Sick of Lash Glue? Try One of These Magnetic Lashes Instead

written by MELANIE RUD

UPDATED DEC 16, 2020

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We’re all for lash extensions or a good set of falsies. But when you can’t get in to see a pro for a set of extensions, and/or don’t want the hassle of dealing with the often-annoying false lash and glue combo, magnetic lashes offer the perfect alternative. Like DIY falsies, they instantly make for a more dramatic eye-opening effect—there’s just no adhesive required. Instead, they stick to lashes via, you guessed it, tiny magnets.

There are two types of magnetic lashes: Ones that you apply above and below your natural lashes and snap together, and ones that you attach via a magnetic eyeliner, explains Rochelle Magno, VaultBeauty member and owner of The Lash Gallery. “Either way, they’re much easier and faster to apply than traditional falsies,” she says. “There’s no waiting time for the adhesive to become tacky before applying the lashes, and they’re also less messy.” FYI, the application method does take a little bit of getting used to, but the end result is way worth it.

Here, the best magnetic lashes available.

Best Overall: Eylure ProMagnetic Eyelashes & Eyeliner System

If you can master applying a liquid liner, you can apply these lashes. Happily, the thin brush on this one (which contains iron oxides, so that the magnets in the lashes stick to it) makes it easy to swipe on. For best results, build up your line to be as thick as the lash strip and use several coats, letting it dry completely. Then simply pop on the lashes, which are full and fluttery. The process can be done in five minutes, the lashes can be reused up to 15 times, and the price point is great.

Best Budget: Kiss Magnetic Crowd Pleaser Faux Mink Lashes

These wallet-friendly lashes boast five double-strength magnets and last up to 16 hours when applied correctly. (FYI, you do need to use them with the magnetic eyeliner, sold separately, for best results.) Happy Ulta reviewers love ‘em, repeatedly commenting on how comparable these are to much pricier options. 

Best for Beginners: AsaVea Magnetic Eyeliner and Magnetic Eyelash Kit

Not sure you have the hand-eye coordination to master magnetic lashes? Try this kit, which has everything you need to ensure success. The eyeliner-based system comes with a super ergonomic and smartly-shaped applicator tool (it kind of looks like a crazy tweezer). It grips and positions the strip of lashes perfectly, and the lashes are housed in a compact that comes with an included mirror that makes it easy to see exactly what you’re doing.https://fa63f84f14b60fe47bf3470f22a7b489.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html

Best Dramatic Look: Ardell Magnetic Liner & Lash Kit, Lash 110

Makeup artists, beauty editors, and consumers alike love Ardell’s line-up of false lashes for being affordable, natural-looking, and easy-to-apply; this magnetic option from the brand checks all of those same boxes. There are eight mini magnets, strategically placed so that the lashes lay seamlessly flat along your lash line and blend in perfectly, but still offer a dramatic pop.https://fa63f84f14b60fe47bf3470f22a7b489.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html

Best Natural Look: One Two Cosmetics Natural Accent Lash

Fun fact: This was the first brand to introduce magnetic eyelashes. They have a whole host of options, ranging from natural to dramatic, but we’re especially partial to this natural accent lash. Just like adding a few traditional falsies to the outer corners of your eyes can make a big impact (in a subtle way), these do exactly the same, adding a beautiful lift and the slightest touch of curl, perfect when you want to amp up your eye look ever so slightly. They’re also incredibly lightweight.

Best Style Options: EARLLER Magnetic Eyelash & Eyeliner Kit

BUY ON AMAZON

Those who love magnetic lashes and enjoy wearing them on the reg should consider this Amazon favorite, which comes with a whopping array of 10 different styles that run the gamut from subtle to statement-making. Each strip has five magnets spread out to evenly and smoothly attach to the waterproof magnetic liner, of which you get two tubes.https://fa63f84f14b60fe47bf3470f22a7b489.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html

Best Magnets Only: LaFabs Premium Magnetic Eyelash Set

As mentioned, magnetic lashes either work by sandwiching together or via a magnetic liner. The former offers the added benefit of eliminating a step in your routine, and may also help ensure the entire strip of lashes stays completely secure. This particular option denotes the magnets on the lashes with helpful dots, so you can tell not only which lash goes on top and bottom, but also which set goes on which eye. There’s also a helpful applicator tool included as well, and a convenient carrying case.

Best With Liner: LashLiner Magnetic Eyeliner & Lash System

On the flip side, while opting for a liner-based system may take a little bit longer, many proponents will ultimately say that it feels more lightweight since there are fewer magnets on your lashes. This rich black liner goes on smoothly, and is not only waterproof but also latex- and paraben-free, a nice option if you have sensitive eyes. It works perfectly as a base for these soft lashes, which have the added benefit of being easily trimmable from both sides.

Best Reusable: MoxieLash Sassy Lash

Technically speaking most, if not all, magnetic lashes should be reusable at least a few times, so long as you’re removing and storing them properly. However, these guys take the cake, lasting for up to 30 wears. There’s also no shortage of options to pick from, but this particular one is one of the best-sellers, flattering on all eye shapes and offering the perfect amount of drama.

Final Verdict

The Eyelure ProMagnetic Eyeliner & Faux Mink Accent System nabs the coveted top spot in our list—not only for the ease of application but also for the quality of the lashes and the fact that they can be reused up to 15 times. The Ardell Magnetic Lashes are great for anyone who’s after a more dramatic lash look; the One Two Cosmetics Natural Lash, the OG option of the entire magnetic lash category, are great for those who prefer a more subdued effect. (It’s worth noting that the Eylure pick is applied via a magnetic liner, while the other two have mini magnetics built into the bases of the lashes to snap together.) And if it’s a variety of styles you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the EARLLER Magnetic Eyelash & Eyeliner Kit, a wallet-friendly Amazon favorite.

What to Look For In a Pair of Magnetic Lashes

Size and Style

Just like with any falsies, it’s important to choose not only a band size that works with your eye shape but to also consider the style of lash you want. They range from wispy and subtle to bold and very dramatic, so be sure to take into account the end result you’re going for, first and foremost.

Material

Again, like with traditional falsies, there are multiple options to choose from, including synthetic, mink, and more. The material of the lash will affect not only how it looks, but can also affect the quality and how long it lasts, as well as the price point.

Type of Adhesive

As mentioned, you have one of two choices. Those that come with a magnetic liner may be slightly easier to apply for many (so long as you’re good at putting on eyeliner). For those who don’t love the look of eyeliner, however, options that work by sandwiching your natural fringe in between two magnetic sets of lashes are usually preferred. 

FAQs

How do you apply magnetic lashes?

Step one, wash your hands. If you’re using the type that’s applied on both the top and bottom of your natural lashes, apply the top set as close to the lash line as you can, then place the second set underneath so that the magnets connect, suggests Magno. (She adds that some products come with an applicator that makes it easier to sandwich the two together simultaneously.) If you’re using ones that come with a magnetic liner, apply the liner as you would any traditional liner, creating as straight of a line as possible, she says. The particular product you’re using will likely indicate how many coats of liner you need before you can press the lashes to the liner.

Are magnetic lashes safe?

According to Magno, yes, they are. That being said, as with any cosmetic product, there’s always a risk of an allergic reaction, as well as infection if they’re not used correctly and carefully, she says. Applying them properly (and washing your hands before doing so), keeping the lashes themselves clean, and practicing simple hygiene steps, like not sharing them with others, can go a long way towards mitigating this risk. 

How do you clean magnetic lashes?

First and foremost, always hold them by the band rather than the lashes, in order to avoid distorting or damaging them, suggests Magno. Soak them in a container filled with a small amount of oil-free makeup remover for a minute or so, then use a cotton round soaked in makeup remover to remove any additional residue from the lashes and bands. If you want to be extra thorough, soak a cotton pad in isopropyl rubbing alcohol and wipe them down with that afterward. Comb through the hairs with a clean mascara wand and let them air dry on a clean paper towel before placing them back into their box or storage case, Magno says.