Material: faux mink | Reusable: single-use, 5-day wear
Easiest Application: MAC 81 Charmer False Lashes
Why we love it: Ok, so get this: MAC’s 81 Charmer False Lashes boast all the natural beauty of clusters but are united by a single band to make application extra easy. These are ideal for people who want the subtlety of buildable clusters but aren’t necessarily patient. They don’t come with tweezers or glue, so grab a tube of MAC’s Duo Lash Adhesive before you head to checkout.
Material: synthetic hair | Reusable: yes, uses unspecified
Best Splurge: Pro Lash Volume Luxe XL No. 12 False Lashes
Why we love it: Complete with three sets of lashes (12 separate clusters total), Pro Lash’s Volume Luxe XL No. 12 False Lashes offer up to 10 days of wear per set—meaning you’re getting your money’s worth, and then some. These falsies are soft and comfortable, striking the perfect balance between bold and understated—the ideal mix of drama and demure. This pack doesn’t come with glue or tweezers, but if you want to drop a few more bucks, you can get the complete set, which just so happened to win a 2023 Best of Beauty Award.
Material: N/A | Reusable: single-use, 10-day wear
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of wearing lash clusters?
“Lash clusters are, honestly, at the end of the day, just more comfortable than a full strip lash,” says New York City-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard. “Because they’re individually placed, there’s no tugging or pulling on the eyelid or lashes, and so for longwear, lash clusters are just much more wearable than a traditional strip.” If you’ve been steering clear of falsies due to fear of discomfort, lash clusters might be your perfect match.
Spickard also likes their durability and customizability. “Lash clusters blend into the natural lashes much more seamlessly than a strip lash. Because you can place the clusters right into the lash line, they blend right in and can be almost completely undetectable.” Plus, their versatility makes them a standout. “I love the flexibility you have with lash clusters. You can customize your own lash to your taste—from super natural to super dramatic, wispy, spiky, or whatever you want because you’re building your own lash.”
How should I apply lash clusters?
No matter the type of lashes you opt for, there’s a right way to apply them. And if you’re feeling daunted by the process, you’re certainly not alone. Thankfully, Joanna Simkin, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist, guided us through her falsie application steps. Read on for her words of wisdom.
Prepare your supplies
Get everything lined up and ready to go—falsies, tweezers, eyeliner, glue, mirror, etc.
Trim the eyelash strips
Measure the falsies against your actual eyelid and figure out where to trim off the excess.
Apply the lash glue
Line the inside of the falsie with not-too-much-not-too-little glue and let it rest for about 30 seconds or until it feels tacky. Pro tip: Bend your lashes to make the ends touch, so they have fewer chances of lifting.
Pull out the mirror
Place your mirror under your face at a perpendicular angle before looking down, allowing peak clarity for observing your eyelid and helping you to place the strip more easily and comfortably.
Apply eyeliner
Once the falsies are on, Simkin recommends applying liquid eyeliner (only where you need to!) to camouflage and blend the falsie bands into your lash line.
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?