Rufus R. Noble I discovered an odd-looking device in my mother’s vanity when I was 15, and it turned out to be an eyebrow curler. It was my first use, and it instantly made my eyelashes stand out. A decade later, I still use my eyelash curler but am not sure if I’m properly using it. What length should I use to curl my lashes? Do I apply it before or after using mascara It makes a difference whether I spend $10 or $25. Do I have to use it every day? Or am I inadvertently damaging my eyelashes by doing so?
Eyelash curlers, despite their intimidating appearance, are safe. However, you need to use them correctly so that they don’t pull your eyelashes out or pinch your eyes (ouch!). To learn more about the dangers of eyelash curlers and how to avoid them, I interviewed Andrew Colvin as well as Carly Giglio the manager of pro artistry at Stila Cosmetics.
Eyelash curling is not one of your first actions.
Experts recommend curling lashes before applying makeup. This is part of skin care preparation. This will open your eyes and allow you to see the shape of your eyes a little better. Colvin also stated, “If your undereye concealer is perfect, then you don’t want the lash tool to smudge it.”
You are not using a high-quality curler.
You want the best tools for curling your eyelashes. Avoid curlers with a slippery grip. They can catch on your eyelashes and cause them to become brittle. Our experts recommend the Surratt Beauty Remevee Lash Curler at $30. Colvin claims that the matte finish gives it a better grip than other curlers. Colvin says that this eyelash curler is more versatile than other curlers with a matte finish. Our experts recommend Kevyn aucoin’s The Eyelash Curler for those who are looking for something a little more affordable. It costs $21.
The eyelash curler is not being held correctly.
Giglio says to place your thumb and index fingers into the designated grip holes. Then, open the curler wide enough so that your top lashes can fit between the rubber cushioned and metal top. You should get as close as possible to the roots of your eyelashes without touching your skin. Close the curler to your lashes by pressing down.
You’re not using proper technique.
Colvin suggests pumping your curler up to the roots four to eight times, and then going along the lashes to achieve a final curl. He says that this gives the lashes a curve and less crimp than pumping them in the same spot a lot of times. A crimp will result in eyelashes being bent into an L-shaped shape, rather than a gentle curve. How long should the curler be held on your lashes for? Giglio suggests that you clamp down and hold the curler for approximately five seconds.
You are using too much force.
The key to success is slow and steady. Colvin suggests that you use the curler lightly, and not pulling them outwards or crimping. You don’t have to use a lot force if you have a good lash curler. You should not squeeze too hard as this can cause lashes to fall out or be pulled out.
Your eyelash curler is not being heated.
The heat will lock the curl in your eyelash curler. Holding a blow-dryer near your eyelash curler for a few seconds can help lock in the curl. To avoid burning your eyes, make sure you blow on the metal curler before you apply to your lashes. If you have a hard time curling your lashes, this trick may work. You can also curl your eyelashes with a heated curler. Colvin loves the Lash Star Heated Lash Styler for $24, which is a ceramic rod that he claims is great for styling coarse eyelashes.
Apply mascara first curling your lashes.
Experts agree that this is one of the biggest mistakes when curling your eyelashes. Giglio explains that mascara will not give you more volume or lift. Instead, it can make your lashes stickier and could be pulled out by the curler. You can curl your lashes after curling, but mascara that is volumizing and curling will keep them in place. She swears to Stila’s HUGE Extreme Lash Mascara at $23. It is lightweight and won’t affect the shape created by the eyelash curler.
