Are Eyelash Curlers Bad For Your Eyelashes?
Eyelash curlers can be scary to a first-time user, but when used properly and with minimal pressure, these little beauty tools are not bad for your eyelashes. In fact, they can be a great way to add a more dramatic curve to your lashes and make them appear thicker and longer. However, if used incorrectly or with too much pressure, lash curlers can cause lash breakage and may even damage your lashes. This is why it is important to use a good quality curler and follow the correct technique to prevent eyelash damage.
The most common mistake that people make when using an eyelash curler is applying too much pressure to the lashes. You should only press down gently and squeeze the curler a few times, not like you are crushing your lashes. Squeezing too hard can not only break the lashes, but also pull out the entire eyelash. You should also be careful not to squeeze the curler too quickly as this can create a crimp rather than a curl.
You should also be sure to clean your eyelash curler regularly to prevent it from accumulating bacteria. Just as with your hair, it is a good idea to wipe your eyelash curler down with an antiseptic or alcohol wipe to ensure that it is free of any dirt and debris that may be stuck on the rubber cushion.
Another common mistake that people make when using an eyelash curler is not changing the pad on a regular basis. It is recommended to change the pad on a daily basis or every six months with frequent use, as it can develop a ridge from overuse and become less effective at curling your lashes.
Applying mascara before using an eyelash curler can also be a big no-no, as it can make your lashes stick to the tool and be more likely to be pulled out or broken when you try to remove the curler. Instead, you should only apply mascara after curling to hold in the shape that you created. Giglio recommends Stila’s HUGE Extreme Lash Mascara, $23, which has a lightweight formula that won’t weigh down the curl that you achieved with your eyelash curler.
Another mistake that people often make when using an eyelash curler is not heating it before use. Heated lash curlers can help lock in the curl and make it last all day long. It is also a good idea to replace the pad on a daily basis or every few months with a new one, as old ones can lose their density and not be as effective at curling your lashes. You can also add heat to the curler by holding a blowdryer close to it for a few seconds, as this will warm it up and help to give it a better curl. This is especially helpful if you have a difficult time getting your eyelashes to curl.