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.
Want more stories like this? Sign up for our newsletter here and check out the related reads below:
The $10 Product That's Missing From Your Everyday Makeup Routine
This Woman Went From Welfare To Creating A Lash Empire
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I've always had a love-hate relationship with wigs. Sometimes, I struggle to get them to lay flat and don't get me started with the bonding glue process. So when it comes to wearing wigs, I like to keep it nice and breezy around this b--- (word to Katt Williams), especially in the summertime.
That's why I jumped at the chance to try these three versatile wigs from Luvme Hair. Each one offers a unique look and is surprisingly low maintenance, which aligns perfectly with my philosophy that wearing wigs should make life easier. Let’s dive into the three styles below.
Headband Wig
Courtesy
This was the first wig I tried on, and I instantly fell in love with it. So much so that it took me weeks to even consider trying the other two. I’m partial to colored hair, especially blonds, browns, and reds, so I was skeptical about the jet black hair. However, I think the color, combined with the curl pattern, worked surprisingly well for me.
One of the things I really liked about this wig was that I didn’t have to braid my hair down first. I could simply throw it over a low ponytail, which is the epitome of a low-maintenance style. The headband has combs inside and velcro on the ends, ensuring a secure fit.
Half Wig
Courtesy
I had never worn a half wig before, so I faced some challenges. I cornrowed the bottom half of my hair where the wig would sit, but I believe this made it more difficult to use the combs. It might just be me though. I straightened the top part of my hair to blend it with the wig, which looked cute for about five minutes.
Firstly, I have a brown/blonde color mix on the ends of my hair, and the half wig is black. So, I had to hide some of the color (I didn’t have time to dye the wig). Secondly, straightening my hair myself is always a hassle because it never lasts long. Add to that the summer humidity, and you get a hot mess. Despite all this, I managed to get some cute pictures before things got out of control, and that’s all that matters, right?
Would I consider this a low-maintenance hair style? Yes and no. I think it’s unrealistic for me during the summer, especially since I enjoy summer activities. However, when the weather cools down, I’ll definitely rock it, dyed, of course.
Bob
Courtesy
Now, this is the wig I was nervous about. I never had a bob and I didn't think I would like it. But once I put bobiana on, my mind instantly changed. I finally understood why the gworls rave about the bob so much. It was giving boss. It was giving grown woman. It was giving the bob means business. Iykyk. It was the ultimate statement.
I will say when I first put it on, one side of my wig just would not lay flat. It took some trial and error, but I finally managed to get it to look good. With the bob, I highly recommend braiding your hair down first as small as you can so it can lay as flat as possible. I really liked the ash blonde color, which is perfect for summer. The length also makes it a great low-maintenance style for the season, so you don't have to worry about the hair making your neck sweaty.
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