How to Use Eyelash Curler Properly Without Breaking Lashes

Written by Ahmed
Updated June 3, 2025

Want to curl your lashes with an eyelash curler? Knowing how to use an eyelash curler properly makes all the difference. With the right technique, eyelash curler use lifts your lashes for a natural, wide-awake look. Follow these quick steps to get perfect curls every time.

When to Use an Eyelash Curler

The perfect time to use eyelash curler is right before mascara. Curling your lashes first gives them a natural lift and helps mascara stay in place longer. Avoid curling after mascara to prevent lash damage.

How to Properly Use an Eyelash Curler

Grab the Right Eyelash Curler

Choose an eyelash curler that fits your eye shape. It should cover your lashes without touching your eyelid. A soft rubber pad is important. It protects your lashes from damage. Check the pad often. Replace it if it gets worn out. A good curler makes curling safer and easier.

Make Sure Your Lashes Are Dry and Clean

Always curl dry lashes. Wet lashes or fresh mascara can stick to the curler. This can pull out lashes or cause breakage. Clean your lashes before curling. Use an oil-free makeup remover to take off mascara. Clean lashes hold their curl better and last longer.

Get Close — But Don’t Pinch

Place the curler at the base of your upper lashes. Be very careful not to pinch your skin. Open your eyes wide and look slightly down. This helps avoid pinching. Hold the curler steady and stay calm. Rushing can cause accidents and hurt your lashes.

Pulse, Don’t Press Too Hard

Gently squeeze the curler for 5 to 10 seconds. Don’t squeeze too hard. Pressing too hard can break your lashes. Instead, try pulsing — opening and closing the curler a few times. Move the curler up your lashes in small steps. This curls your lashes from root to tip.

Curl First, Then Apply Mascara

Always curl your lashes before applying mascara. Mascara makes lashes sticky and stiff. Curling after mascara can make lashes stick to the curler and break. After curling, apply mascara starting at the base. Wiggle the wand as you go up. This holds the curl and adds volume.

Don’t Skip This Step – Clean Your Eyelash Curler

Eyelash curlers trap makeup and oils in tiny gaps. If you don’t clean a eyelash curler regularly, bacteria and dirt build up. This causes eye irritation and infections. Using rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab helps sanitize these hard spots properly.

The rubber pads on eyelash curlers soak up mascara and oils over time. When pads get dirty or worn out, lashes stick and pull, leading to breakage. You must clean or replace the pads often to avoid lash damage and poor curling.

Heated eyelash curlers get residue stuck faster. Leftover makeup can burn or clog the heating element. If you skip cleaning, the curler won’t work well and can smell bad. Heated curlers need thorough cleaning after every use.

Metal parts rust and rubber pads crack if you never sanitize your curler. Dirt and grime wear down the tool quickly. Not cleaning your eyelash curler shortens its life and makes it unsafe for your lashes.

Storing your eyelash curler wet or in a closed case traps moisture. This leads to bacteria growth. Dirty, damp curlers increase the risk of eye infections. Always dry and sanitize before storing your curler in an open, dry place.

Pros and Cons of Using Eyelash Curler

Pros

Gives precise control over how much curl you want by adjusting pressure and angle.
Instantly makes your eyes look bigger and more awake without extra products.
Small and easy to carry for quick touch-ups anywhere.
Helps mascara stay put by curling lashes first, preventing drooping.

Cons

Easy to pinch skin or pull lashes if not used carefully, which can cause pain and damage.
Frequent or aggressive curling can weaken lashes, making them brittle and prone to breakage.

Keep in Your Mind

Eyelash curlers are safe for most people aged 12 and up. Always use them gently to protect your lashes. Make sure your lashes are clean and completely dry before curling. Curl before applying mascara. This helps prevent lash breakage. Clean and sanitize your curler regularly. Replace the rubber pads every few months. This keeps your curler working well and avoids irritation.

FAQs

Is it safe to use an eyelash curler every day?

Using an eyelash curler every day can be safe if you’re careful. It’s important to avoid curling wet lashes because they’re more fragile and can break easily. Never curl after applying mascara to prevent lashes from sticking and snapping. Use gentle pressure and replace rubber pads often to protect your lashes and maintain hygiene.

Do you use a lash curler before or after mascara?

Always use a lash curler before applying mascara. Mascara hardens lashes and makes them sticky, which increases the risk of pulling out lashes or uneven curls if you curl afterward. Curling first shapes your natural lashes and allows mascara to hold the curl longer, giving a cleaner, more lifted look.

What’s the best way to use an eyelash curler?

Start by making sure your lashes are clean, dry, and free from mascara. Place the curler as close to the lash roots as possible without pinching the skin. Gently squeeze and hold for about 8 to 10 seconds. For a natural effect, move the curler slightly up the lashes and repeat. Replace the rubber pads regularly for a smooth curl and less lash damage.

How long should you hold an eyelash curler?

Hold the curler gently for about 5 to 10 seconds at the base of your lashes. Pressing for too long or too hard can cause lashes to weaken and break. Instead of a long squeeze, pulse the curler open and closed a few times to build a natural, lasting curl without stressing the lashes.

Are eyelash curlers good for your eyelashes?

Eyelash curlers can be good when used correctly. They lift and shape lashes without heat or chemicals, which is safer than some alternatives. However, improper use—like curling after mascara or pressing too hard—can damage lashes. Regular cleaning and pad replacement help prevent infections and keep lashes healthy.

What do eyelash curlers do?

Eyelash curlers lift and bend lashes upward from the base, making eyes look larger and more awake. They help create a natural curl that mascara alone often can’t achieve. Curlers also improve mascara application by providing a curved base that holds product better and prevents lashes from drooping throughout the day.

Can anyone use an eyelash curler?

Most people can use an eyelash curler with practice. It requires a steady hand to avoid pinching skin or pulling lashes. People with very short or sparse lashes may find it harder to curl effectively. Choosing a curler that fits your eye shape and replacing worn pads regularly will improve comfort and results.

2 Responses

Abdul Hadi says:

June 3, 2025 at 5:55 pm

This article really nails the basics of how to use an eyelash curler! Good content.

Reply
1. Muhammad Ahmed says:
  
  June 3, 2025 at 5:56 pm
  
  Thanks so much!
  
  Reply