Lash clusters have gotten extremely popular in the last few years with women that love the look of lash extensions, but want (or need) a more affordable option that they can do at home. Applying cluster lashes is not only easy, it’s fun! And we don’t mean that in a cheesy way – once you nail down cluster lash application and see yourself with lashes, there’s no better boost of self confidence.
Our goal today is to help guide you through how to apply cluster lashes, share our tips for applying cluster lashes, and make sure that you feel confident with how to apply cluster lashes on yourself. Let’s dive in!
The Basics of Cluster Lashes
Cluster lashes are small groups of lash fibers bundled together to create a fuller, more dramatic look. Unlike traditional strip lashes, lash clusters offer more customization and a more natural finish. They’re an excellent choice for anyone who wants the look of professional lash extensions without the time or cost commitment. With the right technique (and some practice!) cluster lash application is easy to do at home, allowing you to enhance your beauty on your own terms!
Are Cluster Lashes Easy to Apply?
A common question is, are cluster lashes easy to apply? The answer is yes—with a little practice and the right tools! Applying cluster lashes is a simple option for those that love the look of lash extensions, but want (or need) an alternative. Like all things beauty, cluster lash application becomes easier with practice, and hopefully with our breakdown of how to apply cluster lashes step by step, you’ll feel more confident the next time you go to apply yours!
How Do You Apply Cluster Lashes? Step-by-Step Guide to Cluster Lash Application
First, we are going to break down how to apply cluster lashes. The best way to apply cluster lashes is to sit down, relax, grab your favorite beverage, and carve out enough time. You don’t want your first time applying cluster lashes to be timed because you have to leave the house in ten minutes. If you’re wondering how long do cluster lashes take to apply, know that on average it's about 10 minutes, but! We recommend penciling in at least 30 minutes for your first time.
It’s also a lot easier to do your cluster lash application when you have everything you need. Here at TAD, our DIY lash kits include everything you need for a full set of lashes!
Let’s dive into how to apply cluster lashes step by step!
Step 1: Prepping Your Natural Lashes for Application
Okay before we start answering how do you apply cluster lashes, let’s remember that clean lashes are happy lashes! And how long do DIY lash extensions last depends highly on how you prep the lashes. Before applying cluster lashes, proper preparation is essential to ensure longevity and a seamless blend.
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Clean Your Lashes – Use a lash cleanser like our Pure Lash Cleanser to remove any oil, dirt, or makeup from your natural lashes.
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Dry Thoroughly – Let your lashes dry completely before applying any product.
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Prime for Better Adhesion – Using a prep pad like our TAD Prep Pad ensures optimal bonding between your lashes and the adhesive, removing excess oil from your natural lashes.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Lashes and Adhesive
As we mentioned before, TAD offers revolutionary 3D lashes that are unlike any other lashes available. But part of how do you apply cluster lashes is choosing the right lashes for you!
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Select the Right Length – Choose a lash length that complements your eye shape. Our 3D lashes come in various styles to match your desired look.
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Pick the Right Adhesive – For extended wear, use a strong yet flexible adhesive like our Brilliant Bond to ensure long-lasting wear without irritation. Our adhesive is both latex and cyanoacrylate free!
Step 3: Applying the Cluster Lashes
Now is the time you get to actually apply your lash segments! How to apply DIY lash extensions isn’t difficult, but you want to make sure that you like the way they lay, their position, and which way they are facing.
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Use Tweezers – Hold the lash cluster with tweezers and bring the lash up to your natural lash line.
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Where to Apply Cluster Lashes: Under Natural Lashes – Unlike strip lashes, cluster lashes are best placed underneath the natural lashes, close to the waterline but without touching the skin.
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The Right Angle – Make sure the lash segments are close together, but not overlapping. The best angle is to follow your natural lash line, keeping the segment base parallel to your natural lash line.
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Press and Hold – Hold in place for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to set.
Step 4: Securing the Lashes in Place
Once all your segments have been placed, you will want to clamp them together to ensure the hold is in place. Clamping also helps seal the bond and lock the lashes in.
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Use a Lash Applicator – A tool like our Precision Press helps press natural and cluster lashes together for a seamless bond.
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Seal the Look – Apply a thin coat of Pristine Seal to lock in your look and extend wear time.
More Tips on Applying Cluster Lashes for Beginners
Now that we’ve walked through how to apply cluster lashes on yourself, let’s chat about our team’s biggest tips for applying cluster lashes!
Picking the Right Style for Your Eye Shape
Different lash styles flatter different eye shapes. If you have round eyes, go for wispy styles. Almond eyes suit most lash types, while monolids benefit from flared styles for added dimension.
Also remember, not every eye needs all six lash segments from TAD Beauty. Your eye might require less lash segments.
Set Yourself Up For Success at TAD Beauty
Using high-quality tools and products is key. Our at-home lash extensions are truly a game changer in the industry, offering the most comfortable wear available. Because yes! There are good vs bad DIY lash extensions, and you want the best option, especially if your goal is to wear the lashes for 7 days!
Blending and Styling for a Seamless Finish
Not every map is for everyone, and the coolest part of cluster lash application is you can play with the map to build the look that you want! Truly the best way to apply cluster lashes is to apply them in a way you LOVE! So get creative and try adjusting length placement for a seamless look you love!
Using a Lash Sealer for Extra Hold
A lash sealer like Pristine Seal helps extend the longevity of your cluster lashes, ensuring they are waterproof and all stickiness is removed.
Avoid Applying Too Many Clusters Close Together
We mentioned you should not stack or bricklay your lash segments when you learn how to apply cluster lashes, but you do want them as close as possible to one another. This is to ensure that the TAD Microstructure is able to make contact with your natural lashes for ultimate retention. Where to apply cluster lashes also matters, you want them to be as close to your lash line as possible, without touching the water line.
Don’t Touch Lashes Before Adhesive Sets
Allow the adhesive to fully dry before touching or adjusting your lashes to prevent movement or misalignment. We recommend not getting the lashes wet in the first 24 hours after applying cluster lashes.
Safely Remove Your Lash Clusters
We talked about how do you apply cluster lashes, but it’s important to know how to remove DIY lash extensions safely so you do not damage your natural lashes. Check out our blog post for a step-by-step guide on how to remove your lashes!
How Long Do Cluster Lashes Take to Apply?
Let’s chat about how long do cluster lashes take to apply and how to get faster! The biggest perk of learning how to apply cluster lashes, is you do not have to rely on long salon appointments to achieve salon-quality results. Of course, you have to know how to do a cluster lash application for this to benefit you!
First-Timers May Take 20–30 Minutes
If you’re new to applying cluster lashes, expect your first few attempts to take around 20–30 minutes as you get comfortable with the process. As we mentioned, relax and don’t rush yourself!
You’ll Start Working Faster as You Gain Experience
With practice, you’ll find the best way to apply cluster lashes more efficiently, reducing your application time to as little as 10–15 minutes. And once you get to that point, you’ll be answering your own question: are cluster lashes easy to apply – with a big YES!
Tips on Applying Cluster Lashes Faster
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Organize Your Workspace – Lay out all your tools before starting.
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Use a Magnifying Mirror – A close-up view helps with precise placement.
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Apply One Eye At a Time – Perfect one side before moving to the other.
Parting Thoughts on How to Apply Cluster Lashes for Beginners
We hope that you feel confident with how to apply DIY lash extensions now that you have made it through our guide. Mastering how to apply cluster lashes on yourself is a game-changer for achieving salon-quality results at home. With the right products, a little practice, and our expert tips, you’ll be able to perfect your cluster lash application effortlessly. Ready to elevate your lash game? Explore our at-home lash extensions and start your DIY beauty journey today!