How to Use an Eyelash Curler Properly and Safely

Selecting the right eyelash curler is basically like choosing your starter Pokémon — it should not be taken lightly because it’s a decision that will follow you for life. We’ve already settled that stainless steel is the best material you could opt for if your body tolerates it, and the next step is shape — not that of the curler but of your eye.

“Your eye shape plays a crucial role in finding the right eyelash curler,” Zhang explains. While Holm shared that standard curlers from Shu Uemura and Surratt “work well for most eye shapes with an average curve,” Zhang lists four main categories and its specific requirements.

1) Best eyelash curlers for prominent or round eyes

If you fall into this category, Zhang recommends a curler with a more pronounced curve — a.k.a. a higher arc — as it will “help reach all lashes evenly.” Miler agrees, adding that you should look for “a curler with a deep curve to fit the lash line without pinching you.” Per Holm, a perfect example of this would be Kevyn Aucoin’s curler.

2) Best eyelash curlers for hooded or monolid eyes

Miler says “a flatter or wider curler that can reach the lashes without crimping” is ideal for people with hooded eyes and Zhang explains that the reason for opting for “a flatter-curved curler” is “to better access the lash roots without pinching the skin.” Holm recommends a Shiseido curler for this type of eye.

3) Best eyelash curlers for deep-set or almond eyes

Per Zhang, “a moderately curved curler works best to grab all lashes without missing the corners.” Miler agrees: “If you have almond eyes, most curlers will work well on you, but a slightly curved curler is ideal.” Again, per Holm, Shiseido is the best bet here.

4) Best eyelash curlers for small or narrow eyes

“A smaller curler or precision curler helps reach shorter lashes at the inner and outer corners,” Zhang shares. On this front, Holm suggests going for the Surratt Relevée Mini. “Mini or precision curlers are [also] perfect for touching up outer and inner lashes or for monolids where a full curler might not fit perfectly,” she adds.