How to convince everyone you have naturally thick, full lashes in 6 easy steps

From mascara and extensions to magnetic falsie strips and lifts, we’re always trying to figure out how to get thick lashes with wow factor. And here at Well+Good, our beauty editors have tried just about everything to find the fastest ways to get long, fluffy lashes. It’s taken a quite a bit of trial-and-error, but we’re pretty sure we’ve nailed down a few foolproof methods. Keep reading to uncover our favorite tips to full, striking lashes just in time for National Lash Day and beyond.

How to get thick lashes, according to the pros

1. Treat yourself to a lash lift

Want that fresh-faced #IWokeUpLikeThis look? You might want to invest in a lash lift—aka a perm for your eyelashes. Unlike lash extensions which can damage your lash line, lash lifts chemically curl your natural lashes so there’s no damage involved. The result is an effortless, bright-eyed look that lasts from 4-6 weeks, no mascara involved.

Curious? Watch what happens when Well+Good director of creative development Ella Dove gets a lash lift herself. Spoiler alert: the results might make you envious…

2. Get creative with your curler

Curling your eyelashes before applying mascara can take your lash game to a new level, but be strategic in how you do it. One easy way to really get that doe-eyed look is by heating up your curler with a hair dryer. Like a curling iron, the warm tool will shape your lashes up and around instead of straight out. Celebrity makeup artist Ashley Rebecca gives the full run-down here.

3. Try out tightlining

Master the art of illusion with “tightlining”—an eyeliner trick that gives you the look of false lashes without the falsies. All it takes is a little eyeliner, a steady hand, and presto—your lashes will look fuller and longer than ever before. Simply “connect the dots” of your lashes on your upper waterline for results that are totally swoon-worthy.

4. Consider CBD

The CBD trend has taken over, well, just about everything. Mascara is no different, and our lashes are thankful. Now, products like Milk Makeup’s Kush Mascara ($24) are taking our lashes higher and higher (see what I did there?). Since it’s made with CBD oil instead of other thickening ingredients, it allows for clump-free application while still maintaining volume. The best part is, it’s totally plant-based.

5. Seek out a serum

Like the hair on your head, your lashes require a little TLC  in order to grow to their longest, fullest potential. Enter: lash serums. These conditioning treatments are designed to strengthen and moisturize the lash follicle. So, with regular use, your lashes will start to grow thicker and fluffier over time.

6. Layer Strategically

Let’s be real: it’s rare one coat of mascara does the trick. But how many layers should you apply before getting into clumpy territory. Merrady Wickes, celebrity makeup artist and head of content at The Detox Market, says it all depends on your mascara formula—brands that aren’t too thin or thick can get a few layers for a fluffy look. She also suggests waiting for layers to dry in between applications to evenly coat the hairs.

You don’t need to break the bank to transform your lash routine. You couldn’t get this best-selling $10 mascara to clump if you tried, and these drugstore serums are as affordable as they are effective.