Bottom Lashes vs No Bottom Lashes: Which Look to Wear

Bottom lashes. The beauty world’s most debated topic. Should you layer them under your top lashes, or keep your lower lash line clean? The short answer: it depends on your eye shape, the occasion, and the look you’re after. Here’s how to decide.

THE SHORT ANSWER: IT DEPENDS ON YOUR EYE

If you have round or protruding eyes, adding a small, sculpted bottom lash can open your eyes wider and balance them beautifully. If you have deep-set or hooded eyes, skipping the bottom lash is safer — it keeps the eye area from looking too busy. For most people, I recommend starting with a half lash on the outer bottom corner rather than a full strip. That gives you the definition without the heaviness of a full lash line. The key is to choose a bottom lash that is thinner and shorter than your top lash, so it accents instead of competes.

WHEN BOTTOM LASHES MAKE YOUR EYES POP

You have round eyes — Bottom lashes shape the lower curve and make your eyes appear larger and more symmetrical.
You want a sultry, doe-eyed look — If your top lashes are long and dramatic, a lid lash on the bottom creates that anime-esque impact without needing more mascara.
Your top lashes are short and sparse — Adding bottom lashes can shift the focus and distract from a less-than-dense top lash line. Balance is everything.
You’re going for a vintage glam vibe — For a 60s or 70s inspired look, bottom lashes are non-negotiable. They make the whole eye feel intentional.

WHEN TO SKIP BOTTOM LASHES ENTIRELY

You have hooded eyes — Lower lash definition can make a hooded eye look even heavier and close it off. Keep the bottom lash line clear.
Your eyes are close-set — Dark bottom lashes inside the inner corner can bring eyes closer together. If they’re close, leave them out.
You want a clean, natural look — For professional photos or daytime activities, skipping lower lash definition lets the top lash shine without visual clutter.
Your eyes are sensitive — The skin near your lower lash line is thin and delicate. If you know you’ll have a reaction or experience tearing, skip it.

HOW TO APPLY BOTTOM LASHES WITHOUT THE STRUGGLE

Start with a tiny dot of glue on the back of your hand. Use a pair of tweezers to slowly pull the bottom lash from the tray.
Let the glue become sticky for about twenty seconds. Then place the lash under a few of your natural bottom lashes, not directly on the waterline.
Press gently along the lash line. For a more subtle look, place it slightly farther down on the skin, below your lash line.
Do not use mascara immediately — you don’t want to clump the tiny lashes. Let the glue dry fully, then brush the area lightly with a clean mascara wand to blend.

If you’re still torn whether to wear them, test both looks in natural light. Stand in front of a window and take a selfie with and without bottom lashes. Look at your whole face, not just your eyes. Whichever option makes you look more rested and confident is the right one for you. Trust your eye, not a trend.

When you do decide to try bottom lashes, the best set is one that feels effortless to handle. You want baby lashes that are delicate but not impossible to place. Look for a pair that already has a tiny amount of curl, so you don’t have to press them into shape. And make sure the band is a thin clear or transparent brown rather than black — that makes blending them into your lower lash line look much more natural.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear bottom lashes every day? Yes, but keep them very natural and light. If your eyes get irritated easily, give your lower lash line breaks.

What is the best way to remove bottom lashes? Soak a cotton pad with makeup remover, press gently on the lash for 20 seconds, then pull it off slowly from the outer corner. Do not pull while dry.

Should bottom lashes be longer than top lashes? No. Bottom lashes should be about 40-50% of the length of your top lashes. That keeps the eye balanced and avoids a confused, messy look.

I’ve tried all types of bottom lash sets, and the only ones I trust with my delicate outer corner are PHANSTA LASHES. They’re light enough that you can go a full day and forget which area is wearing a lash. If you’re ready to try the bottom lash vs. no bottom lash battle for yourself, start with a pair that won’t fight your eye.

SHOP PHANSTA LASHES