No makeup look is complete without full voluminous lashes. They make eyes bigger, brighter, sexier, and ultimately can change the shape to an alluring Sophia Loren cat eye with the right technique. So to help you get that feminine look of lush lashes, we gathered the best tips and makeup products that will create the perfect false-lash effect.

Pamper your lashes

Just like your hair and brows, your lashes need that little bit of extra care as well to be strong, long, and thick. There are various lash thickening serums on the market, but our team’s absolute favorite is plain castor oil. Castor oil is known for its lengthening and thickening superpowers, and besides being a very affordable way to help your lashes grow, it is also a very natural way. Just simply put a few drops of castor oil (or olive oil, whichever you prefer) with a help of a brush to your lashes. After leaving it on your lashes for a few hours or overnight, gently wash it off with lukewarm water or makeup remover. Your lashes will be thicker and longer in a few weeks, without any harmful chemicals.

Latisse is another way to get the lenthy thicker lashes you desire, but this of course comes with a hefty price tag… anywhere between $120 – $180 for a 3 ml. bottle depending where you purchase from. This has been my choice for my lashes, and hands down works!! The only downside is that you must remain consistent applying it daily before your makeup, or your lashes will go back to their original state. You’ll see results in about 6-8 weeks.

Pro Tip: These methods also work perfectly with eyebrows! If you have accidentally over-tweezed your eyebrows or simply want them to be thicker, use a few drops of castor oil once or twice a week or Latisse every day.

Finding the perfect mascara

If we could only use one makeup item for the rest of our lives, mascara is at the top of the list because it gives an instant volume to your look and even the smallest lashes can be pumped into smoldering lashes with the help of the right mascara!

The right color:
For a more natural daytime look, choose a dark brown mascara that will subtly accentuate your look without giving your lashes that “fake” black effect. On the flip side, if you are going for a glamorous party look, make sure to try unique mascaras with glitters or with a hint of color (such as dark blue or purple).
The right wand:
Don’t worry if you are lost in the maze of mascaras, choose the correct wand, and depending on the shape, it will help you achieve the desired look you crave. If you have straighter lashes, choose a wand with a curly to it. If you want a thickening effect, choose a “chubby” wand. Need lengthening? Skinny wands are best.

Our favorites:

Makeup Forever Smokey Lash

Mac Extra Dimension 3D Backlash

Loreal Paris Voluminous Mascara

Dior Diorshow Mascara

Extra tips for gorgeous lashes:

Eyelash primer – You can now not only prime your face, eyelids, and lips, but your eyelashes as well! Besides giving staying power to your mascara, eyelash primers also have a thickening and lengthening effect that will help you achieve perfectly sweet doe eyes.

Eyelash curler – This is a must- have tool for any girl that wants big “opened” eyes. Eyes look alive and bright when using a curler. Shuemura is my favorite. Definitely a cult classic.

Setting Spray – At the finish of your makeup application, don’t forget to use a setting spray to prevent any smudges., Leave that look for the raccoons!