How to Make Your Eyes Look More Open With Half Lashes

If you love what false lashes do for your eyes but find a full strip fiddly, a half lash could be exactly what you need.

As a professional makeup artist, I do not believe that a bigger lash automatically makes your eyes look bigger. It is the shape and placement of the lash that make the difference.

A soft half lash placed on the outer corner adds definition exactly where you need it. It can make the eyes appear more open and give your makeup a polished finish, without covering your entire lash line.

That is exactly why I created the Ava Half Lash.

Why can full strip lashes feel difficult?

A full strip lash runs across the entire lash line. This means you need to position the centre and both corners correctly, which can feel difficult when you are new to applying lashes.

The inner corner is often the part people struggle with most. If the band is not sitting close enough to your natural lashes, it can feel uncomfortable or begin to come away.

A half lash removes that problem. It sits only on the outer section of the eye, so there is less lash band to position and no inner corner to fight with.

What does a half lash do for your eyes?

Half lashes add length and definition to the outer section of the lash line. This draws the eye outwards and helps to create a softer, more open-looking shape.

Because the inner section of your natural lashes remains visible, your eye makeup does not disappear behind the false lash. The result feels fresh, flattering and finished, rather than as though the lash is wearing you.

Half lashes are especially useful when you want:

• A quick lash you can apply in minutes

• More definition around the outer corners

• A soft, natural-looking finish

• Your eye makeup to remain visible

• An easier alternative to a full strip lash

Why I recommend Ava for beginners

Ava is a soft, fluffy half lash designed to sit on the outer corners of the eyes. The shorter band makes her quick to position, while the shape adds enough definition to make a visible difference without taking over your makeup.

She is a lovely choice if you have never worn false lashes before, if full strips never seem to sit comfortably or if you simply want an easy lash for everyday makeup.

I also keep Ava in my professional makeup kit for clients. She is one of those lashes I can use when I want to finish the eye, enhance its shape and create a polished result quickly.

How to apply a half lash

Half lashes are easy to apply once you know where to place them.

1. Finish your eye makeup

Complete your eyeshadow and eyeliner first. Curl your natural lashes and apply mascara if that is part of your usual routine.

2. Remove the lash carefully

Gently lift Ava from the tray by holding the lash band rather than pulling the lash fibres. This helps the lash keep its shape.

3. Check the position

Before adding adhesive, place the lash against the outer section of your lash line. Check where it looks most flattering and make sure it feels comfortable.

4. Apply a thin layer of adhesive

Add a fine layer of Glam Grip lash adhesive along the band and allow it to become tacky. Too much adhesive can make any lash more difficult to control.

5. Place it close to your natural lashes

Using your fingers or curved lash applicator tweezers, position the half lash as close as possible to your natural lash line. Secure the centre first, then gently press down both ends.

6. Blend the lashes together

Once the adhesive has set, gently press the false lash and your natural lashes together. This helps create a seamless finish.

My professional tip for a more flattering finish

Do not place the lash too far away from your natural lash line. A small gap makes the band more noticeable and can make the lash feel less secure.

Look slightly down into a mirror as you apply it. This gives you a clearer view of the lash line and makes it easier to position the band closely.

The aim is not to make the false lash look separate from your own lashes. It should look as though the extra softness and definition naturally belong there.

Half lashes or full lashes: which should you choose?

Neither is better for everyone. It depends on your eye shape, your makeup and the finish you want.

Choose a half lash when you want something quick, soft and easy to apply. Choose a full strip when you want definition across the entire lash line or a more noticeable evening look.

If you are still unsure which style will flatter you, read my guide to choosing false lashes for your eye shape.

The easy way to finish your makeup

False lashes should make you feel polished and confident. They should not feel like the most stressful part of getting ready.

If you want your eyes to look more open but find full strips fiddly, Ava gives you the effect of a false lash in a much easier half-lash shape.

Shop the Ava Half Lash and discover how much difference one small lash can make.

Sally x

Professional Makeup Artist and Founder of Sally Rowe Beauty