Mascara is makeup, and false eyelashes and eyelash extensions are cosmetic products. Natural eyelashes are part of your body, so they are not makeup.
There are two broad categories to consider: lashes that grow naturally and products or treatments applied to them. In the United States, the FDA lists false eyelashes, eyelash extensions, their adhesives and mascara as cosmetic products.
What Counts as Lash Makeup?
| Lash type | Is it makeup? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Natural eyelashes | No | They are part of your body. |
| Mascara | Yes | Mascara darkens, lengthens or adds volume to the lashes. |
| Strip lashes | Yes | They are attached with cosmetic adhesive. |
| Individual or cluster lashes | Yes | They temporarily change the appearance of your natural lashes. |
| Eyelash extensions | Usually | They are cosmetic enhancements attached to natural lashes. |
| Lash tint | Cosmetic treatment | A tint changes the color of the lashes but is not usually called traditional makeup. |
| Lash lift | Beauty treatment | A lift changes the curl of natural lashes without adding a lash product. |
Do Fake Lashes Count as Wearing Makeup?
Usually, yes. If someone asks whether you are wearing makeup, mascara, strip lashes and temporary individual lashes would normally count.
Eyelash extensions are sometimes described as a cosmetic treatment rather than makeup. They still alter your appearance, though, so a dress code may include them.
For school, work or an event, check the wording of the policy. One rule may ban makeup products but allow natural-looking extensions. Another may cover all lash enhancements.
Are Eyelash Extensions and False Lashes Safe?
False lashes, extensions and lash adhesives are used close to the eyes. They can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. The FDA recommends checking adhesive ingredients and stopping use if irritation develops. Do not use eye cosmetics if you have an eye infection or inflammation around the eye.
Avoid tinting or dyeing your eyelashes at home. The FDA warns that some eyelash and eyebrow dyes can cause serious eye injuries. Some coloring products also have restrictions on professional use.
Bottom Line
For everyday conversation, mascara and fake lashes count as makeup. Extensions are often called a cosmetic treatment, while lash lifts and tints are usually treated as beauty treatments. For a dress code, follow the policy's definition of makeup and check whether it also covers cosmetic treatments.