It may surprise some people, but I’m slightly obsessed with curling my eyelashes. Not to an extreme level, but enough to admit it’s part of my daily routine. I love how a single tool can instantly open up almond-shaped eyes and give naturally straight lashes a soft, feminine lift. While most makeup artists advise curling lashes only before mascara, I take a careful risk. After my first curl and once mascara has fully dried, I gently curl them again. Even on rushed mornings, I keep an extra curler in my bag at all times. That said, this is truly a “do as I say, not as I do” situation, because I’ve seen too many horror stories of curlers pulling out lashes.
Why the Right Eyelash Curler Truly Matters
If there’s anyone who can tell a great eyelash curler from a disappointing one, it’s me—alongside professional artists like celebrity makeup artist Adam Sidwell. He explains that eyelash curlers are essential tools that support lash structure and enhance eye shape, helping the eyes appear refreshed and well-rested. Makeup artist and Sweed Beauty founder Gabriella Elio agrees, noting that a good curler instantly makes the eyes look awake and lifted.
Not All Eyelash Curlers Are Created Equal
Every eyelash curler is different, and subtle design features make a big impact. Elements like pad shape, clamp tension, eye fit, and lash compatibility determine whether you get a long-lasting curl or an uncomfortable pinch. I’ve tried curlers that barely worked and others that delivered dramatic lift in seconds. Below is a breakdown of the best eyelash curlers that have been tested, reviewed, and approved by experts for various eye shapes and lash types.
Best Overall Eyelash Curler
Shiseido Eyelash Curler
The Shiseido Eyelash Curler is a long-standing favorite among professionals and beauty lovers alike. Gabriella Elio praises its firm structure and ability to curl lashes beautifully. With a 4.7-star rating at Nordstrom, it’s known for delivering a strong, lasting curl.
An ELLE editor shares that this curler transformed her routine, lifting even short, straight lashes so high they nearly touch her brows. Its straighter edge allows for a secure grip at the lash base, creating a fuller lift that lasts all day, especially when paired with waterproof mascara.
Best No-Tug Eyelash Curler
Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler
Recognizable by its red padding, this curler features a wide opening and gentle curve that fits comfortably on all eye shapes. Its slim, lightweight design ensures a pinch-free, tug-free experience, even when curling close to the lash line.
An ELLE editor notes that despite having short lashes and almond-shaped eyes, this curler never pulls or pinches. The bright padding improves visibility, while the professional-quality materials ensure a long-lasting lift.
Best Value Set
This duo includes Tarte’s eyelash curler and a mini Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara, making it a great value. The purple silicone pad applies even pressure for a consistent, fluttery curl.
An ELLE editor admits the grip took some getting used to, but once mastered, the curler delivered beautifully lifted lashes that looked long, soft, and wispy—especially when finished with mascara.
Best for Almond and Hooded Eyes
Tweezerman ProMaster Lash Curler
Designed specifically for almond-shaped eyes, this curler rests comfortably against the lid to lift and lengthen lashes evenly. It’s widely available and easy to find.
Celebrity makeup artist Vincent Oquendo highlights how the rose-gold finish makes lashes easy to see, allowing better control over the curl.
Best for Lengthening
Hourglass Lash Curler
This sleek, lightweight curler is designed to reach even the shortest lashes. For best results, gently press along the lashes from root to tip.
Adam Sidwell praises the subtle curve of the rubber pad, noting that it gently grips individual lashes while offering an artistic, architectural design.
Best for Long-Lasting Curl
Shu Uemura Iconic Eyelash Curler
This legendary curler has earned its reputation for delivering consistent, all-day curl. Loved by celebrity makeup artists and beauty fans alike, it’s known for making eyes look instantly more awake.
An Amazon reviewer describes it as reliable and flawless, calling it a must-have tool that never disappoints.
Best Lightweight Eyelash Curler
Sweed Beauty Eyelash Curler
This lightweight yet durable curler grips each lash effectively, delivering a noticeable lift in a single squeeze.
Gabriella Elio notes that it provides a beautiful curl and lift that lasts throughout the day.
How to Curl Your Lashes Safely
According to Adam Sidwell, the safest way to curl lashes is before applying mascara. Curling after mascara increases the risk of damaging or pulling out lashes.
Gabriella Elio recommends curling as close to the lash base as possible and pressing three times—inner, center, and outer corners—for wide eyes. For smaller eyes, two presses are usually enough.
What to Look for in an Eyelash Curler
When choosing an eyelash curler, focus on three key factors. First, the rubber pad should be cushioned and springy, bouncing back when pressed. Second, the curler should feel comfortable and secure in your hand to prevent slipping. Lastly, a subtle curve in the rubber band makes it easier to reach the lash roots and grip lashes evenly.
Meet the Experts
Adam Sidwell is a professional makeup artist and International Pro Artist for Hourglass Cosmetics.
Gabriella Elio is a makeup artist and the founder of Sweed Beauty.
How We Tested These Eyelash Curlers
For this guide, ELLE.com beauty writer Emma Aerin Becker consulted professional makeup artists, tested multiple eyelash curlers firsthand, and analyzed customer reviews. Each curler was evaluated based on performance, comfort, durability, and user feedback.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
ELLE Beauty combines expert insight, real-world testing, and trusted reviews to recommend products that deliver reliable, proven results.
