Every once in a while it’s nice to add a little oomph to your makeup look by wearing false eyelashes. For those who’ve had to deal with the pain of using tacky glue to get the lash look they want, deal no more.
Magnetic eyelashes offer a way to apply and wear false eyelashes without the sticky and painful situation caused by lash glue.
What are magnetic eyelashes?
Magnetic eyelashes are a less fussy alternative to the traditional glue-adhesive eyelashes. Until recently, false eyelashes were kept in place by applying glue to them, waiting for the glue to dry to the “right” consistency, then placing the false lashes near your natural lash line.
While eyelash glue gets the job done, it can be messy, sticky and shortens the lifespan for reusing the lashes. Magnetic false eyelashes provide two application methods that are simple and effective without the mess: magnetic eyeliner and “sandwiching.”
How to put on magnetic eyelashes
Magnetic eyelashes are made with teeny magnetic bars installed along the lash line. You can apply the magnetic lashes in two ways: By attaching them to magnetic eyeliner or by “sandwiching” your natural lashes between two sets of magnetic lashes.
When attempting either of these application methods, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly before touching anything near your eyes. You should also ensure a comfortable fit line by trimming the false lashes down to match the width of your natural lashes.
Using magnetic eyeliner
To achieve this method, it’s recommended to apply the eyeliner along the lash line before adhering the magnetic lashes. Magnetic eyeliner contains iron oxides, a pigmented mineral commonly found in cosmetics.
By slightly increasing iron oxide levels in the eyeliner, it becomes magnetic. Iron oxides are cosmetic pigments that can be used in products applied around the eyes.
Once you apply a relatively thick coat of eyeliner and allow it to dry, the little magnets on the false eyelashes should line up and stick to the liner. If you need to adjust the lashes, simply pull them away from the magnetic eyeliner and place them in the desired location.
“Sandwiching” magnetic eyelashes
If eyeliner isn’t your thing, you can still get the benefit of magnetic eyelashes. This method involves an upper and lower set of lashes for each eye.
Here are the steps for sandwiching magnetic eyelashes:
- Some users apply a light coat of mascara before applying magnetic lashes.
- Place the “top” set of magnetic eyelashes on the top side of your natural ones, as close to the lash line as possible without touching the skin of the eyelid.
- Next, take the “bottom” set of lashes and line them up beneath your natural eyelashes.
- The magnets on the top and bottom set should click together, sandwiching your natural lashes in the middle.
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What are the risks of magnetic eyelashes?
Magnetic eyelashes may be an option for some people, but they may cause irritation or other problems if they are not applied, removed and cleaned carefully. As with other false eyelashes, proper use and hygiene are important.
Potential risks of magnetic eyelashes
There are some potential risks that come with wearing magnetic eyelashes. They may include:
- Irritation
- Allergic reaction
- Eyelid pinching upon lash application
- Lash fallout
- Ingrown eyelashes (trichiasis)
- Eyelid fatigue
- Corneal abrasion
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to evaluate your condition.
When buying a pair of magnetic eyelashes, check out what material is used to create the lashes. False eyelashes may be made from human hair or synthetic fibers, which may cause irritation.
If you are scheduled for an MRI, remove magnetic eyelashes beforehand. Because MRI scans use a magnetic field, wearing magnetic lashes during the scan could cause injury or complications.
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What are the risks of magnetic eyeliners?
Magnetic eyeliner is used around the eyes, so it is important to use it carefully and to follow product directions. These products may contain iron oxides and other ingredients commonly used in cosmetics, but some people may still experience irritation or allergic reactions.
If you have sensitive skin or known reactions to cosmetic ingredients or metals, testing a small amount on another area of skin first may help identify irritation before using it near the eyes.
Potential risks of magnetic eyeliner
Magnetic eyeliner can also come with some potential risks, including:
- Eyelid irritation (dermatitis)
- Allergic reaction
- Eyelid infection (blepharitis)
- Eye injury if applied while moving (in the car, on the bus, etc.)
- Stye development
It’s important to follow safety precautions when performing any task involving the eyes, such as applying eye makeup or inserting or removing contact lenses.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to evaluate your condition.
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How to remove magnetic eyelashes
Magnetic eyelashes should be removed carefully, as damage to the natural eyelashes can occur.
If you used the sandwich application method, avoid pulling both sets of eyelashes off at once. This can cause lash loss and damage to the lash follicle. With clean hands, gently pry the top magnets away from the bottom magnets. After the first few are separated, the rest can usually be removed more gradually.
If you applied the lashes using a magnetic eyeliner, use an oil-based eye makeup remover and carefully wipe off the magnetic eyeliner. As it dissolves, the magnetic lashes are likely to come off more easily.
If you plan to reuse your magnetic lashes you can use micellar water or gentle soap to wash the lashes and prolong their lifespan.
Safety tips for using magnetic eyelashes
To help your eyes and natural lashes stay healthy and fresh, experts suggest the following safety tips when using magnetic lashes:
- If a product causes irritation, stop using it immediately and remove it from your eyes.
- Avoid false eyelashes, eyeliner or mascara if you have any kind of irritation or infection in or near the eye(s).
- Wash your hands before applying and removing false eyelashes. Avoid touching your eyes throughout the day to adjust or secure the lashes.
- Make sure the lashes are clean before applying them.
- Sharing your magnetic eyelashes with anyone or borrowing used lashes from someone else is not recommended.
- Follow the recommended expiration date on the magnetic eyeliner. Do not use expired eyeliner on your eyes.
- Try using partial eyelash strips or dividing your magnetic lashes into sections and only using the sections you need. One-third of the eye’s width is recommended for a natural-looking result.
- Avoid wearing false eyelashes every day. Take breaks between wear sessions so lashes can breathe and rest.
