5 Best Magnetic Lashes of 2022

Our Good Housekeeping Institute Health, Beauty & Sustainability Lab evaluated every magnetic eyelash and magnetic eyeliner recommended above with Michael S. Brown, Ph.D. In our test, we cross-checked the magnetic liner’s ingredients against the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classification and the current Proposition 65 (Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 – Prop 65) list. We also utilized the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) database to verify the safety of several ingredients. Our recommendations do not include any magnetic eyelash and eyeliner kits that:

• Lack an ingredient list on its packaging, according to the FDA Declaration of Ingredients
• Have incorrectly spelled or shortened ingredients
• Contain triethanolamine, a potential skin and eye irritant
• Contain carbon black in its nano form

Elise Brisco, OD, CCH, integrative optometrist and clinical homeopath, says yes, overall, magnetic lashes are safe to use around the eyes. She explains that magnetic eyelashes are even better than using traditional false eyelashes because you don’t need to apply glue close to the eye area. Magnetic eyeliner contains iron oxides, which are tiny, pigmented minerals commonly found in cosmetics, that are FDA-approved for use around the eyes, according to Andrea Thau, M.D., a past president of the American Optometric Association. “There does not appear to be any risk with the small amount of electromagnetic frequency emitted by the magnets.” To be extra safe:

✔️ Read the directions on the package. Whether or not you’re a pro at applying false eyelashes, each kit is unique and has its own set of instructions.

✔️ Don’t share your eyelashes with friends. “Make sure you keep them clean so you don’t give yourself an eye infection,” says Dr. Brisco. “Wash your hands before handling anything close to your eyes.”

✔️ Remove them before you go to bed. “When you don’t clean your eyelids well, or remove makeup and false eyelashes, you risk getting an eye infection,” says Dr. Brisco.

There are some potential hazards associated with magnetic eyelashes, including allergic reaction, irritation, eyelid fatigue, lashes falling out and corneal abrasion, says Dr. Thau. The important thing to remember when wearing eyelashes or applying any eye makeup is to practice good hygiene habits, including washing your hands frequently, avoiding rubbing your eyes as much as possible and not sharing makeup.

If you are sensitive to certain metals, Dr. Thau recommends a patch test to check for any negative reactions before using the product near your eyes. “I would also recommend patients with sensitive eyes avoid wearing false eyelashes every day,” she advises. “Take breaks every few days so lashes and the area around your eyes can breathe and rest.”

Dr. Thau also notes that magnetic eyelashes are unsafe for MRI and must be removed before entering the MRI zone. “The scan uses a magnetic field and could cause injury or complications if magnetic lashes are present,” she says. “Patients should remember to mention it to the technologist or remove them before an MRI.”

“First, curl your natural lashes and apply a layer of mascara so that the falsies will hold better,” says René. “If you apply them on a bare lash it will likely slide off.” Makeup artist Lydia Arroyo finds it’s easiest to set the lash down in the middle, then adjust the outer corner and save the inner corner for last. GH Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann has her own method of magnetic lash application for those without liner: “I found the easiest way put them on was to hold the top lashes with my fingers and snap the bottom on with tweezers,” she says. But if you’re not comfortable using tweezers, you can buy little lash applicator tools with rounded edges on them.”

Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann oversaw the ingredient review for every magnetic lash recommendation in this article. During her over 10-year tenure at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab, she regularly tests makeup products in Lab, including some of the magnetic lashes in this article. Associate Product & Reviews Editor Jacqueline Saguin collaborated with Wizemann and interviewed industry experts to put together a comprehensive list of our picks. She road tested the remaining magnetic lashes on both herself and her peers.

We also consulted outside experts, including celebrity makeup artists, ophthalmologists and environmental experts. Michael S. Brown, Ph.D, is the founder of BWE, an environmental and sustainability management consulting firm. Andrea Thau, MD, is the former president of the American Optometric Association. Elise Brisco, OD, CCH, is an integrative optometrist and clinical homeopath. Lydia Arroyo is a professional makeup artist. Maya René is a celebrity makeup artist.