If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?
False eyelashes level up our look like no other beauty product, yet many of us opt out of using them for one major reason: they're a total pain to put on, making them seem like the worst beauty gift. Well ... at least they used to be.
Thankfully, we've moved far beyond the olden days of sewing them onto our lids (please don't do that) and have more eyelash-enhancing options than ever to create a fuller look with our lashes. Modern false eyelashes are made with non-irritating materials — synthetic fibers, mink, or human hair — and come in various lengths to help your giftee achieve specific results.
There are hundreds of styles to gift, ranging from a subtle oomph with KISS My Lash But Better, All Mine to full-on va-va-volume with Lilly Lashes 3D Mink in Mykonos. False eyelashes, such as Doja Cat's favorite $8 falsies, can be applied with old-fashioned lash glue, while others, like Glamnetic Virgo Magnetic Lashes, are trendy magnetized versions for seamless application. Regardless of which pair you gift loved ones, there's a set of false eyelashes out there for everyone to enjoy for days, weeks, and even months to come. And given their cheap price tags, you can afford to gift plenty to loved ones and yourself.
The Best False Eyelashes
How Safe are False Eyelashes?
There’s no doubt that false eyelashes look incredible, but are they actually safe to use? According to Dr. Elizabeth Chiang, M.D., Ph.D., an ophthalmologist and oculoplastic specialist, they’re generally safe, assuring “they cannot affect your eyesight if applied correctly.”
So, how exactly do you apply fake eyelashes safely? Makeup artist and founder of Embellish Beauty, Marcia Williams says you can safely use fake eyelashes with glue by following these two pro tips with every application:
- Test the adhesive on the back of your hand in case of any skin irritations and reactions.
- Silk false eyelashes are helpful for sensitive skin.
What to Consider
False eyelashes will enhance your beauty look in just a few minutes and can last between up to 40 wears — but according to Williams, the biggest key to finding the best lash that fits you is understanding your eye shape. The Philadelphia-based entrepreneur says you should keep these shape guidelines in mind while you shop:
- Round and almond-shaped eyes can handle fuller-bodied false eyelashes.
- Mono eye shape, hooded, and small eyes should consider shorter false eyelashes or fake eyelashes that are slightly longer in the center to create an illusion of depth.
How to Apply False Eyelashes
Here, Williams shares a few of her favorite tips for quick and easy false eyelash application.
- Measure the lashes before wearing them for a custom fit.
- Use small lash scissors to snip a tiny amount of outer lash hairs at a time.
- Allow the lash adhesive to dry down before applying.
- The shorter part of each faux lash strip goes closest to the inner corner of your natural lashes.
- Use the back of a spoon to press the lashes up once applied.
How We Chose
Since there are just so many fake fringes to choose from, we recruited a few of our very own editors, along with our beauty-fanatic colleagues from our sister Hearst publications to chat all about their favorite falsies, too. Here are our favorite fringes that made the cut.
Pros
- Co-created by a makeup artist
- Woman- and LGBT-owned
- Natural and glam look
- Available in black and brown
- Total of 13 lash styles to chose from
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- Glue and Lash Tool are sold separately
What makes these LOVESEEN lashes so iconic? First off, they're basically weightless, thanks to their lightweight nylon and P.E.T.-based lashes. They're also easy to glue on, and you can even grab a helpful lash tool from their site to make the application easier than ever.
LOVESEEN is the brainchild of fashion designer Jenna Lyons and celebrity makeup artist Troi Ollivierre, so you already know this brand will be nothing less than sublime. Don't believe us? Well, Brian Underwood, beauty director of Women's Health — plus our very own parenting editor, Cat Bowen — both vouch for this amazing lash brand that you just simply can't miss out on.
Underwood is a fan of all the lashes under their line, but Bowen says the “Jack” set is her favorite for an all-natural look that you can wear any day.
More: These Dry Scalp Shampoos Will Rebalance Your Hair for Good
Key Spec
Rating | 4.7-star average from 58 LoveSeen reviews |
---|
Pros
- Lightweight look and feel
- Invisiband technology for a reliable and seamless fit
Cons
- Gift something more dramatic if your recipient has naturally long lashes
Ardell is synonymous with false eyelashes, so it’s no surprise the signature #110 lashes are featured on this list.
These non-intimidating lashes are great for daily wear and beginners looking to give falsies a whirl. They sport a clear lash band so your giftee won’t have to camouflage with eyeliner or eyeshadow. They also alternate between medium and long synthetic hairs to give a realistic “your lashes, but better” feel.
While gifting five sets of the same eyelash may seem extra, your giftee will be thrilled to have backups. Not only do they have enough lashes to last them at least a month, but on nights when they want to amplify your eye look, they can layer two sets of lashes for extra drama.
Key Spec
Rating | 4.5-star average from 2,901 Amazon reviews |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Great for everyday wear
- Provides wearable volume
Cons
- Skip if your giftee prefers dramatic lashes
Alexis Gaskin, former freelance beauty assistant at Elle, says she can't get enough of these bargain-friendly lashes — and we guarantee your giftee won't either.
These lashes truly stand out for their ultra thin band, which makes them look oh, so real. Since the bands are thin, their lash application is a total breeze, but your loved one will need their own lash glue for this set.
But with its super-low price tag, you can feel free to gift all the lash glue you'd like — plus a few more pairs of these lashes!
Key Spec
Rating | 4.5-star average from 2,335 Amazon reviews |
---|
Pros
- Cheap
- Loved by celebrities
Cons
- No online reviews because they just launched
Doja Cat sported these dramatic eyelashes at the Grammys, so your giftee can recreate the red carpet lewk at home and will only cost you $8.
“I opted for a flared lash with spiky clusters to help elongate the eye and add a dramatic wispy effect. For this, I opted for the Kiss Lash in the style ‘Sire’ from the new Muse Lash Collection,” makeup artist Ernesto Casillas recently told us.
He applied the Kiss Strip Lash Adhesive and waited 10-15 seconds for it to get tacky, then applied the lashes and topped off with a generous coat of mascara to both top and bottom lashes. “The great thing about this look is that it doesn’t have to be precise,” he said.
Key Spec
Rating | N/A |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Includes lash adhesive
- Includes 24 clusters that can be used up to 3 times
Cons
- Beginners will have a learning curve
When your bestie wants to embrace maximum glamour, gift her these cruelty-free eyelashes from I-ENVY. They're reusable up to three times and made with tiny microfibers placed under their real lashes for the most realistic appearance.
Lash clusters are ideal for when your giftee wants to create a more subtle effect, but they'll really appreciate this beauty gift because it comes with lashes of various lengths. They can apply the longer clusters on their outer lashes to enhance their cat eye or start at the center for a Y2K baby doll look.
Amazon reviewers swear by these false eyelashes, and so will your giftee. "I love this product — it is so way to apply, looks unbelievably natural, and stays on," says one 5-star review.
Key Spec
Rating | 3.9-star average form 2,624 Amazon reviews |
---|
Pros
- Includes multiple lashes, lash glue, and tweezers
- Handmade with human hair for the most realistic look
Cons
- Since they’re handmade, there may be slight differences from one to another
Wispy and lightweight, these are the ideal false eyelashes to gift. They are highly rated and have the right lash accessories for the complete gifting experience.
The clear lash glue is made for long-lasting wear and boasts a waterproof, odor-free, and latex-free formula that's safe for our sensitive eyes. The precise-tip applicator is also mess-free and has a flawless finish. There's also a pair of curved tweezers to fit the shape of the eyes for the perfect application every single time.
Amazon reviewers can’t get over how comfy the reusable lashes feel and highlight the applicator as a major win. “The band is super easy to use and place on the eye. I didn’t have to cut off any on the end due to having large eyes. They remind me of Ardell Wispy lashes but [are] more full and less plastic-looking. These look so beautiful on,” says one 5-star review.
Key Spec
Rating | 4.5-star average from 209 Amazon reviews |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Includes adhesive
- Sold in 1- and 3-packs
Cons
- Some reviewers find they're only reusable up to 2 times
When your giftee wants major drama, look no further than Eyelure's No. 126 eyelashes. Each lash is noticeably thicker than other false eyelashes on this list, so they're perfect for treating an attention-grabbing look on a budget.
Notably, these false eyelashes have a unique spikey design; some lashes are longer and denser than others for a welcome dramatic effect. These reusable lashes also sport a sleek black band for added definition, similar to black eyeliner on the top lash line.
Amazon reviewers love wearing these false eyelashes for special occasions and say they're surprisingly easy to apply and feel feather-light because of their thin band. "So I really like Eylure eyelashes, and of all the regular lashes that you'd apply with adhesive. I find these the easiest to apply. I can actually get them on my lash line, as opposed to in the region of my eye somewhere," says one 5-star review.
Key Spec
Rating | 4.2-star average 2,394 Amazon reviews |
---|
Pros
- Cotton-thread lash band provides a natural finish
- Ideal for adding length
Cons
- Not the most voluminous lashes
“These award-winning lashes are my hands-down favorite on the face of the Earth — and I’ve tried a lot of false eyelashes,” says Jennifer Hussein, our former beauty editor.
“I have super shaky hands, so one of the best parts of these lashes is that they’re no-trim, which means you don’t have to cut them down (and potentially ruin them) before applying them. You can simply swipe on some lash glue, stick them on, and you’re all set,” she says.
Another reason why Hussein loves these lashes is that they give her natural eyelashes a subtle zhoosh without teetering on obviously fake territory.
Key Spec
Rating | 4.4-star average from 1,019 Sephora reivews |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Provides a fuller fringe
- Reviewers with glasses love them
Cons
- Virgo is the shortest length
Magnetic lashes are a fun, trendy innovation that takes the messy glue out of their beauty routine. While they sound amazing, know that not all magnetic lashes are made the same, and some may actually break your lashes or lead to infection (as with most lashes) if your recipient is not careful.
That’s why when it comes to gifting a reliable set of lashes with a magnetic band, we always suggest these from Glamnetic. All of Glamnetic’s lashes are super easy to use and simply click together to stay on your lashes all day without slipping off or pulling at their leashes.
This set will become a fast favorite for days when they want all the volume without an intensely fake look. Don’t believe us? Well, to quote one 5-star Ulta review, “I literally put them on in the car in the parking lot. That’s how easy they are!”
Key Spec
Rating | 4.7-star average form 729 Ulta reviews |
---|
Pros
- Created by a beauty guru
- Reviewers find they last up to 15 times, so it's a very fair cost per wear ($1.53)
Cons
- Some reviewers say it views relatively heavy
If your giftee's gotten lash extensions before, then they know there's usually a big difference in the look and feel of mink-based lashes versus synthetic versions. But if they'd rather stick to cruelty-free options, Cat Bowen says these false eyelashes from Huda Beauty are the perfect substitution.
These false eyelashes have the exact look and feel of a fresh set of mink extensions, yet they're made out of 100% synthetic mellow fibers attached to a comfy cotton band. These dramatically glam lashes are perfect for any IRL events they have coming up, including weddings.
Sephora reviewers are also keen on these Huda false eyelashes. “These are my go-to lashes. The band is strong and holds its own, which I find makes application easier. The lashes themselves look expensive and lush — they def make my eyes pop, and the tapering of the lash length gives a very sultry look [that’s] perfect for nights out,” says one 5-star review.
Key Spec
Rating | 3.9-star average from 312 Sephora reviews |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Includes lash adhesive
- Light weight and easy to remove
Cons
- Probably not the easiest application for first-time falsie users
Based on actual salon lash extensions, this kit includes everything they need to recreate a lash extension finish without actually dedicating time (and money) to getting their lashes done.
"This particular set is my personal recommendation because it's meant to mimic D-curl lash extensions, the most dramatic finish you can get to create a cat-eye look that opens your eyes," says Hussein.
The Eyelure kit includes everything they need to create their perfect eye-opening look: sectioned lashes so they can place them where they please, an easy-to-use dual-sided application wand that contains a black bond on one end, a clear sealant on the other, and an applicator.
Key Spec
Rating | 4-star average from 34 Target reviews |
---|
Pros
- Reusable up to 25 times
- Compliments upturned and almond eye shapes
Cons
- Skip if your giftee isn't into dramatic lashes
When your giftee wants a more intense look, they probably want a dramatic lash that isn’t too dramatic. And when it comes to fitting their Goldilocks-like taste, these false eyelashes fit the bill.
They hit the sweet spot between barely there and too much. These hand-crafted lashes flawlessly blend in with their natural ones and instantly add length, volume, and definition. Big and bold, they’re appropriate for when dressing up, but if they’re into attention-grabbing eye makeup in the day, then they can rock these lashes for some daytime drama.
The only downside? They’re made out of mink, so if they want to stay truly cruelty-free, you may want to opt out of buying this set.
Key Spec
Rating | 4.7-star average from 437 Ulta reviewers |
---|
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Available in 9 styles
- Paraben-, phthalate-, and latex-free
Cons
- Some reviewers say it does a decent job at holding a curl
Your giftee can't go wrong with Tarte regarding vegan beauty products. That's why we highly recommend these lashes if they're looking for truly animal-free lashes. On top of their stellar $15 price tag, these 100% vegan synthetic lashes look and feel just like their natural ones, all attached on a single clear comfort-fit cotton strip.
Sephora reviewers agree these eyelashes are underrated and deserve a spot in your recipient’s beauty arsenal. “Amazing!! They’re so lightweight and easy to use — they’re very flirty while still giving me the dramatic lashes I need every day,” says one 5-star review.
Psst: If they're looking for a vegan lash adhesive to go with these, Tarte has your back with this clear adhesive.
Key Spec
Rating | 3.8-star average from 437 Sephora reviews |
---|
Based on actual salon lash extensions, this kit includes everything you need to recreate a lash extension finish without actually dedicating time (and money) to getting your lashes done.
"This particular set is my personal recommendation because it's meant to mimic D-curl lash extensions, the most dramatic finish you can get to create a cat-eye look that opens your eyes," says Hussein.
The Eyelure kit includes everything you need to create your perfect eye-opening look: sectioned lashes so you can place them where you please, an easy-to-use dual-sided application wand that contains a black bond on one end, and a clear sealant on the other, and an applicator.
Nicole Saunders
Beauty Editor
Nicole Saunders is the beauty editor at Best Products with over eight years of experience researching, writing, and editing lifestyle content. She specializes in breaking down complicated topics, like high-frequency wands and microcurrent devices, into easy-to-understand guides. Saunders takes great pride in heavily researching and testing featured beauty products, — such as hairdryers and foundations — on our site, and spotlights her all-time seasonal favorites in her quarterly column Best New Beauty. And she tests quite literally thousands of launches for our Best New Beauty Awards package. You can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop on her product testing adventues.
Jennifer Hussein
Beauty Editor
Jennifer is the former beauty editor for BestProducts.com, where she’s testing out everything from the latest lip gloss to the craziest skincare trend sweeping the online beauty-verse. Her work has been featured in Allure, Byrdie, HelloGiggles, and more. When she’s not swatching eyeshadow all over her arms, you can find the NYC-based editor scouring for hours on end for vintage finds, eating pad thai, and hanging out with her cat, Chunks.