11 best eyelash clusters to elevate your look
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The best eyelash clusters may make you forget that traditional strip false eyelashes ever existed. This could sound like hyperbole, but trust me: I rarely reach for full strip styles now, always favouring a cluster design. Why? I find them far easier to achieve a natural result with. Plus, they are way more versatile too, since you're able to use as few (or many) as you like to create your desired effect and elevate your eye makeup look.
That said, if I'm being honest, cluster lashes may not be as intuitive as simply sticking on one long strip. Be it traditional ones from the likes of Eylure and Sweed, or the DIY cluster lash extension-style iterations that last longer (thus removing the need for mascara), it did take me a hot minute to learn how to use them. But trust me when I tell you that once you nail the process, as I did, you'll likely never look back.
Luckily for you, I spoke with top makeup artists to discover the easiest, fuss-free way to apply eyelash clusters. Gone will be the days when lash glue is stuck everywhere, lashes are all bent and frustration levels are sky-high. Along with these top tips, I've selected the top lash cluster buys I've discovered after my many years of trial and tribulation as a lash-loving beauty editor. Thank me later.
SKIP TO: Why choose eyelash clusters over strip false lashes? | Top application tips for eyelash clusters | How we tested eyelash clusters | Our full reviews.
Meet the experts:
- Madeleine Spencer, Makeup Artist.
- Beau Nelson, Makeup Artist and Lashify Ambassador.
Why choose eyelash clusters over strip false lashes?
Those of us who rarely use false eyelashes may have only reached for regular ‘strip’ lashes before – but eyelash clusters are worth giving a go for so many reasons.
“I would generally choose clusters if trying to achieve a really natural finish, or one that didn’t involve any eyeliner whatsoever – I would only use strip lashes (usually trimming them) if I have applied eyeliner to blend in with them,” says Spencer. “I find strip lashes are much more obviously there, which may work for the look you’re trying to achieve, of course. But if the goal is just to look like there are lots of lashes vs lots of fake lashes, clusters are a better bet.”
Nelson adds: “I use them all the time. They allow me to customise the length, shape and style to create any style I want from undetectable natural to extreme volume or cat eye liquid liner without the liner.”
Top application tips for eyelash clusters:
“I actually find clusters are easier to teach people to apply than strip lashes because effectively you’re just positioning them right on top of your natural lashes (or underneath now with some brands),” says Spencer.
Application-wise for traditional clusters, she advises following these simple steps:
- Apply the glue to the lashes (go for as little as possible - just a coating, not a blob)
- Let it dry a bit so it’s tacky and not wet
- Either with fingers or with an eyelash applicator tool (these are handy if you wear false eyelashes a lot), just pop them on top of your lashes, and position while the glue still allows you to.
Spencer further advises: “I will often tell people to check the position while their eyes are open and then ask them to open and shut a few times just to check it looks seamless. If you’re applying them to yourself and want to check the positioning is right, you could film yourself opening and shutting your eyes with your phone while you become accustomed to where works for your face.”
If you're opting for DIY eyelash extensions in clusters (such as Lashify's or Kiss' that usually apply under the lash line and last longer than a day so are reusable), there will likely be different application steps. It's important to follow each brand's instructions or watch an online tutorial, which often makes the process far easier. Nelson says the following tips will help to keep them on for longer: “Don't over-bond [with the lash adhesive product included], make sure of proper placement, re-fuse in the morning and don't use oil-based makeup remover.”
How we tested eyelash clusters
Throughout the years, the GLAMOUR team has collectively tried dozens of eyelash clusters, from brands including Eylure, Lashify, Kiss and Swede. We've tested these for ease of application, longevity and style, amongst other things. The following are our top picks to add to your basket and checkout with. Find out more about how we test.
Meet our favourite eyelash clusters for just about any makeup look…
Why we love it: An OG for a reason, Eylure always has exactly what you're looking for lash-wise, be it strip or cluster lashes. They're also brilliant for beginners, and in particular this offering has great variety. The clusters come in a number of options with mixed length: 8mm, 10mm and 12mm, meaning you can create a whole host of looks (there are up to 8 applications per pack).
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these Boots discount codes.
Why we love it: Hate having to faff around with eyelash glue? It does tend to be the worst part about falsies. Luckily, this kit from Kiss comes pre-bonded, meaning it's a simple press-and-go application. The clusters are all natural-looking too, and the set comes with one of Kiss' applicator wands, which makes things so much easier.
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these LookFantastic discount codes.
Why we love it: Lashify does some of the very best ‘bonding’ extension lash clusters, which are applied underneath the lash line and can stay on for up to several days rather than just being single-use. This kit, designed with iconic makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench, contains the following: 2 x Gossamer lash sets, 1 x dual-sided Whisper Light Lash Bond with Micro-Flex, 1 x Water Proof Sealer and 1 x classic Fuse Control wand.
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these Selfridges discount codes.
Why we love it: Prefer to keep things ultra-natural? Sweed should be your first port of call. These dainty clusters are perfect for adding just a touch of extra volume to lashes, or can be slightly built up. In the pack, there are four different lengths (6mm, 8mm, 10mm and 12mm), meaning a variety of options.
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Why we love it: Another brilliant option for longer-lasting extensions, this Velour DIY cluster kit will keep your lashes looking fresh for up to 5 days a go. This set in particular is ideal if you love a touch of drama and glam; the volume is unrivalled.
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these Sephora discount codes.
Why we love it: If you're a lash pro – or are just new to this world and don't know what you like yet – this pack is an essential buy. Not only are there a whopping 50 lash clusters included in the box, the lengths vary from 8 mm to 14 mm. You can also either wear these above or below the lash line, and for a day or up to 10 days depending on the glue you choose. So many options!
Why we love it: Want to get that professional finish? These lashes were created by lash techs, meaning they are everything you'll need and more. The box contains 40 pre-cut individual lash clusters of mixed length, meaning you can achieve a number of looks depending on your taste and natural lash length. These are a great curl cluster with subtle lift, meaning a natural look that's still noticeable.
Why we love it: If you're brand new to at-home lash extensions, KISS' are a brilliant place to start. They are easy to get to grips with, and tend to last several days making them ideal for weekends away or nights out where there'll be plenty of dancing! This set comes with a full set of clusters, lash bond and seal formulas and a clever lash applicator.
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Why we love it: Along with Kiss, Lashify is the best at-home extensions brand beauty editors have come to know and love. Only recently available here in the UK, these lashes are top quality, long-lasting and offering majorly natural results. The range of Lashify options is endless, but my faves are these Fluffy Lite ones, which are beautifully wispy and perfect for daytime.
Why we love it: If there's one brand you can trust in for pro makeup artist-level product, it's MAC. Its cluster eyelashes are no different; small enough to look natural yet voluminous to add a touch of drama to any look. These are best applied with a pair of tweezers as they can be a little fiddly due to their size.
Save when shopping for best eyelash clusters using these John Lewis discount codes.
Why we love it: Huda Beauty is known for its pigmented lip paints, unbeatable loose powder and also, its dramatic false lashes. This box offers a trio of options depending on your need for said drama, but the most voluminous of the set will give you your nighttime glam eye look of dreams. If you prefer an understated look to a volume lash, try the individual eyelashes. These look so impressive on, you'll keep returning to them over and over again.
