Lash Guides

If you’re wearing magnetic lashes, you’ve probably asked this at least once:

“Can I use mascara with magnetic lashes?”

Yes—but the safest rule is: mascara goes on your natural lashes, not on the magnetic lash band.
That one choice affects comfort, hygiene, and how long your lashes last.

If you’re new to magnetic lashes, start here: Magnetic Lashes 101 and our step-by-step tutorial on how to apply magnetic lashes.
And if mascara accidentally gets on your lash band, here’s the quick fix: how to clean magnetic lashes.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• When mascara helps (and when it ruins the look)

• The safest way to combine mascara + magnetic lashes

• What not to do (the fastest ways to damage lashes)

• How to clean your lashes if mascara gets on them

• The best LashNova styles if you want the “mascara look” with minimal product

Quick Answer: Can You Put Mascara on Magnetic Lashes?

You can, but it’s usually not recommended to apply mascara directly onto:

• the magnetic lash fibers

• the band

• the magnets

Why? Because mascara:

• adds weight (lashes can slip or feel heavy)

• creates buildup (more irritation risk)

• makes cleaning harder (shortens lash lifespan)

• can warp the shape if you scrub or soak

If you need a beginner refresh on magnetic lashes first, start here:
Magnetic Lashes 101 – What They Are & How They Actually Work

When Mascara Helps (And When It Doesn’t)

Mascara helps if…

• Your natural lashes are very straight or pale and you want them to “blend” into the magnetic lash

• You’re doing a soft glam look and want a bit more definition at the base

• You’re wearing lighter lashes and want slightly more impact

Mascara does not help if…

• You’re using it to “glue” your magnetic lashes in place
  (That’s a fit/prep issue—see: Why Your Magnetic Lashes Won’t Stay On)

• Your mascara flakes (flakes can fall into eyes and irritate)

• You’re layering heavily (it can look clumpy on camera)

If your eyes are easily irritated, this is also worth reading:
Do Magnetic Lashes Irritate Your Eyes? Possible Reasons & Easy Fixes

The Safest Routine: Mascara + Magnetic Lashes (Step-by-Step)

This routine is designed to keep lashes comfortable and reusable.

Step 1: Do your eye makeup first (keep it clean and non-flaky)

If you’re wearing contacts, follow the safest order:
Can You Wear Magnetic Lashes With Contact Lenses?

Step 2: Curl your natural lashes (optional but helpful)

A gentle curl helps your lashes meet the magnetic lash and reduces the “gap.”

Step 3: Apply a light coat of mascara to your natural lashes only

Key rules:

• One thin coat

• Focus on the roots → mid-length, not the tips

• Avoid clumpy, thick formulas

Then let it dry for 20–30 seconds.

Step 4: Apply magnetic lashes last

Follow the standard application method here:
How to Apply Magnetic Lashes (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

Step 5: Blend gently if needed (no aggressive brushing)

If you need blending:

• Use a clean spoolie on your natural lashes (not the magnetic lash band)

• Or pinch very gently at the base (light pressure only)

Can You Put Mascara Directly on Magnetic Lashes?

You can, but treat it as an “emergency” option, not a routine.

If you absolutely must:

• Use the lightest possible coat

• Apply only to the lash fibers (avoid the magnets/band)

• Avoid waterproof formulas

• Expect extra cleaning afterward

Why it’s risky

• Buildup makes lashes feel stiff and look less fluffy

• Scrubbing to remove mascara can bend the band

• Dirty fibers can trigger irritation over time

For long-wear comfort guidance, see:
Can You Wear Magnetic Lashes All Day?

Best Mascara Types to Use With Magnetic Lashes

If you’re using mascara with magnetic lashes, look for:

• Lightweight, non-clumping

• Low-flake

• Easy to remove

• Preferably non-waterproof for easier cleaning

Avoid:

• Super thick “dramatic volume” formulas

• Very dry mascaras that flake

• Heavy waterproof mascaras (harder to remove, more rubbing)

What If Mascara Gets on Your Magnetic Lashes?

1) Don’t scrape it off while it’s wet

Let it dry slightly, then clean gently.

2) Clean your lashes as soon as you can

Use the safe cleaning method here:
How to Clean Magnetic Lashes

3) Store them properly so they keep their shape

How to Store Magnetic Lashes So They Don’t Lose Shape

If your lashes are getting crushed or bent (often from aggressive cleaning), prevention matters a lot.

Troubleshooting: Common Mascara + Magnetic Lash Problems

Problem: Lashes feel heavier and slip

Mascara adds weight and can worsen grip—especially if you have oily lids.
Read: Magnetic Lashes on Oily Lids: Stop Slipping & Lifting Corners

Problem: My eyes feel itchy or watery

Usually flakes or buildup. Simplify your products and keep the band off the waterline.
Read: Do Magnetic Lashes Irritate Your Eyes?

Problem: My lashes look clumpy in photos

Too much mascara, or mascara on the magnetic lash fibers. Keep mascara minimal and focus on clean placement.
For “camera-ready” tips:
Magnetic Lashes for Weddings & Photoshoots

Problem: The lash band won’t sit right after cleaning

Band may be bent or warped. Proper storage helps:
How to Store Magnetic Lashes

Best LashNova Styles If You Want the “Mascara Look” With Less Mascara

If your goal is a defined, finished lash look without layering mascara, start with styles that already give a “done” effect.

Everyday definition: LunarMuse
A clean, polished look that often needs little to no mascara for blending.

More lift + drama (still wearable): Nebula Crown
Great when you want stronger definition—especially for events and photos.

Bold, high-impact moments: GlitzBabe
Fun for nights out, but if you use mascara, keep it light to avoid heaviness.

Browse all magnetic styles here: shop magnetic lashes
More tutorials and routines: Lash Guides
Back to the store: LashNovaBeauty.com

Final Thoughts: Yes to Mascara—But Keep It Light and Keep It on Your Natural Lashes

If you remember one rule, make it this:

Mascara on natural lashes = yes. Mascara on the magnetic lash band = usually no.

The safest routine is simple:

• Light mascara on your natural lashes

• Let it dry

• Apply magnetic lashes last

• Clean and store properly

That way you get the extra definition—without ruining your lashes.