If you want your eyes to look bigger and more awake, an eyelash curler is one of the quickest tools to use. It shapes your lashes to make them look fuller, longer, and more defined. Eyelash curlers give instant lift, but technique matters. Here’s how to use an eyelash curler safely and effectively without damaging your lashes.
When to Use an Eyelash Curler
Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara, never after, to avoid lash breakage. It’s best to use it on clean, dry lashes—right after cleansing your face and before any eye makeup.
For a longer-lasting curl, you can also warm the curler slightly with a blow dryer before use. Avoid curling lashes multiple times a day, as repeated pressure can weaken the lash shaft.
How Do You Use an Eyelash Curler
Select the Right Eyelash Curler
Choosing the correct eyelash curler is important for proper curling. Opt for a curler with a well-constructed frame and a cushioned rubber pad to prevent any damage to your lashes.
Curves vary: wider or rounder curlers work best for larger eyes, while flatter models suit smaller or almond-shaped eyes. High-quality curlers from trusted brands like Shu Uemura or Shiseido provide precision and durability, ensuring even pressure across the lashes without pinching or tugging.
Above given are top-rated options from Shu Uemura and Shiseido that users love for their performance and eye-safe design.
Prep Your Lashes
Clean, dry lashes are a must for successful curling. Any leftover mascara, oils, or makeup residue will interfere with the curler’s grip and can cause lashes to stick to the tool, resulting in uneven curls.
Use a gentle eye makeup remover to thoroughly clean your lashes. Allow them to dry fully before curling. It’s also recommended to curl your lashes before applying mascara—curled lashes that are coated with mascara can be more brittle and prone to breakage.
Warm the Eyelash Curler
Warm curlers create a more effective curl that holds longer, much like how heat helps hair curl better. To warm your curler, run it under hot water for a few seconds, or use a blow dryer on low for a few seconds.
Ensure the curler isn’t too hot—test it on the back of your hand to check for comfort. A warm curler works by mimicking the effect of heated curling tools, giving your lashes a more defined and lasting shape.
Position the Eyelash Curler Correctly
To get the best curl, position the curler correctly. Place it near the base of your lashes—about 1 to 2 millimeters from your eyelid. It’s crucial that the curler’s pads evenly touch your lashes, so make sure you’re not pinching your skin.
Gently clamp the curler around your lashes while keeping your eyelid taut to avoid any pulling. Avoid squeezing too tightly, as too much pressure could cause lashes to bend in unnatural ways. Focus on a steady, gentle grip.
Apply Gentle Pressure
Once the curler is in position, squeeze the handles gently and hold for about 8 to 10 seconds. Avoid applying too much force, as it could snap your lashes. You want a soft, natural curl, not a harsh kink.
If you desire more volume or lift, you can curl in sections: first at the base, then move up to the middle of your lashes, and finally to the tips. This gradual curling method ensures the entire lash is lifted evenly without looking crimped.
Release the Eyelash Curler Slowly
After holding the curler for 8-10 seconds, release it gently. Don’t rush the process—slowly release the handles to avoid tugging or damaging your lashes. If you feel any resistance, don’t yank the curler away; instead, gently loosen it to ensure no lashes are caught or stuck in the tool.
This method ensures that your lashes keep their newly formed curl.
Lock the Curl with Mascara
Mascara helps lock in the curl and adds volume. Apply mascara in short, upward strokes starting at the base of your lashes. Use the wand to wiggle from the roots to the tips, ensuring each lash is coated evenly.
For added definition, follow up with a second coat once the first has dried. For extra length or volume, you can layer on more mascara, but avoid doing so too quickly to prevent clumping.
Clean Your Eyelash Curler After Use
Keeping your eyelash curler clean is important for hygiene and effectiveness. Mascara buildup can stick to the pads, causing them to lose grip. Use a damp cotton pad or makeup wipe to clean the rubber pads, removing any residue after every use.
For a deeper clean, you can use a gentle soap solution and a soft brush to clean the curler’s frame and pads. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup, which can lead to eye infections or irritation.
FAQs
How often should I replace my eyelash curler?
You don’t need to replace the entire curler often—just the rubber pads. Change the pad every 2–3 months or sooner if you see wear, splits, or reduced bounce. A worn pad won’t grip properly and can damage lashes. Replace the entire curler every 1–2 years if the hinge becomes loose or the frame misaligns, as this affects pressure and precision.
Can I use an eyelash curler on lower lashes?
It’s not recommended. Lower lashes grow downward and are too short and delicate to fit safely in a curler. Curling them risks pinching skin or pulling lashes out. If you want definition, use a fine-tipped lower-lash mascara instead, or apply a light coat of waterproof mascara and comb through for lift.
Is it safe to curl lashes with mascara on?
No, and here’s why: mascara hardens lashes, making them less flexible and more prone to breakage under pressure. If you curl over mascara, especially dried product, you risk snapping lashes or sticking them to the curler pad. Always curl on clean, bare lashes. If you must re-curl during the day, gently warm the curler and clamp lightly for just 2–3 seconds—but only if the mascara is soft and flexible.
What should I do if my eyelash curler pinches my skin?
It means you’re either placing it too close to your eyelid or using the wrong shape for your eye. First, reposition the curler slightly away from the lash root—1–2 mm from the skin. Second, look for a curler that matches your eye curve. If your eyes are deep-set, hooded, or flat, a flatter or slimmer curler (like Shiseido or Surratt) will help. Always look down slightly and lift your chin when curling to create space between your lid and the curler.