashes are fun and easy way to glam up your look just ask soul sister Mary J. Blige, who’s makeup artist D’Andre Michael says the songstress “likes her makeup simple. A clean, fresh face with faux lashes.”
Don’t want to fuss with applying false eyelashes then leave it to the pros and try individual lash extensions. Applied by a certified lash technician at a salon or spa, this method of enhancing the lashes will certainly go the distance. Head to the leaders in eyelash extension like Shu Uemura, Novalash and Xtreme for best results that cost anywhere from $250 to $500.
Oscar-winning beauty Halle Berry can’t live without her Revlon Fabulash Mascara, $6.99, drugstores, because it “lengthens and thickens lashes at the same time,” says the star.
If you’re looking for faux lash finish that will give you a touch of star quality, try wearing “Mink eyelashes.” A favorite among high-powered celebs like Oprah Winfrey, the costly lashes can run up to $1,000.
You no longer have to be a celebrity to look like one thanks to the innovation of Aira Cosmetics Company, who introduced its Signature Mink Eyelashes, myminklashes.com, that cost $100 to $250.
Note
Mink eyelashes are not cruel to animals. They are sterilized, hypoallergenic and harvested by gently brushing live farm animals.
“There are lashes that last for months, and some that last for days, but you have to pick a kind of lash that works for you,” says celebrity eyelash guru Ja’Maal Buster, who teaches clients like LeToya Luckett (pictured here) to find a lash look that is based on their own personal style.
LASHFOODTM is the perfect treat for any woman looking for beautiful, long eyelashes. This all-natural eyelash conditioning stimulator costs $120, lashfood.com, and helps the lashes grow fuller, longer, darker and stronger. Apply in the same manner as if applying eyeliner twice a day in the morning and evening. You’ll see results within 2-4 weeks!
Style Network host and actress Niecy Nash says you’ll find Almay One Coat Nourishing Waterproof Thickening Mascara, $6, drugstore.com, in her beauty bag that guarantees no smudging or flaking.
Struggling to grow your own natural lashes and don’t want to go the faux route? Max out your lashes the healthy way by avoiding mascaras containing dyes, fumes and fragrances. Instead look for products that have anti-inflammatory and healing agents that soothe and enhance the strength of your lashes. Eye lash treatments enriched with proteins, vitamins A, E, B-5 and keratin are also a safe bet.
You’re just one click away from revamping your look with eye colors, mascaras and liners suited just for our beautiful features. Check out the ESSENCE Makeover Magic tool today!
