Why the eyelash curler is my favorite makeup tool
If there is one makeup tool that delivers maximum impact with minimal effort, it’s the eyelash curler. In less than ten seconds, it can completely transform your eyes, making them look bigger, more open and instantly more awake.
For many women, false lashes feel too heavy or artificial for everyday wear. Eyelash extensions or a lash lift often require time, maintenance and a significant budget. The eyelash curler, on the other hand, works for almost everyone. It creates the illusion of longer, fuller lashes and gives the eyes a natural lift that no mascara alone can achieve. In my opinion, it truly deserves a permanent place in every woman’s makeup bag.
What makes eyelash curlers so intimidating?
In my makeup classes, I hear the same story again and again: an eyelash curler bought years ago, abandoned at the bottom of a drawer, never really used. Some clients even flinch at the sight of it, comparing it to a medieval torture device.
And yes, at first glance, the scissor-like shape can look a bit alarming. But eyelash curlers are designed purely for effectiveness. Once you understand how to use one properly, they quickly lose their “scary” reputation and become an indispensable part of your eye makeup routine.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the simple rules that allow you to curl your lashes safely, without pinching your eyelid or damaging your lashes.
The most important rule: always curl your lashes before mascara
This is the most important rule to remember. An eyelash curler should always be used on clean, bare lashes, before applying mascara. Even daily use is completely safe as long as your lashes are free of product.
Lashes are naturally flexible, but once coated with mascara they become more rigid and fragile. Curling them at that point increases the risk of breakage.
After cleansing your face or removing makeup, it’s also essential to wait until your lashes are completely dry. Like hair, lashes are hollow and retain moisture longer than you might expect. Damp lashes won’t hold a curl properly.
I’ve also noticed that in very humid climates, curling lashes can be more challenging. If you’ve ever wondered why your eyelash curler suddenly seems ineffective while travelling, humidity is often the reason.
The right posture (and facial expression) for perfect curl
Posture plays a bigger role than most people realise. I always recommend sitting or standing upright, as leaning forward makes precise positioning much harder.
To get the eyelid into the best possible position, raise your eyebrows as much as you can and slightly relax your eyelids. This little “grimace” straightens the lid and makes it much easier to reach the lash roots. No one is watching — and the result is worth it.
How to position your eyelash curler correctly
Open the eyelash curler and place the upper bar just above your lashes, right against the eyelid. It’s essential that the curler touches both the lashes and the eyelid. Slowly close the curler, without closing your eye, to check that no skin is being pinched. Once you’re sure the placement is correct, press gently but firmly and hold for a few seconds.
When you see your lashes pressed evenly against the upper part of the curler, you know you’ve positioned it correctly. The goal is to get as close to the lash roots as possible so the full length of the lashes is lifted. If you can feel the cool metal lightly against your eyelid, you’re exactly where you need to be.
There should be no visible gap between the lashes and the rim of the curler. If you pay attention to this detail, pinching your skin is very unlikely. A slight tug at the lash roots is normal and simply means the lashes are properly caught. Pain, however, is not.
If you don’t catch all lashes at once, simply reposition and repeat. Curling in several steps is perfectly fine and can even help you give extra lift to the outer corners.
Pro tips for a stronger, longer-lasting curl
For extra lift, try adding a second curl. After the first press, slightly open the curler without removing it, tilt the handle upward just a little and close it again at this new angle. This creates a more pronounced curve and opens the eyes even further.
Another professional trick is gently warming a metal eyelash curler to help set the curl. While I once witnessed a model using a lighter backstage — not something I recommend — a hair dryer is a much safer option. Always test the temperature first and make sure it’s only slightly warm to avoid burning the delicate eyelid skin.
Common eyelash curler mistakes to avoid
One of the most frequent mistakes I see is pulling on the eyelash curler while it’s closed. This can easily rip out lashes. It sounds obvious, yet it happens more often than you’d think.
Replacing the rubber pad regularly is also crucial. Once it shows a visible groove where the top bar hits, it’s time to change it. A damaged pad can trap and break lashes, undoing all your careful work.
How to choose the right eyelash curler for your eye shape
When a curl just won’t hold despite good technique, the issue is often the curler itself. Not all eyelash curlers suit all eye shapes. The width, curvature and opening angle vary significantly between models.
Ideally, the curler should match the shape and size of your eye so that all lashes can be lifted evenly in one press. If you frequently pinch your eyelid, the curler may be too rounded or too long for your eye shape.
In my experience, slightly wider curlers with a gentler curve work best for most eyes and are easier for beginners. A curler that opens wide also makes correct placement much more comfortable and precise.
My favourite eyelash curlers for beautifully open eyes
My absolute number one is the Surratt Relevée eyelash curler. It delivers consistently flawless results: wide, open eyes with a very natural finish. It’s comfortable, doesn’t pinch, doesn’t pull, and catches all lashes at once. The only downside is the price, and in Europe it’s only available online.
A long-time favourite among professional makeup artists is the Shu Uemura eyelash curler. Many consider it the industry standard. Personally, I find its very large, rounded shape works best on big eyes. Those with smaller or almond-shaped eyes may struggle with it. It’s no longer available in European stores but can still be ordered online.
The Shiseido eyelash curler is a bestseller for good reason. Its less rounded shape suits most eye shapes, and the construction is extremely durable. It comes with a spare rubber pad, which is also sold separately, making it an excellent long-term investment.
For a more affordable option, the Kiko eyelash curler is a great choice, especially for beginners. The shape works for most eyes, it opens wide and is comfortable to use. While it may not be the most robust design, it offers excellent value for the price.
After curling: why mascara matters
Once your lashes are curled, mascara helps enhance the curve and makes it last longer. Out of curiosity, I once curled only one eye and left the other untouched. Even without mascara, there was still a visible difference twelve hours later. That said, factors like humidity play a role, and mascara definitely helps lock the curl in place.
Need personalised eye makeup advice?
If you have questions about using an eyelash curler or would like advice tailored to your eye shape and lashes, feel free to get in touch. In my makeup classes — in person or online — I guide you step by step and help you master the techniques that truly make a difference.
By Louise Wittlich
