How To Keep Your Lashes Curled: 10 Pro Tips

A well-shaped lash curl gives structure to the eye area and reduces the need for heavy makeup. That’s why many of us want to master the technique for lifting the lashes so they stay this way throughout the day. This might seem challenging, especially for anyone whose lashes grow straight and lose shape easily. Getting lasting lift comes down to how you treat your lashes and if you apply the correct curling technique. A little consistency and the right approach can mean longer lasting curl and healthier lashes, too.

10 Working Ways to Achieve Those Well Curled Lashes

1. Always Begin With Clean Lashes

Curling works best on lashes with no leftover product. Leftover makeup and natural sebum add weight and kill the curl. Even a small amount of residue can cause your lashes to drop quickly.

Cleanse your lashes with a mild, oil free cleanser. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry. Dry lashes are much easier to shape and way less likely to lose curl.

2. Work with Your Natural Lash Pattern

The direction, thickness and natural curve of your lashes all affect the end result. If your lashes grow straight out or point downward, you'll need more precise curling. A strong natural curl just needs a little shaping. Too much pressure can lead to an awkward kink.

Once you understand your lash structure, it's easier to adjust your curling technique. Fine lashes do better with light pressure and thin coats of lash product. Thicker lashes respond better to slower, more controlled pressure to really shape them into a nice curve instead of a harsh bend.

3. Learn How to Use a Lash Curler the Right Way

A good curler gives even pressure and won't strain individual lashes. Place it as close to the roots as you can (without pinching your skin), then apply gentle, steady pressure.

For a natural look, curl in sections: start at the base, hold a few seconds, shift the curler up a bit, and repeat with softer pressure each time. This gradual approach gives a smooth bend and helps the curl stay up for a while.

Photo by Anastasia Kazakova on freepik

4. Be Careful With Heat

Adding warmth can help stubborn lashes hold shape, but it's easy to go too far. Heated lash curlers or a gently warmed traditional curler can do the trick when lashes resist curling.

Always check the temperature with your hand before using it in your eye area. Too much heat can damage your lashes. The goal is to set the curl, not do the harm.

5. Use Mascara That Supports Curl 

What you put on after curling is just as important. Heavy mascaras pull lashes down and kill the lift, especially on fine or straight lashes.

Stick to lightweight formulas and apply right after curling. Apply in thin, even coats, letting each set before adding more. Another trick is to lift the wand upward from the base to support the curl.

6. Pick Mascara Based on Your Lash Type

Every mascara handles curl differently and not every formula is a fit for every lash type. Here’s a chart to help you find the mascara types suitable for your lashes.

You should balance what works for you with how your lashes handle makeup. Waterproof mascara is strong, but use it carefully to avoid thinning your lashes over time.

7. Extend the Curl with Controlled Layering

Layering products in the correct order can make a difference. Here’s a trick: apply one light coat of mascara, let it partially dry, then make a very gentle re-curl again before applying your final layer.

This keeps the curl set but still flexible. Do not try to curl your lashes once the mascara has fully dried - that's how you end up with lash breakage.

8. Be Consistent with Lash Care Routine

Stronger lashes hold their shape better. Conditioning every day keeps them springy and less likely to break.

Use lash serums that focus on moisture and support proteins. Steady care improves how lashes respond to curling and helps them bounce back from daily styling.

9. Avoid Habits that Flatten Lashes

The routine you do every day can undo all your lash curling work. Rubbing your eyes, sleeping face down, applying heavy creams too close to your lashes - all of these cause lashes to lose shape.

To avoid this, apply eye products carefully, remove makeup gently, and minimize friction around the eyes. It especially matters if your lashes are naturally fine or fragile.

10. Consider Professional Lash Treatment

If your curls never seem to last, a professional lash lift treatment provides a longer-lasting shape by reshaping lashes at the root. That means way less time spent curling and layering mascara each morning. A well-chosen, efficient treatment supports a lifted appearance while minimizing daily mechanical stress on lashes.

At NULASTIN, we offer dermatologically tested products that support the follicle and help preserve curl retention. Our Lash Follicule Fortifying Serum has no sulfates, parabens, phthalates or mineral oil in its formula. Its biomimetic Elastaplex® Technology reinforces elastin at the follicle, helping reduce visible shedding and promoting fuller looking lashes that retain their curl over time.

The Lash Word 

Real curl retention depends on several factors, including consistent care and curling technique suited to your lash type. Your daily habits, such as lash cleansing, proper mascara application and avoiding mechanical stress, affect how long your lashes hold their shape. To support long term results, consider clinically tested, premium products from NULASTIN to help maintain an environment that keeps lashes lifted and looking fuller.