How to Create Spider Lashes, the Makeup Mistake Turned Trendy
Try the controversial spidery lashes look with this step-by-step tutorial.
Axelle/Getty Images
There was a time when an excess of mascara was viewed as exactly that. But spider lashes (aka Twiggy lashes, spidery lashes, and the clumpy mascara trend) are viewed as effortlessly cool and perhaps a bit nostalgic. It’s no wonder this makeup trend has been seen across social media, in high-end editorial shoots, and even on everyday sidewalks. If you wish to try the spider lash look for yourself, these makeup artists break it down with a step-by-step tutorial.
Meet the Experts
Nicole Walmsley is a celebrity makeup artist whose portfolio includes Ginnifer Goodwin, Rose McIver, and others.
Vincent Oquendo is a celebrity makeup artist whose portfolio includes Jenna Ortega, Florence Pugh, and many others.
What Are Spider Lashes?
Spider lashes involve applying numerous coats of mascara to your top and bottom lashes to create a chunky, spiky effect reminiscent of spider legs. “[Spider lashes could] be seasonal...but it’s also just a cool look,” says celebrity makeup artist Nicole Walmsley. “A chunky, full, slightly messy lash has personality. It’s a quick and simple way to add some attitude to your makeup without too much fuss, you don’t have to be precious about it.”
The spider lashes effect has been around for decades. The most notable examples, Walmsley says, are the baby doll lashes that were everywhere in the 1950s, Twiggy’s iconic lashes in the ‘60s, and the ‘90s era grunge looks.
“In recent years we’ve seen extreme, exaggerated examples of the spider lash, painstakingly built with feathers and metallic accessories,” Walmsley adds. “Gigi Hadid (by makeup artist Erin Parsons) or Lady Gaga’s incredible gold lashes (created by artist Sarah Tanno) at the 2019 Met Gala are great examples. We also saw beautiful feathered lashes designed by Pat McGrath for the Valentino Couture show in 2019.”
Celebrity makeup artist Vincent Oquendo says another iconic spider lash moment occurred on the Prada runway about a decade ago. “It was one of my favorite most iconic spider lash looks that Pat McGrath created,” Oquendo notes. “Tammy Faye Bakker also had some of the most iconic spider lashes.”
How to Get Spider Lashes
Modern-day versions of spider lashes take their cue from these notable beauty moments but have a more everyday wearable twist. Take, for example, Sienna Miller’s 2023 Met Gala look or any of Lucy Boyton’s gorgeous red carpet moments. Love the look? Here’s how to create spider lashes that are glamorous and effortlessly cool.
Step 1: Choose a Buildable Mascara
For the best results, Walmsley says to choose a mascara that adds both length and volume and one that stays wet enough between coats so you can easily layer one on top of the other.
For the job, Oquendo and Walmsley’s favorite mascaras include:
Clinique High Impact High-Fi Full Volume Mascara (ulta.com)
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara (amazon.com)
Lancôme Monsieur Big Volumizing Mascara (ulta.com)
Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara (sephora.com)
Step 2: Curl Your Lashes
Curling your lashes will really make your spider lashes pop, and it’s important to do this step before mascara application to ensure lash health. "Take your favorite eyelash curler and curl from root to tip,” Oquendo says.
Step 3: Layer Mascara on Lashes—Top and Bottom
The best way to achieve spider lashes is to layer, layer, and—you guessed it—layer again. “I would apply the first layer of mascara at the base of your lashes. This is an excellent opportunity to layer different mascaras if you prefer, or you can commit to just one,” Oquendo explains.
Tip
Walmsley prefers to layer in quick succession until you achieve the desired fullness. The pro also recommends not letting the mascara dry too much between layers.
Step 4: Clump Lashes Together
Once you’ve gotten your lashes as thick as you want them, Oquendo says to grab a pair of clean tweezers, like the Tweezerman Ultra Precision Slant Tweezer (tweezerman.com). “Use them to separate and point your lashes by pinching softly at the tip of several lashes to create a spider leg-ish lash effect,” Oquendo explains.
Step 5: Allow Time to Dry
Give your lashes some time to dry before doing anything else. Because there are so many layers, it may take longer to dry than just one or two coats of mascara.
Achieve Spider Lashes With Flash Eyelashes
Another way to achieve the spider lash look is to use flash eyelashes. Flash lashes are false lashes that are typically applied under your natural eyelashes to increase volume and length. Look for lashes that feature a separated, clumpy look to mimic the spidery eyelash trend.
How to Remove Spider Lashes
Removing your spider lashes may take a bit more effort than you’re used to. “Because there are so many layers, be patient when removing your mascara,” Walmsley says. “Use a waterproof eye makeup remover and be gentle.” Try the following two-step removal process.
Step 1: Use an Eye Makeup Remover
Start by lightly pressing a micellar water-soaked cotton round over closed eyes. Press for about 15 to 30 seconds to allow the cleanser to dissolve the mascara. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water (amazon.com) is a popular choice. Alternatively, use an oil-based cleaner, such as Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm (target.com).
Step 2: Wash Your Face
Follow up with a gentle gel or foaming cleanser, like Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser (ulta.com). If you have any residual mascara around your eyes, use a clean cotton tip soaked in micellar water to spot-clean and fully remove all mascara.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Getting Lash Extensions
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