Let’s be real: there’s nothing more frustrating than curling your lashes to perfection… only for them to fall flat faster than your post-lunch energy. You painstakingly use that little medieval torture device (yes, we’re talking about the lash curler), swipe on some mascara, blink a few times, and bam—back to droopy town.
So, how do the beauty pros keep their lashes lifted all day? Magic? Witchcraft? Some sort of lash-lifting spell?
Not quite. But close. Here are 8 pro-approved, actually-doable tips to help your lashes defy gravity—and stay that way.
1. Start with Clean, Dry Lashes (Sorry, Last Night’s Mascara Doesn’t Count)
Before you curl your lashes, make sure they are clean and dry. If there’s old mascara, oil, or eye cream on your lashes, the curl won’t stay. Dirty or wet lashes are too heavy, and the curler won’t work as well. It’s kind of like trying to curl wet hair—it just falls flat.
Even if you curled them perfectly, any leftover makeup can make the curl drop in just a few minutes. That’s why starting with clean lashes is super important.
Easy tip: Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover to clean your lashes and eyelids. Then let them dry completely before using your lash curler. Also, try not to use oily creams too close to your eyes before curling.
When your lashes are clean and dry, they’re lighter and easier to curl. This helps the curl stay in place longer and gives you an instant glow-up.
2. Invest in a Good Lash Curler (Yes, It Matters)
Not all lash curlers are created equal. Some pinch, some barely do anything, and others make your lashes look like they’ve been attacked by a stapler. A good lash curler will have a smooth clamp, a comfortable grip, and fit your eye shape.
Fan favorites: Shu Uemura, Shiseido, and Surratt are cult classics for a reason.
Bonus tip: Warm up your lash curler with a blast from your hairdryer (just a tiny bit!) before curling. It works like a curling iron—just don’t burn your eyelid. We want curled lashes, not crispy ones.
3. Curl in Stages (Don’t Just Clamp and Pray)
Instead of clamping your lash curler in one spot like you’re trying to flatten a penny, try the “walk-up” method.
First, place the curler at the base of your upper lashes. Next, apply a delicate squeeze. Move slightly upward, squeeze again. Repeat once more at the tips. This creates a natural, long-lasting curl instead of a sharp crimp.
Think of it as giving your lashes a gentle lift, like tiny Pilates for your eyelids.
4. Waterproof Mascara is Your BFF (Even if You’re Not Crying Today)
Here’s the tea: waterproof mascara holds a natural lash curl better than regular mascara. Why? It has a drier formula, which sets the curl and locks it in place like hairspray for your lashes. However, this curl-holding power generally doesn’t translate well to those with eyelash extensions. The ingredients in many waterproof mascaras can break down the adhesive used for extensions, causing them to prematurely fall out.
Worried about removal? Use an oil-based makeup remover and be gentle—no tug-of-war with your eyeballs, please. If you have extensions, it’s crucial to use an extension-safe remover and avoid waterproof formulas altogether. Understanding how to preserve eyelash extensions is key to maintaining their fullness and preventing premature shedding
5. Apply Mascara the Right Way (Technique > Quantity)
You might think loading up 10 coats of mascara equals a better curl, but all you’re doing is weighing your lashes down. Instead, focus on how you apply.
Start at the base, wiggle the wand, and pull upward. This helps lift and separate each lash. One to two coats should do the trick—unless you’re going for full glam, in which case, carry on, drama queen.
Optional pro move: After the mascara dries, gently press the lashes up with your finger to reinforce the curl. No tools are needed—just a little finger magic.
6. Try a Lash Primer (Because Even Lashes Need a Good Base)
If you’ve never used a lash primer, you’re seriously missing out. Think of it like a primer for your face—it preps, protects, and amps up performance.
A good lash primer conditions your lashes, adds volume, and most importantly, helps your mascara hold that curl. Some even come with fibers for added oomph. Who doesn’t love a little extra fluff?
Bonus: Some lash primers also double as overnight treatments, so your lashes can curl and grow. Talk about multitasking.
7. Avoid Heavy Creams Near Your Lashes (No Slippery Situations, Please)
That rich eye cream you love? It’s probably sneaking onto your lashes and sabotaging your curl game. Oils and emollients can break down mascara and flatten your lash curl faster than you can say “Why are my lashes straight again?”
Try applying eye cream slightly below the orbital bone, or switch to a lighter, gel-based formula for day use. Your lashes (and makeup) will thank you.
8. Consider a Lash Lift (The No-Effort Option for the Win)
If you’re really over curling every day, a lash lift might be your dream come true. It’s basically a perm for your lashes. Sounds scary, works like magic.
You lie back, relax, and in about 45 minutes your lashes are lifted to the heavens—and they stay that way for 6 to 8 weeks. Pair it with a tint, and you might not even need mascara.
It’s low-maintenance, high-impact, and the beauty hack for lazy girls who still want to look wide-eyed and fabulous.
Bonus: What Not to Do (Learn from Our Mistakes)
- Don’t curl lashes after mascara. Just… don’t. It can break your lashes, make them stick to the curler, and it’s honestly traumatic.
- Don’t pump your mascara wand. It pushes air in, dries out the formula, and leads to clumpy, crunchy lashes. No bueno.
- Don’t skip lash care. Condition your lashes just like you do your hair. Castor oil, lash serums, or even coconut oil can help keep them strong and healthy.
Final Thoughts: Let Those Lashes Live Their Best Life
Keeping your lashes curled all day isn’t some unattainable beauty myth. With the right tools, a little technique, and a few pro tricks, you can keep those babies lifted from morning coffee to midnight cocktails.
Remember: your lashes deserve love, too. So treat them right, don’t skip the curl, and maybe give them a little pep talk while you’re at it. Because confidence starts with great lashes—and maybe a good brow day.
