How to Keep Eyelashes Curled: 6 Tips for Curling Lashes

Use this step-by-step tutorial for curling your eyelashes with an eyelash curler.

1. 1. Gently press the curler on your lashes. Place the eyelash curler over the base of your top lashes and press it down. Hold it closed, gently pulsing a few times with additional pressure, for five to ten seconds.
2. 2. Move the curler forward. Gently pulsing the curler along the length of the lashes can help achieve a more dramatic curl. Move the curler forward a bit at a time, pulsing gently when you do, and move it back down to the base of the lashes for one last pressure application.
3. 3. Apply your mascara. After using a lash curler, you can apply mascara to help lock in the curl. This will also thicken your lashes, producing a dramatic look to frame your eyes. You can use an eyelash comb to remove any clumps.
4. 4. Clean your eyelash curler. After each use, you should wipe down the rubber pads with an alcohol solution to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause eye infections.

There are different styles of eyelash curlers for various eye shapes. The eyelash curler most effective for you matches your eye shape. For example, if your eyes are round, pick an eyelash curler rounder in shape; if you have almond eyes, pick a less curved eyelash curler.

Follow these tips for optimal long lashes and an all-day lash lift:

1. 1. Curl your lashes before applying mascara. Your eyelashes should be the final part of your eye makeup process. Apply eye shadow and eyeliner, then curl your eyelashes, then apply mascara.
2. 2. Use waterproof mascara. In comparison to regular mascara, waterproof mascara is more durable and longer-lasting.
   
3. 3. Heat your eyelash curler. Use a heated eyelash curler, or dip your mechanical eyelash curler in a cup of hot water or give it a blast with your hairdryer. The heat can increase the effectiveness of the curling. Be sure to test it with your hand to ensure you haven’t added too much heat, which can damage your delicate lashes. Use the heated mechanical eyelash curler before you apply mascara.
4. 4. Apply eyelash extensions. To create a more dramatic makeup, you can apply eyelash extensions or falsies. When curling, be sure to curl your real lashes close to the base of the lash line.
5. 5. Use petroleum jelly. Before lash curling, apply some petroleum jelly to your bare, straight lashes to hydrate them. The petroleum jelly will help your lashes stay curled longer.
6. 6. Get close to your lash line. To avoid an unsightly crimp to your eyelashes, make sure you begin as close as you can to the base of your lash line, which helps produce a more even curl.

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