Whether they are hidden under mascara or on display on a red carpet, fake eyelashes have become a symbol of beauty. They can be purchased in gas stations, professional beauty shops, and on social media. This popular makeup accessory has been around for decades but has reached mainstream status recently.

The first recorded use of false eyelashes was in the Roman Empire. Romans sought out long lashes through mineral products. They also used curling tools to create a doll-like appearance. The use of rudimentary mascaras has also been documented in Ancient Egypt. But it wasn’t until the 1930s that false eyelashes gained popularity. The ads in Vogue showed women with long, platinum lashes. The eyelashes were supposed to look natural.

In the ’50s, plastic materials improved the fake eyelash. The synthetic fibers made the falsie more common. They were also easier to mass produce. The 1960s were a more adventurous time in beauty trends. Beauty subcultures emerged in the ’70s and ’80s. Beauty trends tended to be more natural, with muted colors and dark lipsticks. Beauty icons like Twiggy were extreme in their looks.

The 1970s saw an increase in the use of fake eyelashes, but the trend didn’t take off as widely as it did in the ’80s. The new wave of false eyelashes is ultra-realistic. It is also gender-fluid, making it easier to wear for women who may not have eyelashes.

In the 1990s, false eyelashes resurfaced but were less popular. This trend was fueled by the emergence of celebrities like Cindy Crawford. In addition, there was a surge of interest in semi-permanent lash extensions. The lash extension method requires a person to lie still for a few hours while individual hairs are glued to the lash line. Unfortunately, the extensions can be damaged by salt or oils in cosmetics.

Today, fake eyelashes are worn by celebrities and drag queens. They are also available on social media sites and in pharmacies. Some false lashes are made of real hairs from animals. Others are made of durable thin plastic. It’s best to check with your eye doctor before wearing false eyelashes. Then, if they cause any problems, they can be removed carefully.

False eyelashes are a staple in the makeup bag of nearly every celebrity on the red carpet. It’s also an easy way to achieve the look of a black eye without spending hours in the mirror. They also protect the eyes from dust and allergens.

They are an inexpensive way to add some glam to your look. Unlike lash extensions, which cost $400 initially, you can purchase a set of false eyelashes for just a few dollars. The only downside is that they take time to apply and need frequent touch-ups. These are best for people who want to use them for occasional wear.

While there are many different types of false eyelashes, there are three main types. They include faux siblings, faux eyelashes, and strip-style false eyelashes. Each is made from different materials.