Eyelash curler before or after mascara? A simple guide
Use a manual eyelash curler before mascara, on clean, dry lashes. If you have been leaving curling until the end of your makeup routine, changing the order is a useful place to start.
This guide covers a traditional squeeze-style curler for natural upper lashes, including the Natural Look Eye Lash Curler. Heated tools have their own instructions, so do not apply the same method to every device.

Why curl before mascara?
Mascara can leave lashes sticking to the curler and make the tool harder to clean. Curling coated lashes also risks breakage. Keep the order simple: prepare your lashes, curl, then apply mascara if you want it.
Already wearing mascara? Do not clamp over it for a quick touch-up. Remove the eye makeup gently with a suitable remover and allow your lashes to dry before starting again.
Before you begin
- Choose a well-lit spot and a mirror so you can see where the curler sits.
- Check that the pad is present, seated properly and in good condition. Do not use a damaged curler or one with a split or missing pad.
- Make sure both the tool and your lashes are clean and dry.
- Use the curler at room temperature. Do not improvise by warming a manual tool with a hairdryer.
How to use the Natural Look Eye Lash Curler
Natural Look directs users to look down and work from the lash base towards the tips with approximately three squeezes. Take your time rather than increasing pressure.
- Position first. Open the curler and place your upper lashes over the pad, near their base. Check that no eyelid skin is caught before gently closing it.
- Release before moving. Open the tool fully, move it a little further along the lashes, then gently squeeze again. Never drag it along lashes while clamped shut.
- Work towards the tips. Repeat the release-and-reposition movement for the final gentle squeeze. Open the curler before taking it away.
- Finish with mascara if desired. Once curling is complete, apply your mascara according to its directions.
If the curler pinches or pulls, release it and stop. Do not force the corners into place or keep squeezing harder to catch a missed lash.
Choosing and caring for your tool
The Natural Look Eye Lash Curler has a chrome-plated finish and an edge-free rubber pad. Comfort still matters: the tool should let you position your lashes without trapping skin.
For this model, Natural Look specifies wiping after each use with Dispel Disinfectant and following the relevant hygiene protocol. Follow the disinfectant label too, and keep cleaning products away from your eyes. Do not soak or immerse this curler in liquid. Check the instructions for your own model rather than assuming every metal curler can be washed the same way.
Quick questions
Do I need mascara after curling?
No. You can leave your lashes as they are if you prefer a simple finish.
Should I squeeze harder if the curl drops?
No. Start by checking that your lashes are dry, the pad is sound and your placement is comfortable. Repeated hard clamping is not the answer.
Is this the same as a lash lift?
No. This is a manual styling step, not a chemical lash-lifting treatment. If you have extensions or a recent lash treatment, follow your technician’s aftercare rather than using this natural-lash routine over it.
The takeaway: clean, dry lashes first; gentle curling second; mascara last. A comfortable fit and opening the curler fully between movements matter more than a firm squeeze.