How to Apply False Lashes with Contact Lenses: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer

To apply false lashes with contact lenses, always insert your lenses first, then apply lashes using a gentle, oil-free adhesive. Remove lashes before taking out your lenses, and never let lash glue come into contact with your lenses or eyes. This order prevents contamination and keeps your eyes comfortable.

Wearing false lashes with contact lenses is a common practice, but it requires careful technique to avoid eye irritation or lens damage. Whether you're using circle lenses for a cosplay look or everyday colored lenses, the order of application and removal matters more than you might think.

This guide walks you through each step, from preparing your tools to removing your lashes at the end of the day. You'll also learn how to choose lash-friendly products and avoid common mistakes that can lead to discomfort or wasted lenses.

Why Order Matters: Lenses First, Lashes Second

The golden rule is to insert your contact lenses before applying false lashes. This ensures your eyes are protected and your lenses stay clean. If you apply lashes first, the adhesive or lash fibers can easily transfer onto your lenses when you insert them, causing blurry vision or irritation.

Removing your lenses before taking off your lashes is equally important. Pulling off lashes while lenses are still in can accidentally dislodge a lens or introduce glue residue into your eye. Always remove lashes gently, then remove your lenses with clean, dry hands.

• Insert lenses first, then apply lashes.
• Remove lashes first, then remove lenses.
• Never let lash glue touch your lenses.

Choosing Lash Adhesive and Tools

Not all lash glues are safe for contact lens wearers. Look for a latex-free, oil-free adhesive that dries flexible and doesn't flake. Oil-based glues can leave a film on your lenses that is hard to remove and may cause blurry vision. Waterproof or long-wear formulas are often better choices because they hold well without breaking down.

You'll also need a pair of clean tweezers or a lash applicator. Using your fingers can transfer oils from your skin onto the lashes, which can then migrate to your lenses. Tweezers give you more control and keep the process hygienic.

• Choose latex-free, oil-free lash glue.
• Use tweezers or a lash applicator for precision.
• Avoid oil-based makeup removers near your eyes.

Step-by-Step Application with Contacts

Start by washing and drying your hands thoroughly. Insert your contact lenses as you normally would, ensuring they are comfortable and centered. Wait a few minutes for your eyes to adjust before applying any makeup or lashes.

Apply a thin layer of lash glue along the lash band and wait about 30 seconds for it to become tacky. This prevents the lashes from sliding around. Using tweezers, place the lash as close to your natural lash line as possible. Press gently along the band to secure it, starting from the center and moving outward.

Once the lashes are in place, avoid rubbing your eyes. If you need to adjust the lash, use a clean cotton swab or your tweezers. Never pull on the lash while it's still wet, as this can cause the glue to smear and get into your eye.

• Wait for glue to become tacky before applying.
• Press from the center outward to secure the band.
• Use a cotton swab for adjustments, not your fingers.

Removing Lashes and Lenses Safely

At the end of the day, wash your hands again. Gently peel the false lashes off from the outer corner to the inner corner. Do not pull straight down or yank, as this can stress your natural lashes and potentially dislodge a contact lens.

After removing the lashes, clean any remaining glue from your lash line with a gentle, oil-free makeup remover. Then, remove your contact lenses using the proper technique—pinch the lens with your fingertips and slide it out. Never use your fingernails or tweezers to remove lenses.

If you feel any discomfort or notice your lens feels dry or gritty after lash removal, remove the lens and rinse it with contact lens solution before reinserting. If the discomfort persists, discontinue wear and consult an eye care professional.

• Peel lashes off gently from the outer corner.
• Remove lenses after lashes are completely off.
• Rinse lenses if they feel gritty after lash removal.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Contact Lens Wearers

1. Step 1: Insert your contact lenses: Wash and dry your hands, then insert your lenses using the proper technique. Ensure they are comfortable and centered before proceeding. Checkpoint: Blink a few times to make sure the lenses are not moving or causing dryness.
2. Step 2: Apply a thin layer of lash glue: Apply a thin, even layer of latex-free, oil-free lash adhesive along the lash band. Wait 30 seconds for it to become tacky. Checkpoint: The glue should be sticky but not wet—this prevents sliding and smudging.
3. Step 3: Place the lashes close to your natural lash line: Use tweezers or a lash applicator to place the lash as close to your natural lash line as possible. Press from the center outward to secure. Checkpoint: Look straight ahead in a mirror to ensure the lash is not too high or too low.
4. Step 4: Let the glue dry completely: Allow the adhesive to dry fully before opening your eyes wide or blinking forcefully. This prevents the lash from shifting. Checkpoint: Gently touch the lash with a cotton swab—if it moves, wait a bit longer.
5. Step 5: Remove lashes before lenses: At the end of the day, remove the false lashes first by peeling from the outer corner. Then remove your contact lenses. Checkpoint: If you feel any tugging, use a bit of oil-free remover to loosen the glue before pulling.

Lens and Lash Pairings That Work

• StarryEyes Brown: StarryEyes Brown circle lenses from TheDollyEye offer a subtle yet noticeable enhancement with a 15mm diameter and a natural brown tone. Diameter: 15mm for a gentle enlarging effect. Base curve: 8.6mm for a comfortable fit. Water content: 45%. With a smaller 15mm diameter, these lenses are less likely to interfere with lash application compared to larger 16mm lenses. The comfortable fit and high water content help maintain moisture, which is important when wearing lashes that can cause slight dryness.
• 10 different types of Top Eyelashes (Natural): Why pay more and get less when you can pay the same amount but have 10 different designs of Top / Upper eye lashes in a box! Now you do not have to struggle in deciding which pair of top lashes to buy anymore! We have the top 10 stunning top eye lashes design ranging from the most natural to a more drastic design, all in one box for you to bring home! These lashes are hand made from... Having a variety of natural and dramatic lash styles lets you experiment with different looks without buying multiple packs. Since these lashes are handmade, they are likely to be flexible and easy to apply, which is beneficial when you're wearing contact lenses and need precise placement.

Applying false lashes with contact lenses is easy once you follow the right order and use the right products. Always insert lenses first, apply lashes with a safe adhesive, and remove lashes before taking out your lenses. With these steps, you can enjoy a comfortable and stunning look without compromising your eye health.