The right eyelash curler and why the curve is everything.

A good eyelash curler lifts your lashes from the root without crimping or pinching. What matters isn’t the brand but whether its curve fits your eyelid.

Lash curler lifting the upper lashes at the base, eye looking up

Eyelash curlers we recommend

1Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

The classic

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

The curler you’ll find in many make-up artists’ kits. Its curve is cut so that it gets close to the lash line on most European eye shapes without trapping the lid. A replacement pad is included, according to the manufacturer.

What we like

  • Fits a great many eye shapes
  • Even pressure across the full width
  • Replacement pad included

Keep in mind

  • Pricier than high-street models
2Shiseido Eyelash Curler

For wider eyelids

Shiseido Eyelash Curler

A slightly flatter, wider curve than the Shu Uemura. That means it catches the outer lashes well too – comfortable for wide or slightly almond-shaped eyes. The pad is soft and replaceable.

What we like

  • Catches the outer lashes too
  • Soft pad

Keep in mind

  • Can press at the sides on very round eyes
3Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler

For deep-set eyes

Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler

A professional curler with a wide opening that’s easy to bring right up to the lash line. A good choice when other curlers can’t get close enough to the roots on deep-set or hooded eyes.

What we like

  • Gets close to the roots
  • Very solidly made

Keep in mind

  • Not stocked everywhere
4Tweezerman Eyelash Curler

Sturdy for every day

Tweezerman Eyelash Curler

Tweezerman is known for tweezers, and its eyelash curler is just as solidly built. The handles sit securely in your hand and the pressure is easy to control. A dependable everyday tool without frills.

What we like

  • Sturdy mechanism
  • Easy-to-control handles

Keep in mind

  • Curve better suited to average eye shapes
5Zwilling Eyelash Curler

Durable stainless steel

Zwilling Eyelash Curler

From the Solingen manufacturer known for scissors and manicure tools. Well made, with a wide opening that also sits well on larger eyes.

What we like

  • Solid build quality
  • Wide opening

Keep in mind

  • A little heavier in the hand
6Kiko Milano Eyelash Curler

Good value

Kiko Milano Eyelash Curler

Light, easy to use and much cheaper than the professional models. A good choice for occasional curling – if you curl every day, you’ll notice the softer mechanism.

What we like

  • Affordable
  • Light and straightforward

Keep in mind

  • Mechanism less precise than pro curlers
7Eylure Eyelash Curler

For short lashes

Eylure Eyelash Curler

Narrow and well curved, so even short lashes get caught between the frame and the pad. Helpful when larger curlers simply miss the short hairs.

What we like

  • Catches short lashes too
  • Compact

Keep in mind

  • Wide eyes need two goes
8Revlon Eyelash Curler

Simple and affordable

Revlon Eyelash Curler

Classic shape, rubberised handles, solid for the price. A good starter curler if you first want to find out whether you like curled lashes.

What we like

  • Affordable starter
  • Non-slip handles

Keep in mind

  • Pad wears out faster

What we look for as professionals

Curve
The frame has to match the curve of your eyelid. If it’s too flat, it pinches at the sides; if it’s too round, the outer lashes are left out. Hold the open curler in front of your eye: the frame should follow your lash line.
Pad
The rubber or silicone pad protects your lashes. If it has a groove or has gone hard, it crimps the lashes instead of curling them. Replacement pads should be available.
Opening
A wide opening is easier to bring up to the roots, especially with hooded or deep-set eyes.
Material
Metal curlers with a spring mechanism are durable and precise. Plastic curlers are lighter but often apply less even pressure.
Heated curlers
Electric models shape with warmth rather than pressure. For some people the curl lasts longer, but it doesn’t replace the right curve – and they should never get too hot against your skin.

You’ll find the right mascara for after curling in our mascara top picks. If you want lasting curl without reaching for the curler every morning, our guide to lash lifting offers an alternative.

Frequently asked questions

Which eyelash curler is best?

The one whose curve fits your eye. The Shu Uemura suits a particularly wide range of eye shapes, which is why it’s our classic. With wider eyelids, the Shiseido is often more comfortable.

Does an eyelash curler damage your lashes?

Not if you use it properly. Problems come from hard or torn pads, curling over mascara and pulling while the curler is closed.

How often should I replace the pad?

As soon as it has a groove or feels hard – with daily use, usually after a few months.

Curler or mascara first?

Curler first, then mascara. If you want to curl again afterwards, wait until the mascara is completely dry and press only gently.