"Ghost" eyelashes will be everywhere this fall

Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Beauty trends have become increasingly minimalist in recent years, and the latest trend to take over the summer is "ghost" eyelashes.

This is a very natural eye look, where the eyelashes are left almost untouched or slightly emphasized. You can skip mascara, apply eyelash serum, or choose a transparent mascara. The idea is to give up black mascara, even brown.

The look is especially practical during high temperatures and days at the beach, as it avoids smudging and running of eyeshadow.

According to makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff, the lack of mascara doesn't mean that the eyes lose definition. On the contrary, this method gives the beauty a fresher and more natural look.

Another way to draw attention to your eyes is with well-groomed eyebrows. "A full, raised eyebrow creates structure and draws attention to your eyes," says Sheriff.

The trend comes at a time when the popularity of eyelash extensions is also declining, while low-maintenance beauty is becoming increasingly popular. From low-maintenance hair to almost invisible manicures, the natural look is gaining ground.

And besides saving time and money, this approach may also be better for your lashes. According to Sheriff, not constantly applying and removing products can help prevent them from breaking.

"Ghost" eyelashes will be around in the fall too

Although many celebrities embraced this look over the summer, Zendaya made the trend even more sensational with her appearance during the promotional tour of the film "Odyssey."

Makeup artist Sangwon Jeon predicts that "ghost" eyelashes will continue to be present even in the fall of 2026.

"I believe they will continue to play an important role in the fall, as the desire for natural and minimalist makeup grows," he says.

According to Jeon, beauty is moving away from the idea that every facial feature has to be perfect or strongly emphasized. Soft, almost untouched lashes are part of this approach.

How to do makeup with “ghost” eyelashes

To avoid giving the impression that you're not wearing any makeup at all, focus on your skin.

Jeon suggests a light, even foundation, using concealer only where needed for redness or skin discoloration. The goal is to even out the look without completely covering it.

A little color on the cheeks gives the face liveliness and dimension, while a light shimmery shadow on the eyelids can give the eyes depth without weighing down the look.

Are they good for eyelashes?

Ophthalmologist Diane Hilal-Campo says this trend is especially beneficial for those who want to give their eyelashes time to recover.

Daily use of mascara, especially when it is not removed completely or when the eyes are rubbed while cleansing, can block follicles, cause inflammation of the eyelids and, over time, make eyelashes thinner, more fragile and more prone to breakage.

Therefore, periods without eyeshadow can give your eyelashes a chance to recover and your eyes a break from potential irritation.

If eyelashes are damaged by extensions, the doctor advises avoiding mascara and using a serum to strengthen and grow them.

"Not wearing eyeshadow reduces exposure to pigments and preservatives that can cause dryness and inflammation, and protects the sensitive eyelid glands, which are important for tear production and eye health," she explains.