Not all eyelash curlers were created equal, but it's more a matter of how the curler fits one's eye shape than about quality of the tool itself. My first curler was the legendary Shu Uemura and when I started using it after a lifetime of resistance it was a revelation. Eventually, though, I realized that other curlers might be better for my eye shape (round and sunken) and lashline (very full and requires more curl in the outer corner.
My two favorite curlers right now are the Le Metier de Beaute ($18, at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and select Nordstrom locations) and this one from Kevyn Aucoin. I use them interchangeably and can't feel any difference in performance, thought it seems the rubber pad on the Kevyn Aucoin is firmer and lasts longer before it needs the replacement pad that comes in the box.
Which brings us to my one big issue with eyelash curlers in general (not just the Kevyn Aucoin). I would have been happy to pay significantly more for a sturdy well-made curler that is supposed to last for years upon years (just like makeup brushes, a pair of good tweezers or a crystal nail file). I wouldn't mind buying rubber pad replacements regularly had they been available for said mega-curler. However, even the best companies only offer these flimsyish contraptions that come with one set of extra pads and tend to lose their springiness or get mangled pretty easily. Still, even with their tendency to not last a lifetime, most curlers still outlive their pads by a couple of years, so replacing them is way too wasteful.
I do love the Kevyn Aucoin lash curler and have every intention to keep one in my possession in rotation with the LMdB. It's a great tool and a good value for the money.
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler ($20) is available from Bergdorf Goodman (in store only), Barneys, beauty.com and dermstore.com.
I use a Japonesque lash curler. It works really well for me, but I have a very different eye shape from you. They replace the pads for free. All you have to do is call them and they will send you two at a time.
ReplyDelete~ Thanks for your post..I love all articles about Eyelashes, mascara, eyes as I have really straight lashes and when properly curled makes my eyes look Hugh.
ReplyDeleteMy new Favorite and the best eyelash curler I have ever found is the Hot Lashes eyelash curler, makeup Artist kit.
I read the reviews on Amazon and was impressed. They have a site of the same name Hot Lashes. My friends and family love this curler..Exactly like the Shu Uemura curler with a 24k gold plated curler and this small heater base. Keeps my lashes curling till the next day.HTH~
Hi Gaia, please can you recommend a curler for round eyes with a descending lashline? will the Shu Uemura one be good for his eye shape you think? thanks!!
ReplyDeleteI mailordered the Le Metier curler from Neiman Marcus. With 3 uses the pad developed a split! Talk about a softer pad!It comes with a replacement pad, but this is ridiculous. I emailed both Neiman Marcus and Le Metier about it.
ReplyDeleteLike you, my eyes are round, and deep set and my lashes are stick straight and point down. They need a lot of curl!
ReplyDeleteI am just about ready to give up my Shu because I'm done fighting with it. It doesn't match the shape of my eye and I have to be really careful not to pinch my lids. Also, I have to curl for so long that it often leaves a crimp instead of a curl.
Thanks for providing some alternatives!