This winter, the craze is all about lashes, lashes and lashes! The new accessory to any finished beauty look, lashes of all shapes, colours and materials are emerging in the marketplace and is the must-have product for makeup artists. However, most of us don’t know how to apply lashes or the basics behind this eye-enhancing product. Well, don’t worry, I’m here to provide you with tips and advice.
Lash Wear
Have you ever worn a pair of lashes and feel like they are constantly poking you? If yes, you’re either placing them too close to the inner corner of your eye or they are too long.
Many women are unfamiliar or inexperienced when it comes to lash care. I could write chapters on this topic, but in this instance, that would be impractical. So I will give you the basics on false lashes.
First step is to measure your falsies to your eye length. Hold the lashes up to your natural lash line, placing the inner corner a few hair strands away from the natural lash line, the part sticking out on the outer corner can be trimmed. If you feel like you’re cutting too much off, don’t worry, you can always use the cut piece and double up on the outer corner. Note: always cut from the outer corner.
Next, bend your lashes in a C shape for a few moments. This will help the lashes go on more smoothly.
Take minimum amount of glue on a cotton swab and wait for 30-45 seconds. You want the glue to be tactile and sticky.
Once applied, let the glue fully dry. Apply your mascara, re-apply eyeliner if needed and you’re good to go!
Completing Your Look
Eye lashes, false or real, can really complete your overall look; weather it’s day time, evening, bridal and so forth. We are drawn to the drama, the depth and the beauty, which the eyes possess.
When it comes to lashes, the majority of us require comfort, fullness and lightweight, so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing them, which is a huge bonus. I found a Vancouver-based company called Love for Lashes, which offers a diverse range of lashes that fits the criteria I mentioned earlier. Love for Lashes products are designed with the almighty goddesses in mind, and the lashes sure do live up to their fierce names. My personal favourite is the Athena lashes, perfect for achieving that natural and seductive Kim K look.
If you’re feeling indulgent go for their luxury line, 100 per cent cruelty-free Siberian Mink lashes, which is beyond comfortable and extremely attractive. If the monthly budget doesn’t allow you to splurge don’t fret, check out their ‘Pink’ false eyelash line, it’s affordable and fashionably designed.
You can get anything from a dramatic diva look to the natural girl next door – there is something for everyone at Love for Lashes. Don’t wait to get those perfect lashes for the holiday season; you’ll be happy that you did and they make great gifts for your girlfriends, who will simply love you! Check out http://loveforlashes.ca/
How to Counteract Tired Eyes
As corny as it sounds, your eyes tell people about the way you feel! If your eyes are tired, you’re most likely feeling a bit beat; if your eyes look relaxed, then you’re most likely feeling relaxed; and lastly, if your eyes are gleaming with joy, you’re most likely in love…you get the point!
However, sometimes we are tired but have already made prior commitments to attend functions, social gatherings, dinner dates and so forth. You ask yourself ‘When will this end?’ In January, of course! So in the meantime, pick up your energy and try these tricks and tips to counteract fatigued looking eyes.
If you’re going for the more natural “I didn’t have to spend hours getting ready look,” then line the upper rim of your eye by lightly pushing your eyelid up and take brown or black pencil liner and line the rim. This will make your lashes appear thicker and fuller. Warning: this application may tickle the first few times.
To brighten tired eyes, highlight the inner corner of the eye with a light eyeshadow. I use Jest by MAC or Buff 35 by Make Up For Ever.
If you have a problem with dark circles, then avoid any deep purple or blue eye shadows, as this will only increase the appearance of darkness under the eyes.
Need to get ride of bags or reduce swelling? Take two cotton balls, dip in cold milk and place on your eyes for a few minutes. Rinse and relax, or rinse and get your face on!
Lastly, play up your lips! If you spend some time lining and colouring your lips, it will act as a good distraction from your eyes.
By Vanita Chandra
PHOTO: Love for Lashes/Liz Rosa, MAC Cosmetics