Going to a lash salon every two weeks adds up fast. Think $80-$120 a visit, plus the time sitting in that chair. If you have ever wondered whether you can actually do lash extensions yourself at home, the answer is yes, and it is easier than you think.
DIY lash clusters have come a long way. The modern kits are designed so anyone can get salon-quality lashes at home, no training required. Here is exactly how to do it.
What You Need Before You Start
To apply DIY lash extensions at home you need three things: lash clusters, a bond and seal, and a lash applicator. A good starter kit has all of these included so you are not buying pieces separately.
Before you apply anything, make sure your lashes are:
- Clean and completely dry
- Free of mascara or any oil-based products
- Freshly curled if you have naturally straight lashes
Oil is the enemy of lash bond. A quick swipe of micellar water on a cotton pad before you start makes a big difference to how long they last.
Step 1: Choose Your Lash Style
DIY lash clusters come in different styles. At Lash Ease, the most popular are:
- Classic - clean, full, everyday wear
- Hybrid - mix of length and volume, the most natural-looking
- Wispy - feathery and textured, great for photos
- Dollie - round and wide, makes eyes look bigger
- Flair - dramatic and lifted, best for nights out
Not sure which one to pick? Hybrid is the safest starting point. It works on almost every eye shape and looks natural enough for everyday wear but still gives you visible lift and length.
Step 2: Apply the Bond
The bond is what makes your lash clusters grip to your natural lashes. Apply a thin layer of bond to your upper lash line using the wand. Start from the inner corner and work outward.
Let it sit for about 30 seconds until it goes slightly tacky. This is the sweet spot. If you try to place clusters on wet bond they will slide around. If you wait too long it dries completely and loses its grip.
Step 3: Place Your Clusters
This is where the lash applicator earns its keep. Pick up a cluster with the applicator and position it underneath your natural lashes, as close to the lash line as possible without touching the skin.
Work from the outer corner inward. Most people use 8 to 12 clusters per eye depending on the look they want. Fewer clusters for something subtle, more for a full lash look.
Press each cluster up gently so it bonds with your natural lashes. Hold for a second or two.
Step 4: Seal Them In
Once all your clusters are placed, run a thin layer of seal over the top of the lash line. This locks everything in place and is what gives you the 7 to 10 days of wear.
The seal also gives your lashes a clean finished look, blending the cluster bases together so they look more like extensions than individual pieces.
How Long Do DIY Lash Extensions Last?
With proper application and the right aftercare, DIY lash clusters last 7 to 10 days. Some people get closer to two weeks with good maintenance.
To make them last longer:
- Avoid oil-based skincare or makeup remover near the eye area
- Sleep on your back or use a silk pillowcase
- Do not rub your eyes
- Top up any loose clusters as needed rather than doing a full remove and reapply
How to Remove DIY Lash Extensions
When you are ready to take them off, apply a small amount of lash remover along the lash line and let it sit for 30 seconds. The clusters will slide off cleanly without pulling at your natural lashes.
Never pick or pull at clusters. If a cluster is not releasing easily, apply more remover and wait a bit longer.
Ready to Try?
The DIY Starter Bundle has everything you need to get started: lash clusters in your chosen style, bond and seal, and an applicator. It is designed specifically for first-timers and has everything you need in one box.
If you want more clusters and a longer supply, the DIY Lash Kit gives you a full tray so you can do multiple sets before needing to restock.
First time lash girls do it every day. You will figure it out faster than you think.