Soft, bare, beautiful: What’s the ghost lash beauty trend

Move over fluttery falsies, ghost lashes are bringing an otherworldly spin to everyday glam. Think barely-there wisps that look like they’ve floated straight out of a ‘90s music video. The trend, which has been embraced by celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, Pamela Anderson and Athiya Shetty on occasions, is said to be a comeback of the 90s — a time when makeup often favoured bare, undone lashes over heavy mascara. Amanda Bell, global director, makeup artistry, Pixi Beauty, tells us, “Ghost lashes draws on the minimalist, slightly grunge-inspired beauty of the 1990s. Revival of the trend shows that people are ready to move away from stereotypical glamour towards something more artful and nuanced.”

What are ghost lashes

They are ultra-light, barely-there lashes that give the illusion of soft definition without looking overly done. Nishi Singh, a celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist, explains, “Instead of thick, voluminous falsies or heavy mascara coats, ghost lashes focus on separation, tint, and a feathery finish. They often appear almost invisible but still subtly enhance the eye, like a no-mascara-mascara effect.”

A part of ‘clean girl’ aesthetics

Earlier, lashes used to be all about OTT volume, length, and glamour. Thick falsies, extensions, and layers of mascara were used to make eyes pop. Today, ghost lashes mark a sharp shift: soft, feathery, almost bare lashes that feel effortless and natural. Dr Noopur Jain, a dermatologist, Skinzest,says, “This trend reflects a shift from bold to minimalistic and subtle appearances. Consumers now prioritise elegance over high-maintenance glamour, with beauty shifting towards lightweight, breathable, skin-first routines. Imperfection and individuality are being embraced, and makeup is now seen as a tool to enhance rather than dominate one’s natural features.”

Tips to perfect ghost lashes

While one cannot achieve ghost lashes since it is something that naturally exists, they can definitely be perfected to elevate one’s overall look.

• Ensure you curl your lashes well since you’re not relying on a thick mascara
• Use a clear gel or a brown mascara instead of a black one for softness. Remove excess mascara from your wand with a tissue. Apply one light coat, rolling the wand from root to tip
• Then separate lashes with a clean spoolie for a gentle and feathery effect
• If you want more definition without heavy lashes, apply a thin line of brown/black liner at the roots
• Pair ghost lashes with dewy skin, fluffy brows, and a glossy lip. It’s a look that feels straight out of a fashion magazine but is still easy enough to pull off in everyday life

(As suggested by Nishi Singh & Amanda Bell)