As a beauty writer, I'd say I'm pretty well-versed on most things natural hair, creating a skincare routine that works and finding the right makeup for my skin type, but I have to be honest, lashes are not my strong suit.
The reason for my lack of know-how in the realm of these enviable lashes is because of my not-so-great experience wearing lashes. I have had severe allergic reactions to the glue, and for some reason, they tend to make my eyes feel heavy. While I haven't had the best experience with lashes, I enjoy seeing beautiful lashes that add drama and effect and others that give your eyes just enough pop for someone to ask, "Are those real?"
After some research and reading through customer reviews, I found eleven lashes brands that range in style, price, and technology — and they are all cruelty-free. No real mink lashes over here. Whether you're an amateur like me or a pro in the lash game, these brands are easy to find locally and online and will make your eyes the focal point of your next makeup look.
e.l.f Maximum Drama Luxe Lash Kit
Elf Cosmetics
Maximum Drama Luxe Lash Kit
This $4 lash kit is a favorite among reviewers, and the best part is if you're new to lashes or even if you're a vet — you can use give these a try without overthinking about the economic investment.
BEPHOLAN 3 Pairs 5D Multi-layered Faux Mink Lashes
Making a purchase without leaving the comfort of your own home is always a benefit. These faux mink lashes can be shipped with Amazon Prime, and the handmade falsies are "easy to apply" and "lightweight."
Ardell Eyelash Wispies Multipack Black
Amazon
Ardell's line of lashes are a fan favorite because of their pricing and natural look. The multipack comes with five pairs of temporary, reusable lashes, so you'll never be without a little natural glam.
Lilly Lashes Mykonos So Extra 3D Mink False Lashes
Lilly Lashes Mykonos So Extra 3D Mink False Lashes
If you're looking to bring the drama to your next beauty lewk, Lilly's 3D will add volume and depth to your lash line.
MAC Cosmetics 4 Lash False Lashes
MAC
MAC 4 Lash False Lashes
Looking for an everyday lash option? MAC's number 4 lashes will look so natural. "They're virtually undetectable!,'' one reviewer wrote.
Benefit Cosmetics Real False Lashes Debutante Lash
Macys
Benefit Cosmetics Real False Lashes Debutante Lash
I have heard from many beauty gurus that individual lashes tend to feel and look the most natural. Reviewers note that Benefit Cosmetics solo lashes blend well with your natural lashes. One thing to note about individuals is that they can damage your lashes if they aren't taken off correctly. So, be sure to use an oil-based remover to take them off.
Lash Star Visionary Lashes
Lash Star Visionary Lashes | NordstromThese lashes will give you doll-like glam with their fluffy, 3D finish. The other nice thing about these synthetic mink lashes is that they come in a black box that you can restore them in, and you can use them 20-30 times with proper care.
True Glue. Barbie Girl Lashes
true-glue.com
Barbie Girl Luxury Lashes 100% NaturalI was on the hunt for a natural lash glue (which True Glue. is known for) when I came across their Barbie Girl style of lashes. If you're looking for length without volume, these are your pair.
ARVESA 8x False Magnetic Eyelashes
Amazon
If you're looking for a lash option sans the glue at a budget-friendly price point, these falsies are highly-rated on Amazon with many reviewers noting that they take "less than a minute to apply" and that they're so comfortable "you'll forget you have them on."
KISS 'Little Black Dress' Couture Faux Lash
KISS
KISS Lash Couture Singles Little Black Dress
KISS has been in the lash game for as long as I can remember and they have an array for beloved lashes to choose from, but their 'Little Black' dress pair keeps ladies with round or hooded eye shapes in mind and can be worn day or night.
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The $10 Product That's Missing From Your Everyday Makeup Routine
This Woman Went From Welfare To Creating A Lash Empire
Featured image by Cosmopolitan
When it comes to creating a healthy scalp routine, it helps to know exactly what you’re up against so you know how to specifically treat it. Two of the most common concerns are dandruff and dry scalp. It can be tough to decipher which is which, but here’s a quick breakdown: dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture in the skin, while dandruff is caused by an excess of oil and yeast buildup on the scalp. Knowing that both of these are big concerns, SheaMoisture released two separate product lines to address both issues: the Scalp Moisture collection and the Anti-Dandruff collection.
Needless to say, if you tend to experience dandruff then I’d recommend you try the Anti-Dandruff collection. However, my biggest concern has always been dry scalp. A lack of moisture on the scalp can be caused by several factors like weather, age, and hair products to name a few. I’ve noticed that when I use certain gels or skip out on a deep scalp cleanse, my roots feel itchy and dry nonstop, which is uncomfortable.
The only way to relieve the discomfort is to properly wash and moisturize my roots, so I tried the Scalp Moisture collection and this is what I thought.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
First, What’s In The Collection?
The Scalp Moisture collection is a four-product line that includes a pre-wash masque, a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and a moisturizing scalp cream. Each product uses moisturizing and strengthening ingredients like aloe butter and vitamin B3 as active ingredients to provide eight times the moisture. Together, aloe butter and vitamin B3 work to restore dry and brittle hair, as well as add relief to the scalp.
Now, let’s break down each product…
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Pre-Wash Masque
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Pre-Wash Masque may actually be the all-star of the collection. Using this deep conditioning masque is one of the best ways to target your dry scalp, restore hydration, and nourish your strands before shampooing.
I started by completely saturating my hair and scalp with water, then making small sections to apply the masque directly to the root. For my girls who have experience with relaxers and perms, it helps to apply the masque to your roots just like you would do with a relaxer. This way you can make sure you’ve covered as much of your scalp as possible while minimizing any breakage.
Pro tip: you can also use a color application brush to make this step easier.
After I completely covered my scalp, I massaged the product into my roots, used any excess on my strands, then left the masque in for 30 minutes. I was shocked by how moisturizing and clarifying my scalp and hair felt. One of the things that I love about the masque is the slip and how much softer it made my hair. While this is marketed as a scalp care product, it can completely transform your hair from dry and parched to completely hydrated.
In my opinion, the downside of this masque is that the quantity is too small for my liking. Truth be told, naturals go through deep conditioners faster than any other product (especially when it’s this good.) So SheaMoisture, if you’re reading this, we’d love a bigger jar.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Shampoo
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Shampoo is a gentle cleanser packed with the same moisture as the masque. The pearl-colored shampoo is lightweight with a serum-like consistency and a light and clean scent. The smell is pleasant, subtle, and not overbearing. When I applied the shampoo, I noticed immediately that it foams and lathers up very quickly, so less is more.
After applying the shampoo, I parted my hair and started at the roots to target as much of my scalp as possible. I recommend really taking the time to work the product and massage your scalp as much as possible.
Pro tip: using a scalp massager makes it easier and it feels amazing.
Once you start to massage your hair you’ll feel the product start to work. There’s a tingling sensation that might catch you off guard if you’re not used to it, but it’s not nearly as strong as other scalp products I’ve tried. I know some may not appreciate the sensation, but I loved it! My scalp felt clean, light, and breathable.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Conditioner
Like the shampoo, the SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Conditioner shares that pearly color and serum-like feel. It applies very easily while softening and moisturizing your hair. When I applied it to my hand, it gave my hands a lotion-like feel, which speaks volumes about its hydration capabilities. I also loved that the conditioner comes with a pump, instead of having to squeeze the product out – to me, it makes application easier.
I typically apply my conditioner to the ends first but because this is a scalp care product I started at the root and worked my way down to my ends. I did leave the conditioner in for ten minutes, although the bottle recommends leaving it in for three. The conditioner also provides that same breathable feel to your scalp. I honestly loved the relief.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Cream
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Cream is more of a daily relief product for your roots rather than your overall hair. It’s great for providing moisture and immediate relief to a dry and itchy scalp. Just like most of the collection, it gives a light and breathable feel – without the tingle. The applicator bottle targets specific parts of your scalp and makes applying easier.
Pro tip: I typically just squeeze the bottle to wherever I need the relief and use the tip to massage it into my scalp so it doesn’t mess up the hairstyle.
Overall, SheaMoisture’s scalp care line lives up to its claims – it moisturizes, strengthens, and provides immediate scalp relief. I definitely recommend trying the Scalp Moisture collection for an affordable way to treat itchy and dry scalp.
Featured image by Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
