Two magnetic systems

Magnetic systems compared General differences.
SystemHow it holdsGood forWatch out for
Liner and lashesLashes grip a magnetic linerFirst-timersLiner dries out; read the ingredients
Sandwich pairsTwo lashes clamp your ownNo linerNeeds enough natural lashes

The difference is explained in liner vs sandwich, and the mechanism in how magnetic lashes work.

Listing checklist

What to check before you buy
CheckWhy
What is in the boxLiner, tweezers and case may be extra
Liner ingredientsIron oxide is common; read the label
Length and bandTrim if it is longer than your eye
Maker's reuse figureA maker's claim, not a guarantee
Removal directionsHow to take off the liner

Safety

Patch-test any magnetic liner on your inner arm 24 to 48 hours before use. If you have a medical implant, or before an MRI, ask your doctor about magnetic products first. If your eyes sting, redden or swell and it does not settle, remove the lashes and stop. This site is not medical advice. Steps for use are in how to apply magnetic lashes.

Caring for magnetic lashes

Wipe the magnets clean and dry after each wear and store them flat. See how to clean magnetic lashes.

Why a liner system is the easier first try

With a liner system, you apply a line of magnetic liner and set the lash on it. There is nothing to pinch, and you can lift and reposition. Sandwich pairs ask you to line up two pieces around your own lashes, which is harder if you have few lashes or want to place the lash precisely. If you wear glasses or have sensitive timing in the morning, a liner system is quicker once you have practised.

Whatever you choose, practise once before the day you need it. A first attempt rarely looks perfect, and a practice run tells you whether the length and band suit your eye.

Fit, length and trimming

A band longer than your eye lifts at the corner, and that is as true for magnetic lashes as for strips. Compare the band to your eye before you add liner, and trim the outer end with small scissors if it passes your corner. See how to trim false eyelashes. Keep the length close to your own lashes for a natural look and go longer only if you want drama.

InnerCentreOuter
Lash lines are usually planned in three zones: inner, centre and outer. Original illustration.
Two magnetic systems compared How the two common styles differ in general.
SystemHow it holdsGood to know
Magnetic liner + lashesLashes with small magnets grip a liner that contains magnetic particlesLiner formulas vary; read the ingredient list
Sandwich (paired) lashesTwo lash pieces with magnets clamp your natural lashes between themNeeds enough natural lashes to hold on to
Diagram of a magnetic liner pen beside a magnetic lash stripMagnetic linerLash with small magnets
A magnetic liner and a lash with small magnets in the band. Original illustration.

How a magnetic liner set goes on

  1. Shake the liner and check the lash is clean and the magnets are free of dust.
  2. Draw a thin line along the upper lash line only, as close to your lashes as you can.
  3. Wait for the time the maker states before you place the lash.
  4. Place the lash by bringing it in from the outer edge and letting the magnets meet the line, then press gently along the band.
  5. Check in the mirror with your eyes open and blend any gap with a little more liner.

The full walkthrough, with a mistakes table, is in how to apply magnetic lashes.

Magnetic lashes vs strip and cluster

Magnetic, strip and cluster compared General differences, not product claims.
MagneticStripCluster
AdhesiveMagnetic liner or paired lashes, no lash glueStrip lash glueBond and seal
SpeedFast once practisedFastSlower
ControlMediumLowerHigh
RemovalLift off, then remove the linerRemover, then liftRemover for the bond
Main watch-outLiner smudging; medical implants and MRIBand fitPatience

If you are still deciding between the three, read best false eyelashes.

Magnetic lash mistakes and fixes

Mistakes and fixes
MistakeLikely resultFix
Liner too thickSmudges and a heavy lineDraw a thin line and let it set
Placing the lash too earlyLiner transfers to the lidWait for the time on the pack
Lash too far from the lash lineA visible gapPress the band close to the base
Magnets with product on themWeak holdWipe the band clean between wears
Pulling the lash offStress on your own lashesLift from the outer corner and remove the liner with a remover

Care is simple: wipe the band, let it dry and store it flat in its case. Our cleaning guide covers the magnets.

Safety notes for magnetic products

Patch-test any liner on your inner arm 24 to 48 hours before it goes near your eyes, keep it out of your eye, and stop and remove it if stinging, redness or swelling does not settle. Magnetic liner usually contains iron oxide; check the ingredient list on the pack. People with medical implants, or who have an MRI scheduled, should ask their doctor before using magnetic lashes. For pain or a change in vision, see an eye doctor. This site is editorial and not medical advice.

For the full picture on how the two magnetic systems differ, see magnetic liner vs sandwich lashes and how magnetic lashes work.

What to check on a magnetic listing

Listing checklist
CheckWhy it matters
Is the liner included?Many sets sell lashes and liner separately
Number of magnetsSpreads the hold along the band
Length and band widthDecides how the lash fits your eye
Trimmable?A trimmable band suits more eye shapes
Case included?Keeps lashes flat and clean
The maker's wear claimA claim, not a promise

We chose the named sets above by their listed details, not by testing, and only one maker's magnetic range could be read in full. If you find another set that fits better, check it against this list first.

How we picked the named sets

We read the product pages on the maker's own site and chose sets that cover three useful looks: a short natural lash, a medium wispy lash, and a long cat-eye. For each we listed only what the page states: length, band width, the number of magnets, whether it can be trimmed, and whether a case comes with it. We did not test them, and we cannot confirm wear claims. Prices change, so we do not list them; compare the listing on the day you buy, and check the maker's page for the current range.

  • Choose the short natural lash if you wear glasses or want an everyday look.
  • Choose the medium wispy lash for the widest range of eye shapes.
  • Choose the long cat-eye lash for evenings and photos.