Quick answer: The secret to applying magnetic lashes with ease is to put them on "backwards"—place the longer section toward the inner corner of your eye and the shorter section toward the outer corner. Set them slightly above your natural lash line so the magnets can pull them down into place, then sandwich the top and bottom pieces together around your own lashes. No glue required.
Key takeaways
- Apply them "backwards": longer part in front, shorter part at the outer edge—this can align far more naturally on many eye shapes.
- Start slightly high: place the lashes just above your lash line, because the magnets will pull them down.
- No glue, no fuss: nothing to stick in your eye and no latex glue to hunt for—great for sensitive eyes.
- Practice pays off: a few tries is all it takes to find the placement that suits your eye shape.
Magnetic lashes are everywhere right now, and so are the videos of people fighting to get them on. Makeup artist Nikol Johnson felt the same frustration everyone describes on Instagram and YouTube—until she realized she was applying hers a little differently, and it just worked. In this tutorial she walks through her simple trick using Ardell magnetic lashes, a line she reaches for constantly for brides, clients, and red-carpet looks. Her personal favorite, the Demi Whispies, now comes in a magnetic version too.
How do magnetic lashes actually work?
Unlike a single strip lash, magnetic lashes come two pieces to a pair. The two halves are designed to sandwich your own natural lashes in between—one piece sits on top and the other underneath, and the magnets snap them together. There is no adhesive involved at all. To take them off, you simply roll or push the two pieces apart with your fingers, so you are not tugging or ruining the lashes each time you remove them.
What is the secret trick to applying magnetic lashes?
The trick is to apply them the opposite of how you would expect. Instead of running the lash from short to long like a winged liner, Nikol places the longer section toward the front (inner corner) and the shorter section at the outer edge. For her eye shape it lined up beautifully and made the whole process easier. Here is how to do it:
- Curl and apply mascara to your natural lashes first so the magnetic lashes have something to grip.
- Take the top lash piece and position it with the longer section toward the inner corner of your eye.
- Anchor that inner starting point close to where your natural lashes begin, so the look stays natural.
- Set the lash slightly above your natural lash line—the magnets will pull it down into place, so starting low can leave it looking droopy.
- Bring the bottom piece up underneath your lashes until you feel the magnets connect and snap together.
- Gently adjust the pair down onto your lash line, then repeat on the other eye.
If the front section feels a touch too long for your eye, trim it slightly on an angle to create a softer, fringed edge.
Which Ardell magnetic lash style should you try?
Nikol demonstrates four styles from the Ardell magnetic collection, each with a different vibe:
- Double Whispies: a more glam, slightly longer lash that does not wing out much—ideal if you want a "wow" factor.
- Double 10s: the pair she wore for filming—not too dense or heavy, though remember two layers create a slightly darker lash line.
- Double Demi: her studio go-to, loved for the way it wings out—now available in magnetic form.
- Accent styles (001): shorter, denser pieces for a partial lash, perfect if you find a full lash harder to apply.
How do you remove magnetic lashes without damaging them?
Removal is refreshingly simple. Because the two pieces are only held together by magnets, you just roll them between your fingers or gently push them apart—no peeling and no adhesive to break down. That means the lashes stay intact and reusable, and there is no stinging, burning, or sticky residue left behind on your eyes.
Magnetic lashes are genuinely fun once the technique clicks: no glue, no stinging, no burning. They are not a big investment, so you can practice at home and feel a little more glamorous whenever you like. Nikol's main tip stands—work with your own eye shape, and do not be afraid to apply them "the wrong way." For more beauty picks, explore our best sellers or browse the full makeup collection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the secret trick to applying magnetic lashes?
Apply them backwards. Instead of running the lash from short to long like a winged liner, place the longer section toward the inner corner of your eye and the shorter section toward the outer edge. Many people find this lines up more naturally and makes the two magnetic pieces far easier to snap together around their own lashes.
Do magnetic lashes need glue?
No. Magnetic lashes use tiny magnets instead of adhesive. Two pieces sandwich your natural lashes between them and snap together, so there is no glue to apply, dry, or accidentally get in your eye. This makes them a comfortable, mess-free option, especially if you dislike the feel or smell of traditional lash adhesive.
Are magnetic lashes good for sensitive eyes or a latex allergy?
They can be a great choice. Because there is no adhesive involved, you avoid hunting for latex-free glue and worrying about irritation from glue near your eyes. Nikol notes there is no stinging or burning during wear. If you have a known allergy or eye condition, check the product details and patch test first.
How do I remove magnetic lashes without ruining them?
Gently roll or push the two magnetic pieces apart with your fingers—do not peel or pull hard. Since only the magnets hold them together, they separate easily and stay intact, so you can clean and reuse them. Store the pair together so the two halves do not get separated between wears.
Why do my magnetic lashes look droopy?
You may be placing them too low. The magnets naturally pull the lashes downward once connected, so if you start right at or below your lash line they can settle too far down. Position the lashes slightly above your natural lash line and let the magnets draw them into place for a lifted, secure fit.
