This Underrated Makeup Tool Is the Secret to Longer, Lifted Lashes
Turns out, the best eyelash curlers are the key to eye-opening lashes, and makeup artists swear by them.
When it comes to achieving full, fluttery lashes, most of us will instinctively reach for one of the best mascaras to help achieve length, curl and volume. Yet if you ask a professional makeup artist, they’ll tell you that the real secret to standout lashes isn’t just about choosing the right mascara for you, but it’s the tools you use first. Of course, they’re talking about an eyelash curler.
I'll admit, eyelash curlers can look a little intimidating if you've never used one before. As someone naturally very clumsy, the idea of bringing a metal contraption that close to my eye doesn't really appeal. But once you get the hang of them, they can make a surprisingly big difference to how your lashes look, even before you swipe on mascara.
What Is an Eyelash Curler?
“An eyelash curler is a tool that's amazing for giving your lashes an instant lift. It will enhance all eye makeup looks, even if you aren’t wearing any eye makeup at all,” explains celebrity makeup artist Brooke Simons. And as this year’s biggest makeup trends continue to shine a spotlight on fresh, pared-back beauty, there’s no better time to invest in one, particularly if you’re tempted by the cool no-mascara makeup looks that have been taking centre stage.
Although many people forgo using one entirely, the best eyelash curlers can maximise the effects of any tubing mascara, volumising mascara or brown mascara, as well as open up the eyes with no product required. And if you do choose to layer on your favourite mascara on top? You’ll only maximise those wide-eyed results.
How We Tested the Best Eyelash Curlers
With over a decade of experience working in the beauty industry, I’ve tried and tested multiple eyelash curlers over the years and have also called on fellow editors, the wider Who What Wear UK team, and makeup artist experts to help compile this list of truly brilliant eyelash curlers. From cult tools to more affordable options, consider this a comprehensive guide to the very best.
Plus, keep scrolling to find out everything there is to know about using an eyelash curler directly from the experts.
Best Eyelash Curlers
- Best Overall Eyelash Curler: Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler (£22)
- Best Eyelash Curler Design: Hourglass Lash Curler (£32)
- Best for Holding a Curl: MAC Full Lash Curler (£17)
- Best for Short Lashes: NARS Eyelash Curler (£18)
- Best Affordable Eyelash Curler: e.l.f Pro Eyelash Curler (£6)
1. Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler
Material: Stainless steel frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 0
Pros
- Red pad makes it easy to see lashes
- Feels high-quality
Cons
- Doesn't come with refill pads and can't be purchased separately
Take a look inside any makeup artist or beauty editor's makeup bag, and it's this pair of iconic eyelash curlers that you'll likely find inside. Designed to grasp every single lash, it's perfectly shaped to curl lashes without any irritation, with the thick, rounded silicone pads helping to lock that definition in place. In fact, it's a bestseller for that very reason. I particularly like how controlled the curl feels—you can get right to the base of the lashes and gently squeeze without worrying about creating an awkward crimp. And you can use it easily upside down to curl those bottom lashes too.
2. Hourglass Lash Curler
Material: Metal frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 1
Eyelash curlers aren't the most exciting tools to look at, but this one is worthy of display. The sculptural design feels every bit as luxurious as you'd expect from Hourglass, but thankfully it isn't all style over substance. It has been expertly designed to suit all eye shapes, with a curved shape that makes it easy to get close to the lash line without pinching the skin. I find it particularly good at creating that rounded, lifted curl rather than a sharp bend, which makes lashes look longer and more open. And the curl it gives? Next level.
Pros
- It's a thing of beauty!
- Opens really wide for ease of use
Cons
- A pricier option
3. MAC Full Lash Curler
Material: Stainless steel frame, soft rubber pads
Number of refill pads: 1
If there's anyone you can trust with a makeup tool, it's MAC. So consider this your new makeup-bag staple—simple, effective, hard-working and exactly what I want from an eyelash curler. The shape makes it easy to position close to the lash line, while the soft pad gives enough pressure to create a noticeable lift without feeling like you're tugging at your lashes. I find it particularly useful on days when my lashes are looking a little flat, as a few gentle squeezes instantly make my eyes look more open and awake. It curls even the straightest of lashes for beautifully fluttery results, and the effect works brilliantly underneath mascara.
Pros
- Curls even the straightest lashes
- Lightweight
Cons
- Bit tricky to see on dark lashes
4. Nars Eyelash Curler
Material: Matte-black metal frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 1
Pros
- Works well on all lash textures and lengths
- Ultra-light
Cons
- Some might prefer a weighter tool
This Nars eyelash curler is the perfect match for straight, short lashes, as the sturdy design keeps every lash in its place without any creasing. I particularly like that you can get close to the roots without having to clamp down too hard, so the curl looks lifted rather than sharply bent. For shorter lashes, that extra precision makes a real difference, as it's easy for some curlers to miss those tiny lashes at the inner and outer corners. (Trust me, as someone lacking in the lash department, I know this all too well.) The shape also feels reassuringly sturdy in your hand, so there's no chance of slipping while using it.
5. Shiseido Eyelash Curler
Material: Steel frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 1
This beloved eyelash curler doesn't "bend and snap" (every day requires a Legally Blonde reference), but it certainly curls and lifts. There's a reason this one has such an army of fans: it has a clever curved shape that sits comfortably against the eye and makes it easy to catch lashes from corner to corner. The pad gives just the right amount of cushioning too, so you can apply a little pressure at the roots and hold for a few seconds before releasing. It's also forgiving if you're not particularly experienced with eyelash curlers, which makes it a great everyday option.
Pros
- Every makeup artist swears by it
- Never pinches or pulls
Cons
- It goes in and out of stock fast
6. Dior Backstage Eyelash Curler
Number of refill pads: 1
Talk about sleek. The handle game is strong on this one, and it makes a difference in how easy it is to use and gently pinch lashes. Rather than feeling fiddly or awkward to manoeuvre, it sits comfortably between your fingers, giving you plenty of control as you work your way across the lash line. It's a must for longer lashes that are seeking a bold curl, particularly if you love that lifted, almost fanned-out effect. The sleek Dior Backstage design is, of course, a bonus—it feels like a proper luxury addition to your makeup bag.
Pros
- Comfortable handle
- Looks chic
Cons
- Not the best for shorter lashes
7. e.l.f. Cosmetics Pro Eyelash Curler
Material: Metal frame, rubber pads
Number of refill pads: 1
For just £6, e.l.f's Pro Eyelash Curler does a great job of doing exactly what it says on the tin. It's one of those beauty tools that proves you really don't need to spend a fortune to get a good result. The handle is ergonomically shaped, which gives you a comfortable grip and makes it easier to control how much pressure you're applying, and the edges fit seamlessly around your eyes so you can get close to the lash line. At £6, there's very little to complain about—it's an easy recommendation for beginners or anyone who wants a reliable, affordable option.
Pros
- Really affordable
- Lifts and curls
Cons
- Doesn't feel as luxe as more expensive options (understandably)
8. Chanel Le Recourbe Cils De Chanel
Material: Metal frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 2
Oh, hello. That's what you'll be saying to your new eyelashes when they come up to greet you after you've used this. This curler is slightly wider to make sure that all eye shapes and sizes are catered to, which means you can capture more lashes in one go rather than repeatedly repositioning the tool. One squeeze gives a pretty, natural lift, while a little more pressure creates the kind of curl that really makes mascara pop. It's also one of those tools that feels lovely to have in your makeup bag, with that unmistakable Chanel finish. You'll be wondering why you don't curl your eyelashes as often as you could when you try this.
Pros
- Great for big eyes and long lashes
- Feels heavy and luxurious
Cons
- It's expensive
9. Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler
Material: Stainless steel frame, silicone pads
Number of refill pads: 3
Pros
- Comes with loads of replacement pads
- Great all-rounder
Cons
- Not much—it's good!
With curved edges, slim handles and silicone pads, this curler will make your lashes feel right at home—and it's the eyelash curler of choice for Simons. The shape makes it easy to get close to the lash line, while the silicone pad provides enough cushioning to make curling feel comfortable rather than like a wrestling match with your own eyelashes. The slim handles are another small but important detail, especially if you prefer a little more precision when applying pressure. You'll probably find yourself skipping the mascara with this one—or at least using considerably less of it.
How Do You Use Eyelash Curlers?
Though they might look tricky to get the hang of, Simons assures me that with practice, eyelash curlers are actually really easy to use. First up, she recommends making sure that your lashes are clean and that the protective pad on the eyelash curler is secure. “Place your lashes in between the top and bottom of the clamp, placing it near the root of your lashes, then gently squeeze it for a few seconds and release,” says Simons. And make sure not to go too close to the skin of your eyelid. “It’s very thin and sensitive, and if you pinch it then, wow, it hurts!”
Remove the curler to see the results, then, if you want some extra curl, simply repeat the process. Simons explains that keeping the curler close to the lash line will add lift, but if you want a more rounded curl, then you should repeat the process closer to the tips of your lashes. “For a longer-lasting curl, I’d then apply mascara, and if your lashes are extremely straight, I would recommend using a waterproof mascara to really lock in the shape,” she advises.
Do You Use Eyelash Curlers Before or After Mascara?
This is a simple answer—eyelash curlers should be used before mascara. “I really wouldn’t advise using mascara before curling your lashes, as the lashes may stick to the [tool] and you risk pulling them out,” says Simons. Ouch.
What Is the Healthiest Way to Curl Your Eyelashes?
There is some risk of damaging your lashes if you’re not using an eyelash curler correctly, and Simons shares a 'horror story' from one of her clients who used an eyelash curler and didn’t realise that the protective pad had fallen out. “She realised what had happened when she released the clamp and all her eyelashes fell to the floor,” says Simons. To prevent incidents like this from occurring, she stresses the importance of making sure that a protective pad is in place before you get started and making sure that you’re very careful when clamping down. “Be really careful as the roots of the lashes are very sensitive, so try not to pull as you are clamping down,” she explains.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
