To apply DIY cluster lashes, brush a thin line of lash bond onto your natural lashes a millimeter or two from the lash line, wait a few seconds for it to turn tacky, then press each cluster onto the underside of your natural lashes, working from the outer corner inward. Finish by gently pressing the clusters and your own lashes together. The clusters sit on your lashes, never on the skin of the eyelid or the waterline.
What are cluster lashes?
Cluster lashes are small segments of false lash, each a few millimeters wide, with several fibers joined at a short base. Instead of one full strip across the eye, you place five to seven segments side by side. Because they are separate, you can choose lengths, leave gaps, and build a shape that suits your eye.
What do you need?
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Cluster lashes | The lashes themselves |
| Lash bond made for DIY clusters | Holds clusters to your natural lashes. Check whether your lashes include it |
| Lash applicator or tweezers | Picks up and places each cluster |
| Clean spoolie | Brushes natural lashes before and blends after |
| Oil-free cleanser | Clean lashes hold a bond |
| Lash remover | For taking them off without pulling |
| A mirror you can look down into | Lets you see the underside of your lashes |
Before you start: safety
- Patch test the bond and the remover as their labels direct, at least 24 hours before. Do not use them if your skin reacts.
- Follow the directions and wear time on your adhesive. Products differ.
- Do not apply if your eyes are irritated, infected or sore, or soon after eye surgery, unless your doctor has agreed.
- Remove contact lenses first, if the adhesive directions advise it.
- Keep adhesive off the skin, the waterline and the eye itself.
- If adhesive gets in your eye, rinse with clean water and follow the product label. Seek medical advice if irritation continues.
How to apply them, step by step
- Clean your lashes. Remove all makeup and oil, then dry them. Do not apply mascara first.
- Brush your natural lashes upward with a spoolie. Curl them if they point down.
- Plan the layout. Lay out the clusters for one eye in order: shortest for the inner corner, longer toward the middle or outer part, depending on the look.
- Apply the bond. Brush a thin coat onto your natural lashes, from near the base outward, staying one to two millimeters away from the skin.
- Wait for it to turn tacky, as the directions say. Usually a few seconds.
- Pick up the first cluster by the lash fibers, not the base.
- Look down into the mirror and place the cluster underneath your natural lashes at the outer corner, one to two millimeters from the lash line. Press up gently.
- Place the next cluster beside it, just touching or very slightly overlapping, and continue toward the inner corner.
- Fuse. Use the applicator to pinch the clusters and your natural lashes together gently along the row.
- Apply a sealant if your system includes one.
- Repeat on the other eye, matching the order of lengths.
A set with plenty to practise on
The Uexim DIY individual cluster eyelash extensions are individual clusters for at-home lash application, designed for a natural, gradual build. The lashes are made of synthetic hair, and the pack includes 32 rows, which leaves room for trial and error while you learn placement. The listing covers the lashes only, so you will need a suitable lash bond and remover.
Tips for a natural result
- Start with fewer clusters. Five per eye is plenty for a first try.
- Keep the inner corner short and light. Long lashes there poke and droop.
- Leave the first few inner lashes bare if they feel uncomfortable.
- Do not flood with bond. A thin coat holds better and feels lighter.
- Check from the side to make sure the clusters follow the curve of your own lashes.
How do you make them last and stay comfortable?
- Keep them dry for the period your adhesive's directions state.
- Avoid oil-based cleansers and creamy eye products near the lashes.
- Do not rub your eyes or pick at the clusters.
- Sleep on your back or side where you can.
- Brush gently with a clean spoolie each morning.
- Take them off within the wear time on the adhesive. Do not push past it.
How do you remove them?
- Never pull clusters off dry. That takes natural lashes with them.
- Apply the lash remover along the bond, following its directions, and wait for it to loosen.
- Slide each cluster off gently.
- Cleanse the lash line to remove residue.
- Give your natural lashes a break before the next set.
Common mistakes
- Placing clusters on the skin. It is uncomfortable and can irritate.
- Setting them too close to the lash line. Leave a small gap.
- Applying over mascara. The bond will not hold.
- Too much adhesive.
- Using clusters that are too long for your natural lashes, which weighs them down.
Frequently asked questions
Do cluster lashes go on top of or under natural lashes?
DIY clusters are usually placed underneath, which hides the bases and looks more natural.
How long do DIY cluster lashes last?
It depends on the bond. Follow the wear time on the adhesive you use.
Can I reuse clusters?
For hygiene and hold, fresh clusters are the better choice.
Are cluster lashes safe for sensitive eyes?
Patch test the adhesive first. If you have sensitive eyes or a history of reactions, speak to an eye care professional before using lash adhesives.
The bottom line
Clean lashes, a thin coat of bond, clusters placed underneath from the outer corner in, and a gentle pinch to fuse. Patch test first, keep adhesive off the skin, and always remove with remover.
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