Half Lashes: Why People Are Cutting False Eyelashes in Half

If you are a frequent false lash user, cutting eyelashes is not entirely new. Just like in clothing, one size does not fit all. Each eye is unique, meaning some false lashes made in one size may need help adjusting to different eye shapes. Trimming an edge here or there is sometimes necessary to achieve the most comfortable and attractive fit for your lash line. 

But today, we want to dive into the half lash trend sweeping the beauty community. We aren’t just talking trims; we’re cutting the false lash completely in half! 

This might seem a little crazy, because why only get half the benefits when you pay for a whole lash? But we see the method behind the madness here. Let’s get into everything about the half lash and why so many people are willing to put their beloved falsies under the knife (or scissors).

What Are Half Lashes? 

Half lashes are exactly what they sound like –- half of a false eyelash. Initially, half lashes were created by users cutting their own false lashes in half to achieve specific looks. Since the trend has gained popularity, some companies have even begun producing and selling half lashes or segments of false eyelashes that can be glued to the lash line wherever the wearer needs an extra lash boost.

Usually, half lashes are applied to the outer corners of the eye for an elegant your-eyelashes-but-better look. Stick around, and we will teach you how to get this highly beloved look for yourself.

Why Do People Make Half Lashes?

Given their immense popularity, it’s not surprising that chopping your precious false lashes might work for you. Here are some of the reasons why lash users are so dedicated to the half lash look and why you might want to give them a try: 

1. Beginner-Friendly

If you are a true beginner when it comes to false lashes, welcome! We are so glad you are joining us! But if you are a beginner, a half lash might be just what you need to get comfortable with the feeling of an extra lash band on your eyelid. False lashes, especially the more dramatic styles, can feel a little heavy and awkward during your first couple of uses. This is totally normal!

If you want some easy application practice and less strain on your fresh eyes, a half lash is much easier to manipulate and has a significantly shorter lash band. This way, you have to worry as much about gluing an entire lash perfectly onto your lash line. 

Additionally, a half lash is much more subtle than a full lash, so it will be easier to incorporate into a variety of your makeup looks while you refine your lash application skills. Practice makes perfect!

2. Comfortability

Whether you’re a novice or a veteran false lash user, comfort is always key. Any long-time wearer can tell you that having a comfortable false lash is crucial to being able to wear them all day (and all night) long. 

Half lashes are perfect for sustained eye comfort because they create less weight, and therefore less strain on the eyelid throughout your wear time. This can help prevent potential eyelid irritation. The half lash also avoids the dreaded lash band inner-corner that frequently peels up from its glue and pokes at the inner eye over time.

3. Style

Just like everyone’s eyes are unique, so is your personal style. The half lash allows you to adjust your lash to fit your personal taste whether you are going for a more natural beauty or a dramatic glamour.

Placing a wispy half lash on your outer corner can give the eye a subtle lift and add a flirtatious flutter to the lash, leaving everyone in awe and wanting more. Meanwhile, placing a darker, more voluminous half lash on the outer corner can create a striking direct line, creating a more sultry, powerful gaze. 

4. Eye Shape

As we’ve already said, eye shapes vary from person to person and can dramatically change what makeup trends and styles work best for each user. However, half lashes are universally loved because almost anyone can use them to great effect on their unique eye shape:

• Those with almond-shaped eyes tend to favor the eye-opening effects of half lashes since full falsies can sometimes make almond eyes look smaller. 

• Those with round eyes can use thick half lashes to create a more sultry look, countering their usual doll-like eyes. 

• Users with monolids or deep-set/hooded eyes can employ voluminous wispy half lashes to lift the outer corner dramatically and make the eyes appear larger. 

5. Cat Eye Trend

One of the most basic reasons half lashes are so popular is that no matter how they are adjusted to each eye shape, they effectively create the popular cat-eye look that is highly sought after. Cat-eyes are extremely versatile and flattering on most eye shapes.

Natural eyelashes tend to hit their longest length under the arch of the brow. Half lashes can shift the longest part of the lash to the outer corner, contrasting the natural shape. We are naturally attracted to things that we find unique and unexpected, which is why we find the cat-eye effect so appealing.

How Do You Cut Half Lashes?

If all of this has made you want to try the infamous half lash for yourself, we don’t blame you! Here are a couple of tips for creating a half lash at home:

• Choose a pair of lashes that best suit your style: sparser lashes will be more natural, and thicker lashes will be more dramatic.

• Use a sanitized pair of scissors (ideally lash scissors) to ensure no unwanted bacteria are transferred to your lashes and then your eyelids –- safety first!

• Measure the lash against your eye to decide where to cut it. Be generous with how much lash you leave intact. You can always cut off more, but you can’t add lash back if you are over-ambitious with the scissors.

• If you are trimming a lash with lashes that transition from shortest to longest, cut off the shorter side (this is the inner corner half that you don’t need).

• Once you are happy with your trim, apply the lash to your eye as you would with a normal full-length lash, focusing on the outer corner. 

What Are Other Fun Lash Styles?

If you aren’t quite ready to snip away at your precious lashes, we totally get it. Luckily, there are plenty of full lashes on the market that can offer you the same benefits. Here are some of our favorite lashes to give you the half lash effect without the sink-side surgery:

1. Cloud 9

On the more natural end of the lash spectrum, the Cloud 9 lashes are a delicate way to incorporate the half lash lift into your life for wispy, everyday wear. These are perfect for beginner lash users or anyone who wants the your-lashes-but-better effect.

2. Moonlight

With their dramatically varied lash length, the Moonlight lashes are perfect for achieving the striking half lash pop that will beautifully brighten up the eyes without overpowering your look. 

When Two Halves Make a Whole

With two half lashes, you have one whole incredible look. With the knowledge you have now, we have no doubt you will find the exact snip and stick combination of half lashes that will suit your beautiful face perfectly. 

If you are excited to start cutting, consider picking up a pair of Doe Scissors, perfect for detailed trimming and customizing your lash looks, or check out our collection of best sellersif you are looking for some lashes to customize.

Sources:

Eyelash Extensions: What Are The Pros and Cons | Healthline

Eye Shapes | Vision Center

Dirty Makeup Sponges Harbor Dangerous Bacteria | Medical News Today