How to Get a False Lash Look With Just Mascara

When it comes to achieving dramatic, full lashes, many turn to falsies—but what if you could get that bold, eye-opening effect with just mascara? Laura Mercier's Caviar Extravagant Mascara, a high-impact formula that delivers 2X volume & length, 3X curl & lift, and 24-hour buildable wear without the hassle of glue or extensions. With the right application techniques, you can create a faux lash effect effortlessly. Here’s how:

Start with Clean Lashes

Make sure your lashes are clean and free of any remaining oil or makeup before applying mascara. Using an eyelash curler to curl your lashes maximizes the effect of the mascara's clover-shaped brush and increases the lift.

Pro Tip: To help set the curl, briefly warm up your eyelash curler with a blow dryer—do not let it get too hot.

Apply the First Coat for Definition

Beginning at the base of your lashes, move the Caviar Extravagant Mascara wand side to side as you work your way upward. While evenly coating each lash, this method aids in defining and separating them. For immediate lift and separation, the specialized brush distributes product evenly across lashes, gripping them from root to tip.

Build Volume with Layering

Layering is essential for creating a false lash effect. To achieve a wide-eyed effect, apply a second coat, paying particular attention to the middle and outer corners. To add volume, use the brush's longer bristles; to lift and lengthen, use its shorter bristles. To avoid clumping while maintaining smooth, buildable volume, let each coat dry for approximately 30 seconds before applying the next.

Use the ‘Roll Under’ Technique for Extra Lift

Hold the brush at the base of the lashes and gently roll it downward while pulling up. This deposits more product at the root, adding density and mimicking the fullness of false lashes. This technique builds volume at the base of the lashes while maintaining a feathery, lifted effect at the tips.

Coat the Lower Lashes for Balance

Lightly coat your lower lashes with mascara using the wand's tip. Without overdoing the lashes, this helps define the eyes. To prevent smudging, take any extra product off the wand before applying. Hold the brush vertically and gently tap the bristles against the lashes for an ultra-natural finish on lower lashes.

Perfect the Look & Clean Up Smudges

If needed, use a clean spoolie to separate any clumped lashes. A cotton swab dipped in makeup remover can easily clean up any minor smudges.