5 Ways To Curl Your Eyelashes When They Are Straight

Amp up your eye makeup with the right tips and techniques to get perfectly curled lashes.

Reviewed by Abhilasha Singh, Licensed Cosmetologist Abhilasha Singh Abhilasha SinghLicensed Cosmetologist facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by Esha Saxena, MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) Esha Saxena MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature) Madhumati Chowdhury MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Fact-checked by Vaishali Sinha, MA (Comparative Literature) Vaishali Sinha MA (Comparative Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
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If you want fuller-looking, longer lashes, curling is a must. Besides, curling your eyelashes opens up your eyes and makes them appear larger. So, whether your lashes are naturally straight or have flattened out due to poor maintenance or other reasons, this tiny step can really help your eyes stand out. Using an eyelash curler (before you apply your mascara) is a surefire way to give your lashes that dramatic extra oomph and add it to their beauty, but did you know that there are a bunch of other ways you can curl your eyelashes? Want to know more? Read on to find everything you need to know about how to curl eyelashes.

Different Ways To Curl Eyelashes

Using a curl spoolie aids lash enhancement. If you happen to catch yourself without an eyelash curler, here are some alternative methods you can try (these may not work as efficiently as an eyelash curler, but they will do the trick).

But first, let’s cover the basics of curling using an eyelash curler for those of you who have this tool but never really use it (because it looks like a torture device of some sort?)

1. How To Curl Eyelashes Using An Eyelash Curler

Curl your eyelashes using an eyelash curler
Image: Shutterstock
What You Need
  • Eyelash curler
  • Mascara
Step By Step Tutorial
  1. Hold your eyelash curler. Once your curler is completely open, ensure you get its rubber strip right up to the root of your upper lashes.
  2. Now that your lashes are inside, place the curler in an upright position (its curve is supposed to face outwards.) Gently close the curler on your lashes and squeeze lightly with a pulsing grip.
  3. Slowly turn your curler upwards – its curve must align with the curve of your eyelid crease.
  4. Don’t blink or move – hold the curler in place for a few seconds.
  5. Gently press your curler with the same pressure and move it from the roots of your lashes to the tip.
  6. If you aren’t satisfied with the curl, you can repeat this step again until you achieve the desired result.
  7. Apply your cosmetic mascara and say hello to thicker and attractive lashes in just a matter of seconds!

“Eyelash curling has to be done before applying mascara once and repeat the process again post mascara application,” advises Licensed Cosmetologist Abhilasha Singh. This hack ensures your the curled shape remains intact for a long time.

You can try the Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler – you get great quality at an affordable price.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You may also heat the eyelash curler to get fast and stunning results. Hold it under the blow dryer for 10 seconds before using it.

2. How To Curl Eyelashes With Mascara

Curl your eyelashes using mascara
Image: Shutterstock
What You Need
  • Curling Mascara (preferably a lightweight, waterproof one)
Step By Step Tutorial
  1. Learn how to apply mascara so your lashes look curled to perfection. Start by using the mascara wand to curl your lashes. Move the wand across the roots in a zigzag motion.
  2. Now, hold the wand at the roots of your lashes for a few seconds.
  3. Slowly move towards the tips.
  4. Apply a second coat to hold the curl and for some extra volume.

Try the Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara with a revolutionary fanning brush to achieve the most glamorous and pretty lashes.

protip_icon Quick Tip
Always wait 30-40 seconds before applying the second coat of mascara. Apply it in the same direction as you curled your lashes to get the best results.

3. How To Curl Eyelashes With Spoon

Curl your eyelashes using a spoon
Image: Shutterstock
What You Need
  • A spoon
  • Mascara
Step By Step Tutorial
  1. Grab a clean spoon that is thin from the sides.
  2. Run the spoon under hot water (not to the extent that it burns your skin.)
  3. Hold the spoon against your eyelid, right at the lash line, and press your lashes against its curve.
  4. Press your finger on the lashes against the edge of the spoon.
  5. Apply your mascara to set and hold the curl.
  6. If you are wondering how to fix any clumpy lashes, carefully comb your lashes while the mascara is still semi-wet. This will remove excess product and clumps on your lashes.

Keisha, a blogger, shares her personal experience of curling her lashes with a spoon. “I’ve been trying forever to put on false eyelashes without them looking…well, false. I’ve given up so it’s on to Plan B.” She shares some quick tips and also a step-by-step guide in her blog to ace the process for beautiful eyelashes: “I like to use a toothpick to separate my eyelashes. This makes my lashes look full and defined (i)!”

4. How To Curl Eyelashes With A Warm Toothbrush

Curl your eyelashes using a warm toothbrush
Image: Shutterstock
What You Need
  • A clean toothbrush
  • Mascara
Step By Step Tutorial
  1. Start by placing a clean toothbrush in a mug of warm water for a few minutes.
  2. Shake off the excess water, and dry it up by pressing the brush into a clean towel.
  3. Use the warm toothbrush to gently brush through your lashes and hold at the tip to curl.
  4. If you don’t achieve your desired curl, rewarm the brush and repeat the process.
  5. Make sure your lashes have dried after curling. Then, apply at least two coats of mascara to finish and set the curled lashes.

5. How To Curl Eyelashes With Warm Hands

Curl your eyelashes with warm hands
Image: Shutterstock
What You Need
  • Clean, warm fingers
Step By Step Tutorial
  1. Warm your fingers by rubbing them back and forth against one another several times to generate heat.
  2. Now close your eyes and gently push your lashes against your lid. Press them so that they’re going up toward your brow, and hold them in place for a few seconds.
  3. You can repeat this process until you achieve the desired curl.
  4. Apply two coats of mascara to give your lashes volume and to set the curl.

Key Takeaways

  • It’s crucial to comprehend the structure of eyelashes in order to curl them properly.
  • Different eyelash curlers, like hot and handheld models, can produce various effects.
  • Before curling, using a product with a strong grip, like mascara or an eyelash primer, might help the curl last longer.
  • Alternative eyelash curling techniques, including employing a heated eyelash curling pad or a spoon, can produce interesting and successful results.
  • The key to preventing harm to the lashes is using the right method and delicate application.
  • You can find the ideal approach to curling your eyelashes by carefully experimenting with various techniques and tools.

Tips: How To Maintain Your Lashes And Curl Them Without Causing Damage

If you want to learn how to maintain your lashes, so they look healthy and long, and curl them without any hassle, here are some helpful eye makeup tips to follow!

  • Washing your face before bed is important, but it does not stop there. Make sure you take off every last bit of your makeup (even that almost impossible-to-remove waterproof mascara). If you sleep with traces of mascara or eyeliner on, chances are you’ll end up with an infection, and your lashes are likely to become dry and brittle. This will cause them to fall, and you’ll blame that expensive mascara for it, but it’s all on your grooming habits.
  • You can use micellar water or coconut oil to remove your eye makeup. Oils are a healthy alternative and leave your lashes nourished and moisturized.
  • Just like you look after the precious hair on your head, it’s important to do the same for your lashes. Pamper yourself with a lash serum or simply use castor oil for your eyelashes before heading to bed – you’ll wake up with healthier, fluttering longer lashes.
  • When you’re using an eyelash curler, you ought to be careful. Always use a clean eyelash curler – old makeup builds up and gets stuck on your curler. This needs to be cleaned out as it’s a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean the rubber cushion and metal holder using a makeup wipe. For deep cleaning, wash the eye curler with dish soap and let it dry overnight. Also, remember not to squeeze or tug too hard, because your lashes do have the tendency to lose elasticity and turn brittle.
  • It’s important to give your lashes a break every once in a while, and trust me, your lashes will thank you for it. You have no idea how many dyes and chemicals go in the making of your mascara, and these may hinder the natural growth of your lashes.
  • Make sure you replace your mascara every three months as the formula not only gets clumpy and dry, but your mascara wand is another breeding ground for bacteria, and there’s a high risk of you catching an eye infection.
  • Lastly and most importantly, follow a healthy diet. Eat foods that are rich in vitamins, which will promote the healthy growth of your lashes.

Infographic: 5 Different Methods To Curl Your Eyelashes

Curling your eyelashes can keep them looking fuller and longer. The procedure opens up your eyes and makes them appear larger. Now, who doesn’t want that! While eyelash curlers help you accomplish the desired results, you also can make use of other simple methods. In the infographic below, we have listed the 5 different ways to curl your eyelashes to add that extra oomph to your makeup. Check it out!

5 different methods to curl your eyelashes (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

It is time for you to rock your eyelashes! So, roll up your sleeves and grab all the tools that you need to curl eyelashes! Whether you want to do it with mascara, a spoon, a toothbrush, or just using your warm hands, all the methods that we have mentioned above barely need any effort. So, what are you waiting for then? Learn from the steps and follow the tips religiously to obtain the best results. But do not forget to eat healthy food to have naturally beautiful uplifted eyelashes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you train your eyelashes to stay curled?

No. You can’t train your eyelashes to stay curled. However, you can use an eyelash curler regularly to curl your lashes.

Do eyelash curlers ruin your lashes?

No. Eyelash curlers don’t ruin your lashes if used properly. You may feel a slight tug when using them, but there should be no pain.

How do you curl eyelashes with Vaseline?

You can dab a little Vaseline on your lashes before curling them. It helps keep them nourished and gives a fuller looking appearance.

Illustration: Ways To Curl Your Eyelashes When They Are Straight

Curl Eyelashes

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Say goodbye to flat, straight lashes that lose their curl. Watch this video to learn the secrets of keeping your lashes perfectly curled all day long. Trust us, it’s a game-changer!

Personal Experience: Source

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Abhilasha Singh
Abhilasha SinghLicensed Cosmetologist
Abhilasha Singh is one of the top bridal makeup artists and a celebrated Bollywood makeup artist with a decade of experience. She was the Creative and Business Head of Makeup for Jean Claude Biguine Salons and Spa - India.

Read full bio of Abhilasha Singh
Esha Saxena
Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

Read full bio of Esha Saxena
Madhumati Chowdhury
Madhumati ChowdhuryAssociate Editor
Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.

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Vaishali Sinha
Vaishali SinhaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Vaishali Sinha is a beauty and lifestyle writer with five years of experience in writing for various genres. She has a master’s degree in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University. She combines her passion for beauty and lifestyle topics with her artistic background as an Indian classical vocalist to bring a fresh and creative perspective to her writing.

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