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There's only so much a really great mascara can do. Sometimes you just want that gorgeous eye-popping look only eyelash extensions can provide. Though magnetic lashes are exploding in popularity, most makeup artists will tell you they still prefer traditional falsies to get the job done.
Sure, some kits come with adhesive, but to get the best, strongest hold, you'll need a good eyelash glue in your beauty toolbox. Generally, these adhesives come in two colors: clear and black. Neither one is necessarily better than the other—they just have different applications. "Clear lash glue is great if you're doing a makeup look with colored eyeliner, because it won’t muddy up your lash line and darken the look," says celebrity makeup artist Natalia Thomas. "It's also a great choice for those with natural brown or blonde lashes, as it won’t show up if you apply a bit too much." Black eyelash glue, on the other hand, is great for achieving a smoky eye or if you generally wear black liner of any kind, because it helps fill in any gaps and gives the appearance of a fuller lash line, says Thomas.
The more important determinant is strength. Though you might naturally gravitate towards the stronger formulas, Thomas says it's important for beginners to start with something a little more delicate, working their way up to the stronger, longer-lasting options the professionals rely on.
Here, a variety of eyelash glue options for extensions—individual lashes, clusters, and strips—that suit both beginners and and pros alike.
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This brush-on adhesive is great for beginners, because it's easy to apply and not so strong you can't remedy any mistakes,saysShira Aaron, a professional makeup artist in New York City. Plus, it's clear vitamin-enriched formula dries invisibly—an extra important feature if your line isn't perfect.
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Best for Sensitive Eyes
House of Lashes Lash Adhesive
Prone to red, itchy eyes?The House of Lashesformula is free of formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens, and latex, so it’sa safer optionfor people with sensitive eyes, sayscelebrity makeup artistMari Shten. Still, it's known for its long-lasting hold.
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Celebrity makeup artistNatalia Thomascalls this adhesive "super glue for your eye area," because it simply doesn't budge."Under no circ*mstances will this glue wash off—your lashes will come out if you pull on your extensions—so make sure you safely remove it with a solvent and a cotton swab."
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For weddings, this is hands-down the best adhesive, says Thomas. "It can withstand the weepiest of eyes, dancing and sweating all night, hurricane winds, and even spin class."
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If you're looking for a great black eyelash glue, this is the darkest one out there, says Thomas. Because of this, it blends seamlessly with nearly any black liner for a more dramatic and defined look.
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When it comes to clear formulas, this one can't be beat, says Thomas. It truly does dry clear—there's no yellowing—and it stays put for hours on end.
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Though a more naturallatex-free alternative to other lash adhesives, this glue "does not quit,"says Thomas. The formula lives up to its 24-hour hold promise, only slipping off with the help of the right remover.
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Thomas cautions this extra-strength lash glue isn't for beginners. You must be a pro or have pro experience to use this glue, since it can burn your eyes on contact, she explains. Still, pros love it, because it's durable,latex- and formaldehyde-free, and doesn't have the same harsh scent other comparable options do.
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This gentle, fast-drying formula is ideal forcontact lens wearers or anyone with sensitive eyes, says Thomas. It has a wand for easy application, stays put all day and night, and can beeasily removed with just warm water and a gentle tug.
