An eyelash curler is a hand-operated mechanical device for curling eyelashes for cosmetic purposes. Usually only the upper eyelashes are curled. Before using, the device can be heated for a short time with a hair dryer, but not to the extent to burn the delicate skin above the eyes. Self-heating, battery-operated units are available.
The first known patent for the eyelash curler states that it was filed by Charles Stickel and William McDonell from Rochester, New York. A further review of the 1931 Eyelash Curler patent shows that it was invented by William McDonell.
William Beldue and his Kurlash Company held patents in Canada, the United States and Great Britain for the eyelash curler and improvements to it.
Eyelash curlers are usually made of metal, and often have rubber pads where the curlers make contact with the lashes. Manufacturers include ForteBellezza,Shiseido and Shu Uemura.
There are two ways of using an eyelash curler. It can be either used after warming up with a hair dryer or without warming. To get the best results, it is recommended to use it after warming up with a hair dryer because it lasts longer. When using heated eyelash curlers, it is very important to be cautious of the temperature the curler is heated to. To avoid the risk of burning the eyelid with the hot metal curlers, many companies have introduced plastic based curlers. Some companies are looking into introducing self-heated curlers to control the temperature and completely eliminate the risk of a burn.
To begin, warm up the curler and then curl the eyelashes for 10 to 15 seconds. Continue curling them until you have the desired shape. Next, apply more coats of mascara and curl the eyelashes once more for the final look. Repeat the application of mascara and curling of the lashes until the desired length reached. Due to varying eyelash length, some users might have to apply mascara and curl the eyelashes more times.
It is a good makeup kit tool because it gives the illusion of bigger and brighter eyes and helps lengthen the eyelashes. When it is applied using different tactics such going heavier on the outer corner eyelashes, it gives a different and well-defined shape to the eyes. It is easy to use without professional training and is not very expensive to purchase. Additionally, it is not a very big tool, so it can be comfortably placed in the makeup bag.