Eye Makeup Before or False Eyelashes Later? A Clear Solution To The Dilemma
Should I apply eye makeup before or after false eyelashes? This question is one of the most debated topics among beauty lovers. Following the correct order is crucial to creating the perfect glam look. Whether preparing for a photoshoot, dressing up for a romantic date night, or just experimenting with makeup, knowing the proper technique can elevate your look. Misapplying makeup and eyelashes can cause smudging around the eyes, lashes that don’t sit properly, or dull eyeshadow.
The primary reason for this confusion is that different makeup artists offer advice tailored to their specific goals or preferences. Some say lashes first, and some say makeup first. However, everyone follows several proven rules in the beauty world, especially when the durability and beauty of the makeup become important. For best results, it’s essential to understand your eye shape, the type of lashes you’re using, and the properties of the makeup products you’re applying. In this guide, we’ll explain which is better: eye makeup first or false eyelashes?
What Comes First: Eyeshadow or Eyelashes?
Almost all famous makeup artists and beauty bloggers say you should finish applying eyeshadow before applying false eyelashes. Once the lashes are used, it becomes difficult for the brush to reach the crease and outer corner of the eye, resulting in incomplete blending of the eyeshadow. Moreover, if eyeshadow powder falls on the lash band or the lashes, the lashes can look blurry and untidy.
Finishing your eyeshadow first will help you apply color evenly to each part of your eye. It’s also easier to clean up any fallout, and there won’t be as much buildup on the band when you apply lash glue later. Especially if you’re using a bold, dramatic color, applying eyeshadow first is safer, as you can easily adjust it without risking damage to your lashes.
Why Timing Is So Important In Eye Makeup
When to apply false eyelashes during eye makeup can significantly impact the overall quality of the look. Applying lashes first makes it challenging to do delicate things like a tight liner or winged eyeliner. Again, if you apply all your makeup last, using liquid or creamy eyeliner can cause it to stick to your lashes or cause them to lift.
When applied at the right time, eyelashes are a finishing touch to the entire makeup rather than an obstacle. They add dimension to the eyes and brighten up the glam look. If the timing is correct, the lash band will sit in place without spreading and won’t ruin the surrounding makeup. With patience, you’ll achieve perfect, sparkling eye makeup.
Step-by-Step Eye Makeup Before and After False Eyelashes
Eye makeup before or after false eyelashes requires a specific, step-by-step guide to master this art. Starting with clean and primed eyelids helps eyeshadow sit beautifully, and lashes are placed perfectly. This method maintains the overall balance of the makeup and prevents common mistakes, such as uneven shadows or loose lash bands.
First, groom your eyebrows and apply a good-quality eye primer. A good primer prevents creasing, makes makeup last longer, and helps eyeshadow look brighter. Then, blend the base shade on the eyelid and gradually add transition and crease shades to create dimension. Once the eyeshadow is well-blended, move on to the eyeliner. At this stage, you can try any style, whether smoky, winged, or graphic—remember to dry your lashes thoroughly before applying them.
False eyelashes should be applied only when the eye makeup is almost complete (except mascara). Following this sequence will prevent eyeshadow powder from falling on the lashes. It will not interfere with the brush’s movement. After applying the lashes, you can apply mascara to blend in your natural and false lashes and touch up with eyeliner or eyeshadow as needed.
Preparing To Prime The Eyelids
Prime your eyelids before applying any color or lash glue. A quality eye primer creates a smooth surface and keeps the shadow locked in place all day, especially if you have oily eyelids or want to make a bold, dramatic look. Primer acts as a protective shield.
Primer prevents eyeshadow from creasing and fading, allowing you to achieve a more controlled final look. Whether you want a matte or glossy finish, skipping this step can ruin your look in hours.
Eyeshadow Blending: The Key to The Perfect Look
Whether applying eye makeup before or after applying eyelashes, it’s crucial to blend eyeshadow properly. Lash imperfections — such as sudden color changes or uneven color — will be highlighted if the shadow isn’t blended well. First, blend the shade slightly darker than your skin tone into the crease. Use a fluffy brush to mix in a windshield wiper motion.
Add a dark shade to the outer corner of the eye for dimension. Blend it with your finger or a flat brush if using shimmer or glitter. Be sure to transition. Once you apply the lashes, they enhance the entire makeup, not covering up mistakes.
Eyeliner: Before or After Lashes?
The dilemma of using eyeliner is as heated as the debate over whether to apply eye makeup before or after eyelashes. Most makeup artists believe applying eyeliner before applying lashes gives the perfect look. This allows you to define the lash line more precisely, tighten the upper waterline, and create a wing that follows the shape of the eye.
After applying lashes, you can fill in the gaps between the lash bands using a liquid or gel liner. This gives a smooth and professional finish. However, using an extra-thick liner after applying lashes is not a good idea, as it can smudge or make the makeup look heavy.
Applying False Eyelashes Like A Professional
Once your eye makeup is done, focus on applying your eyelashes. Proper placement, glue, and lash selection are three fundamental aspects. First, cut your lashes according to your eye shape. Then, apply the glue and wait 30-60 seconds for it to set.
Applying lashes with tweezers or a lash applicator, especially if you’re new to using them. First, apply the oil, then gently press on the ends. Once the lashes are applied, apply a light coat of mascara to blend your natural and false lashes. Touch up with eyeliner or eyeshadow if needed.
Choosing The Right Lashes According to Eye Shape
Choosing the right lashes that complement the shape of your eyes is essential for achieving a beautiful and balanced look. If you have hooded eyes, opt for lashes that provide a high lift at the outer corner to help open up your eyes. For round eyes, choose lashes longer in the middle to create a doe-eyed effect. Almost all types of lashes suit almond eyes. Using multi-layered and curled lashes on monolid eyes creates depth and dimension.
You also need to be careful when choosing long and thick lashes. Too dramatic lashes can overpower the eyeshadow. Too short lashes can get lost in makeup. Do you prefer a natural look or a full glam look? That will determine your lash selection.
The Right Glue, Tools, and Techniques
The right glue and tools are crucial for a successful lash application. Good-quality glue dries quickly, holds firmly, and dries properly in both clear and black. Avoid using thin, slow-drying, or water-based glues.
Angled applicators or precision tweezers are more effective tools. Additionally, a magnifying mirror helps you see the different corners of your eyes. These tools help with proper lash application and balance.
Lash Post-Touch-Up For a Perfect Finish
After applying the lashes, do a final touch-up to perfect the look. Blend your natural and false lashes using mascara. Gently curl your lashes with a lash curler to make your eyes look more open.
Use a fine-tip eyeliner to redefine your lash line and cover any visible glue. If necessary, blend a light Blendr eye to create a smooth, professional-looking makeup look. This is the final step to show off your eyes.
Everyday Eye Makeup Mistakes: Before or After False Eyelashes?
When deciding whether to apply false eyelashes before or after your eye makeup, you can keep your entire look safe by avoiding a few common mistakes. One of the most common mistakes is applying false eyelashes before completing your makeup. This makes it challenging to blend eyeshadow, and powder fallout accumulates on the lashes, ruining their shine and beauty.
Another big mistake is not giving the lash glue enough time to set before applying the lashes. If the glue is still wet, the lash band can slide, running the eyeliner or shadow, making it difficult to place correctly. Similarly, applying extra mascara after applying the lashes can also cause the lashes to stick together, resulting in a heavy and unnatural appearance.
Many people avoid curling their natural lashes before applying mascara. Curling them first helps your natural and false lashes blend better. Also, applying thick eyeliner after your lashes can make you look unbalanced and increase the risk of smudging in hot or humid environments.
Skipping Primer or not Setting The Glue Properly
Many people skip primer when deciding how to apply eye makeup before or after false lashes, which is a big mistake. Eye primer helps maintain the texture and shine of eye makeup. Without it, shadows can fade or crease quickly, and the oiliness of the eyes can prevent the glue from setting properly.
Another common mistake is not giving the glue enough time to set. Many people apply lashes as soon as they use the glue, which can cause the band to slide, ruin the makeup, and leak glue onto the eyelid, ultimately ruining the entire look. Always wait 30 to 60 seconds for the glue to set and for the lashes to be applied easily.
Using Extra Mascara After Applying Lashes
While mascara helps blend natural and false lashes, overuse can ruin the look. Applying too much mascara can cause your lashes to clump together, ruin their curl, and appear heavy. Instead, apply a light coat of mascara before applying your false lashes, and use it to blend in a little later if needed.
You should also avoid using waterproof mascara, which is difficult to remove and can pull on the lash band, potentially damaging both false and natural lashes.
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Final Thoughts: Should You Apply Eye Makeup or False Eyelashes First?
Knowing whether to apply false eyelashes before or after eye makeup is key to achieving a flawless, professional finish. Following the correct sequence, starting with a clean canvas, building a shadow layer, defining with eyeliner, and finishing with lashes, will help your makeup last longer, look more appealing, and be more comfortable.
Whether you want a soft, glam look or a dramatic one, the technique makes all the difference. False eyelashes are a powerful beauty element, but must be used thoughtfully and harmoniously with your eye makeup. Remember: Prime your eyelids, blend your eyeshadow, perfect your eyeliner, let the lash glue set, then apply your lashes.
This technique ensures a perfect blend and a clean finish, requiring fewer touch-ups. Regular practice lets you perfect this skill and achieve the ideal balance of eye makeup and lash timing for any occasion.
