Strip Lashes

Strip lashes are a single, connected lash band with the fibres pre-set onto a flexible base — the most beginner-friendly false-lash format. To apply: first, measure the lash against your eye and trim any excess width from the outer end. Gently flex the band back and forth to soften it. Apply a thin, even line of lash glue along the band and wait 30 seconds for it to become tacky. Look down into a mirror and place the lash as close to your natural lash line as possible, pressing the inner, middle and outer points to secure. Finish with eyeliner to mask the band.

Hold the lash up to your closed eye, lining up the inner edge with the start of your natural lashes (not all the way at the tear duct). The lash should end at or just before the outer corner of your eye. Mark or eyeball where the lash overhangs, then trim from the outer edge — never the inner — using small, sharp scissors. Cut in tiny snips between the lash fibres to keep the natural taper. Removing too much can flatten the silhouette, so trim 1-2 mm at a time and recheck the fit. The result should sit comfortably across your full lash line.

With a good-quality lash adhesive, a pair of strip lashes will last comfortably for 8 to 16 hours of wear — easily a full work day or night out. We don't recommend sleeping in strip lashes. The pressure of a pillow can bend the fibres out of shape, glue residue can transfer to the eye area overnight, and bacteria can build up on the band. Always remove the lashes before bed, gently clean them, and store them in their original tray to keep the curl. With proper care, a single pair of MODELROCK strip lashes can be reused 15 to 25 times.

Cleaning is what keeps lashes looking new for 20+ wears. After removing the lash, gently peel any glue residue from the band by pinching it with your fingers or tweezers — the dried strip lifts off in one piece. If you wore mascara or eyeliner, dip a cotton bud in micellar water (avoid oil-based removers, which weaken the fibres) and gently clean the band and base of the fibres. Pat dry with a clean tissue, never rub. Lay the lashes back onto the original plastic tray to hold their curl, and replace the lid. Stored well, MODELROCK strip lashes last for many wears.

The best lash glue is one that's strong, latex-free if you have sensitivities, and gives you a workable tack time of around 30 seconds before it sets. Brush-on applicators tend to be easier to control than squeeze-on tubes, especially for beginners. Apply a thin, even line along the entire band, paying special attention to the inner and outer corners, where lashes most often lift. Always wait until the glue turns from white to tacky-clear before placing the lash. For all-day events, a bond-and-seal system is the most reliable. We stock matching adhesives in our Lash Glue and Tools section.