First Time Applying DIY Lashes? Complete Beginner's Guide

Welcome to the World of DIY Lashes — You've Got This!

If you've been eyeing lash extensions but the price tag or salon commitment has put you off, DIY lash ribbons are your answer. They look just as stunning, cost a fraction of the price, and once you've done it a couple of times, the whole process takes under five minutes. Sound too good to be true? Read on — we promise it isn't.

This guide is written specifically for first-timers. We'll walk you through everything: what to buy, how to prep, how to apply, and how to remove your lashes safely. By the end, you'll feel completely ready to give it a go.

Step 1: Choose the Right Lash for You

Before anything else, you need the right lash. As a beginner, we recommend starting with something that feels manageable and forgiving. Here's what to consider:

• Length: If you're new to lashes, start with 12mm — it's the most natural-looking length and easiest to work with. You can always go longer once you're comfortable.
• Style: A half lash (applied to the outer corner only) is much easier to place than a full lash strip and still gives a gorgeous lifted effect.
• Pre-glued vs. traditional: If you want the simplest possible start, our Pre-Glued No Faff Lashes come with adhesive already on the band — no separate glue required. They're genuinely the easiest DIY lash on the market.

Not sure which style suits your eye shape? Check out our guide on what lash style best accentuates hooded eyes for personalised advice.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You don't need much to get started. Here's your beginner kit checklist:

• Your chosen lash ribbons
• Lash adhesive (if not using pre-glued) — our Black Glue Strips or Clear Lash Bond are great starting points
• A mirror (a magnifying mirror is a game-changer)
• Tweezers or a lash applicator tool
• Scissors (for trimming if needed)

Our Supreme Starter Kit includes everything you need in one box — perfect if you want to skip the guesswork.

Step 3: Prep Your Natural Lashes

Good prep makes all the difference. Before applying:

1. Cleanse your lashes — remove any mascara, oil, or residue. Oil is the enemy of lash adhesive, so make sure your lashes are completely clean and dry. (Our lash cleaning guide has tips on this.)
2. Curl your natural lashes — a quick curl helps your natural lashes blend seamlessly with the ribbon.

Step 4: Cut Your Lash Ribbons

With a pair of sharp scissors trim your Lash Ribbon into segments ensuring no extra band is sticking out at either side of the segment

Step 5: Apply Your Lashes

This is the part that feels daunting the first time — but it gets easier every single time, we promise.

For Pre-Glued Lashes:

1. Peel the lash from the tray avoiding contact with the bond area.  Ensure the segment is positioned correctly in your applicator.
   
2. Look down into your mirror (not straight ahead — this is the trick!).
3. Place the lash as close to your natural lash line as possible, approx 10mm above the waterline, and pull up against the natural lash.
4. Squeeze lightly on the bond area repeatedly until any stickiness dissipates.

For Lash Ribbons with Separate Adhesive:

1. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the base of your natural lash (you can also apply adhesive to the band of the segment).
2. Wait 20-30 seconds for the glue to become tacky — this is crucial. Wet glue won't grip properly.
3. Look down into your mirror.
4. Place the segment close to your lash line approx 10mm above waterline and pull up against natural lash.
5. Repeat this process until all segments are applied
6. Then clamp with your applicator at the base of the lash, holding for 10–15 seconds.

Step 6: Blend and Finish

Once your lashes are on and dry, use your fingertip or a clean spoolie to gently press your natural lashes up into the segment.

Step 7: Removal — Do It Gently!

Once you are ready to remove your lashes, whether it is after a few days or a couple of weeks, removal is just as important as application. Never pull lashes off dry — this can damage your natural lashes.

1. Soak a cotton pad in an oil-based makeup remover or use our remover.
2. Hold it gently against your lash line for 20–30 seconds to dissolve the adhesive.
3. Slide the lash segment off gently from the outer corner inward.
4. Clean any remaining adhesive from the band so you can reuse your lashes.

PLEASE NOTE IF YOU ARE REMOVING PRE-GLUED LASHES  YOU CAN EASILY DO THIS WITHOUT ANY REMOVER…JUST GENTLY PERL THE LASHES OFF

First-Timer Tips to Remember

• Don't rush. Give yourself 10–15 minutes the first time. You'll be down to 5 minutes before you know it, or seconds if using pre-glued
• Look down, not straight ahead when placing the lash — it gives you a much better angle.
• Wait for the glue to get tacky before placing. This is the most common beginner mistake.
• Practice makes perfect. Your second attempt will be noticeably better than your first.

Ready to Start?

The best way to build confidence is to just go for it. Browse our full range of beginner-friendly lashes and starter kits, and remember — every lash lover was a first-timer once. You've got this! 💕