Is My Eyelash Curler Bad For My Eyelashes?

Eyelash curlers have been around since the 1930s but does that mean you should be using one? If you’re wondering if your eyelash curler is doing you more harm than good you’re in the right place.

Keep reading for a lash technician’s best advice to achieve effortlessly long lashes of your own.

 

Are eyelash curlers bad for your lashes? 

When used correctly, a good quality eyelash curler isn’t all that bad for your lashes. 

But here’s the thing. If you’re not sure what you’re doing or are using a poor quality eyelash curler, you’re probably doing some serious damage to your lashes.

When using an eyelash curler, you shouldn’t be pulling, blunting or cutting your lashes. And worse still, if you don’t remember to clean your eyelash curler after every use, you risk getting an eye infection. 

You absolutely can use an eyelash curler without causing serious damage to your lashes. Just make sure you know what you’re doing (my expert tips are below if you’re not sure), invest in the quality eyelash curler, keep your curler clean, and don’t go sharing your eyelash curler around (because ick!). 

 

Are eyelash extensions a better alternative?

While I’m all for an eyelash curler, sometimes, even when used correctly, they just can’t deliver the long-lasting curl your lashes deserve. 

This could be because your lashes are annoyingly determined to point downwards or because your natural lashes are simply too short to achieve the look you’re after. 

If this sounds like you, or you simply can’t be bothered using an eyelash curler and mascara combo on the daily, eyelash extensions are a saviour. 

Trust me, my clients love them because they provide an effortless lift and curl. Say goodbye to fighting with your lashes every morning and hello to waking up with effortlessly long lashes.

 

Can I use an eyelash curler on my eyelash extensions? 

Using an eyelash curler on your eyelash extensions is a big no-no. Your lashes might get stuck or you could end up pulling them out. Not exactly the effect you’re going for!

Fortunately, this thought shouldn’t even cross your mind because good quality eyelash extensions will remain curled. 

If you’re having issues with your eyelash extensions or want to find out more, you can book a consultation with me here.

 

How to use an eyelash curler safely 

1. Find a curler that works for you

Not all eyelash curlers are made equal. Some lesser quality tools might leave you with an unflattering crimp across your lashes (not the natural lift you’re looking for). 

You might have to go through some trial and error to find one that also fits the length and shape of your lash line. But as with all things, the answer lies somewhere on the internet. Get searching!

2. Grab your mirror and tilt your head back 

For starters, make sure you’re starting on clean, BARE lashes. Using a mechanical eyelash curler on mascaraed lashes or eyelash extensions is a one-way ticket to having fewer lashes by the end of your beauty routine (#ripsville). 

Looking in the mirror, tilt your head back so you’re working on an angle. This can help avoid pinching your lash line when you clamp down. 

3. Clamp it!

Shimmy the eyelash curler towards the base of your lashes. One of the most common mistakes is not curling your lashes close enough to the base. The result is flat lashes that suddenly go straight up at the end, which looks a little off. 

I know getting a lash curler up close and personal with your eyeball is a little unnerving the first few times – but you get used to it. If you’re worried about pinching your eyelid skin, wiggle the curler into place at the base of your lashes and gently press down to make sure it’s in the right place. 

Once you feel comfortable with the position, press down on the handle and squeeze a few times. You don’t have to hold down tight for two minutes straight (talk about uncomfy). Give it a few good squeezes for five or so seconds, then release. 

To make the curl more of a “curve” shape, move the curler along your lashes, clamping, then releasing, three to four times until you reach the tips. 

4. Lock it in

If you’re a mascara-wearer, swipe on some mascara to lock in your curl for the day. Start at the base of your lashes, building volume there, before coating the ends of your lashes. Adding too much product to the ends creates extra weight, meaning your lashes could get weighed down and reverse the curling effect. 

5. Practice good hygiene 

Just like any other beauty tool that’s all up in your face, you want to make sure you’re keeping it clean. But especially when it comes to an eyelash curler, which goes right on your eye! 

To avoid infection or a stye, clean your eyelash curler with makeup remover or rubbing alcohol after each use. And because lash curlers can get pretty grimy, they need a deep clean every month, too. Get it all sudsy in soap and water, pop the curler pad off, and get in there. 

 

How often should you change eyelash curler pads?

Eyelash curler pads get worn down over time, which can result in a less effective curl. The answer? When you notice the pads aren’t looking as fresh as they once did, swap them out for a new one. 

This tends to happen around the three-month mark (depending on how often you use them). Depending on what brand your eyelash curlers are from, you should be able to purchase replacement pads fairly cheaply. 

Because all eyelash curlers are shaped slightly differently, you can’t just buy any old pad and pop it in. So, before you drop cash on a lash curler, make sure you can get hold of replacement pads (otherwise you’ll have to buy a whole new lash curler when the pads eventually dull). 

Want to simplify your beauty routine? Skip the eyelash curlers and see what the eyelash extension hype is all about! Book a consultation online now.