“Bigger is better” has been a mascara mantra since its inception. Practically every tube of the inky stuff promises extreme length, blasted volume, and high impact. And who can forget about the thick, costly, time-consuming lash extensions that had people running to their appointments dutifully every two weeks? But just as Gen Z has done so many times before, they’re taking the old beauty standard and swapping it out for the complete opposite. This one’s not just a fleeting apparition, either. Ghost lashes are here, and you’re about to see this new beauty trend everywhere.
What Are Ghost Lashes?
Ghost lashes are your lashes, perhaps slightly enhanced, but otherwise very natural looking with very little product or major transformation. They’re called ghost lashes because they’re almost invisible—at least compared to the decades of thick, heavy, and clearly unnatural mascara look we’re so used to seeing.
“The ghost lashes are much like the no-makeup makeup look, really focusing on enhancing your natural lashes in an almost undetectable way,” explains Manuel Espinoza, a professional celebrity makeup artist and Black Radiance ambassador.
Tonya Riner, a celebrity makeup artist based in Houston, Texas, says this pared-back approach feels like a natural tipping point in the beauty world—a breath of fresh air in a landscape often dominated by heavy mascara. “Clean, bare, or barely-there lashes offer a sense of individuality, allowing the rest of your makeup to shine.”
The Benefit of Ghost Lashes
It’s only natural for trends to rise and fall, and often a trend emerges as a direct response to an existing trend. Perhaps it’s an attempt for contrarians to stand out—even if only for a little bit until the new becomes the old again. That said, ghost lashes are alluring because they’re fresh and new, and you cannot deny the appeal of their simplicity.
“Skipping mascara eliminates the risks of smudging, flaking, or clumping, while showing a willingness to edit your look,” Riner says. “Not every makeup style needs the added dimension mascara provides. In fact, lashes can sometimes detract from the vibe you’re trying to achieve.”
Also, you can’t deny the benefits of giving your lashes a break from goopy mascara. It’s sort of like taking a breather from gel or acrylic nails, or opting for gentle skincare days versus exfoliating every day.
“If youʼre someone who does lash extensions all the time, they can sometimes damage your lashes or rip them out—making your natural lashes a bit more fragile and frail,” Espinoza says. Washing mascara off every day can take a toll on your lashes, too. By going bare, you allow your lashes some room to grow.
How to Naturally Enhance Your Lash Line
The obvious way to sport ghost lashes is to skip mascara altogether. However, if you’re still looking for the tiniest tweaks of enhancement (sans dramatic mascara) there are ways you can give lashes some TLC so they look healthy and defined—just in a more natural way.
- Tightlining: For a touch of definition without mascara, tightlining with a shimmer eyeliner along the top lash line is a game-changer,” Riner says. “It creates a soft, reflective glow that feels ethereal.
- Smudged Eyeliner: At both the Dior and Peter Philips New York Fashion Week fall/winter 2024 shows, we saw dark eyeshadow at the roots without mascara. “I think we will see more people using dark eyeshadow at the roots to enhance the natural contour of their eyes,” Espinoza says. “This is because there are still many who are calling for experimental but wearable makeup looks.”
- Lash Serums: Lash serums continue to gain momentum, and are a great alternative to getting naturally long, dense lashes. Espinoza says, “I have had many clients talk to me about which lash serums they are using and how it’s been added to their skincare routine.”
- Clear or Brown Mascara: If bare lashes feel too bold, Riner suggests trying a clear or lightweight brown mascara. “Clear mascaras add a subtle sheen while nourishing lashes—a perfect middle ground for those hesitant to go fully bare,” Riner says. A brown mascara adds a bit more definition.
