Natural False Lashes: Green Beauty for Drag Queens & Makeup Fiends

By now, you’re probably aware that the verging-on-ridiculous lush lashes in mascara ads didn’t get that way from a slick of plumping product on a specially-designed wand. The models in those misleading images – and virtually every other fashion and beauty ad we’ve ever seen – are wearing falsies. Faux lashes are definitely a great way to quickly and easily enhance lashes for a more dramatic, eye-opening look. Unfortunately, though, most of them are made from unsustainable or unethical materials, and lash adhesive is almost always loaded with formaldehyde.

But alternatives exist! If you want to experiment with false eyelashes for a special event, wedding, photo shoot or just for fun, here are some safe and eco-friendly options. But if you want natural and beautiful lashes of your own, products like www.sugarbearvitamincare.com/products/sugarbear-lashcare might be needed to consume.

Non-toxic eyelash adhesive

Not only is eyelash glue generally full of nasty, harmful substances, it also smells pretty bad. Why put that gunk right next to one of the most sensitive parts of your body? The best option for non-toxic eyelash adhesive is Winks Adhesive by Georgie Beauty, which is the first dermatologist-tested, PETA- and vegan-certified eyelash glue. It’s also infused with USDA-certified organic blue chamomile to soothe the delicate skin of your eyelids, and is free of formaldehyde, paragons and synthetic fragrances. It’s made in the USA, and one tube contains up to 50 applications.

Eco-friendly falsies

Ever wonder where the hair that’s used to make false eyelashes comes from? Good luck finding out. Many manufacturers don’t disclose their sources. One disturbing trend that’s grabbing hold among celebrities like Kim Kardashian is genuine mink fur lashes, gathered from minks raised in fur farms. Of course, at $500 a pop, this option isn’t accessible to most of us – and that’s probably a good thing.

Instead of just grabbing any old pair of lashes off the drugstore rack, check out the options at Georgie Beauty, which come in reusable, recyclable compacts, or Helen Dowsley, which are handmade and ethically sourced. Budget-friendly drugstore lashes aren’t totally out, though – see if your local store carries Eco Tools cruelty-free false eyelashes, which also come with non-toxic glue.

Paper lashes

Want to go even more dramatic? Try paper lashes. Not for the shy, Paperself Lashes are so attention-grabbing you’ll have people leaning in close to get a better look. Peonies, sea creatures, horses, spiders and lace are among the incredibly intricate designs offered. Find them at Sephora or the Paperself online store.