Magnetic lashes are false eyelashes that attach with small magnets. They use one of two systems: magnetic eyeliner or two lash strips that hold onto each other around your natural lashes. They can give a similar effect to glue-on lashes, but the result depends on the lash design, your eyelid shape, the application and the fit.
Magnetic Lashes at a Glance
| Type | How it works | Main advantage | Main drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic eyeliner lashes | Magnets on the lash band attach to magnetic particles in the eyeliner | Usually easier to position and remove | Requires eyeliner and careful application |
| Sandwich-style magnetic lashes | Upper and lower lash strips clamp around your natural lashes | No eyeliner required | Can feel heavier and may be harder to align |
How Do Magnetic Eyelashes Work?
Magnetic eyelashes work in one of two ways:
- Magnetic eyeliner lashes: You apply a special eyeliner containing magnetic particles. Once the liner dries, magnets in the lash band attach to it.
- Sandwich-style lashes: Two lash strips use magnets to hold onto each other, with your natural eyelashes between them.
Magnetic eyeliner lashes use one strip. Sandwich-style products usually use an upper and lower strip.
Are Magnetic Lashes as Good as Glue-on Lashes?
Magnetic lashes can work well for occasional wear, particularly if you prefer not to use traditional lash glue. They can be easier to remove and reuse, but most people need some practice before the application feels simple.
They are more likely to stay in place when:
- The lash band follows the curve of your eyelid.
- You apply the magnetic eyeliner in a thick, even line.
- The liner dries according to the product instructions.
- Your eyelids are clean and free from excess oil.
- You trim the lash to fit without pressing into either corner.
A lash that is too long or poorly fitted may lift at the corners, move when you blink or feel uncomfortable. That usually points to a fit or application problem rather than a failure of the magnets.
Are Magnetic Lashes Safer Than Regular False Lashes?
Magnetic lashes may reduce your exposure to traditional lash glue, but they are not automatically safer. Magnetic eyeliner can irritate the eyelid or cause an allergic reaction. Any false lash can also rub against the eye or pull on natural lashes if it is too heavy or positioned incorrectly.
A review of cosmetics and ocular health lists irritation, allergic reactions, corneal abrasions and mechanical effects as possible concerns linked to magnetic lashes and metallic eyeliner.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises you to stop using an eye cosmetic if it causes irritation. It also recommends avoiding eye cosmetics during an eye infection or eyelid inflammation and keeping products and applicators clean.
For safer use:
- Check the ingredient list, especially for magnetic eyeliner.
- Do not share magnetic lashes or eyeliner.
- Wash your hands before applying them.
- Apply and remove the lashes gently.
- Do not sleep in them unless the manufacturer says they are suitable for overnight wear.
- Stop using them if you develop itching, burning, swelling or ongoing redness.
Can Magnetic Lashes Damage Natural Eyelashes?
Magnetic lashes can contribute to lash breakage or thinning when they are too heavy, pulled off forcefully or repeatedly tugged into place. Remove them slowly instead of ripping them from the eyelid or natural lashes.
They still create mechanical stress. Sandwich-style lashes can tug on natural lashes, while a lash band in the wrong position can rub against the eyelid or eye surface.
Can You Wear Magnetic Lashes During an MRI?
No. Remove magnetic lashes and magnetic eyeliner before an MRI, and tell the MRI technologist that you used them.
Research has found that magnetic eyelashes can create MRI image artefacts and experience substantial magnetic forces in the MRI environment. Some MRI facilities specifically tell patients not to wear magnetic eyelashes to their appointment.
The Bottom Line
Magnetic lashes work as a reusable alternative to traditional false eyelashes. Magnetic eyeliner lashes are usually easier for beginners because one strip attaches to the liner. Sandwich-style lashes avoid eyeliner, but they require more careful positioning.
They may suit occasional wear if you are willing to practice. Do not use them while your eyes or eyelids are irritated. Stop using them if you experience pain, swelling, vision changes or ongoing redness.