Beauty Debate: Should You Use an Eyelash Curler Every Day?

If you’ve never used one, an eyelash curler can seem like an intimidating contraption that you don’t want to put anywhere near your eyes. But once you get over that initial fear and give one a try, the lash-lifting and eye-opening effects are immediate and impactful. That’s why some won’t apply a swipe of mascara without giving their lashes a good curl first. Others, however, don’t deem the step a necessary addition to their daily routines — special occasions only. Here, two Makeup.com editors explain why they’re in either camp. 

The Case for Using an Eyelash Curler Every Day

When I first started wearing mascara, I couldn’t understand why my lashes didn’t look like the fluttery-lashed models in the ads after application. No matter what formula or wand shape I tried, my lashes still looked short and straight. After many years of trial and error, I’ve discovered two tricks that have transformed the look of my lashes. First, I always use a waterproof mascara because this type of formula helps hold a curl all day (my new fave is the L’Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara Waterproof). Second, I always start my lash routine by curling them at the root for 20 seconds on each eye (my favorite tool is the Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler, which is considered a holy grail in the makeup community). This lifts my lashes and gives them a voluminous, curled shape that the waterproof mascara then locks into place. If I don’t use an eyelash curler, my lashes remain straight despite my mascara wand’s best efforts. Now that I’m used to the boost an eyelash curler gives me, I’m completely hooked and can’t imagine skipping the all-important step. — Sarah, senior editor