A great eyelash curler can take even the shrimpiest lashes from mid to mega. But if your curl doesn't last more than an hour or so, you might consider a more high-tech tool: the heated eyelash curler.
As you might have already considered, it's important to use with caution: “Human skin can sustain first-degree burns at 118 degrees Fahrenheit and second-degree burns at 131 degrees. Since the skin of the eyelids is especially thin, it will damage easier and at lower temperatures,” a clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Natasha Herz, says in a statement.
Still, these tools don't get very hot (think warm, not scorching) and have other safety features built in. If you're looking into trying the beauty tool, find Bazaar editors' picks for the eight best heated eyelash curlers ahead—plus, tips on how to use it.
Shop the Best Heated Eyelash Curlers
Best All-Around Heated Eyelash Curler
Grande Cosmetics Grande Lash-Lift Heated Lash CurlerRead more
Pros
- Nonstick silicone bristles
Cons
- AAA battery not included
Reddit user Kitbox “swears by” this heated curler, which is essentially a mini comb with slick silicone bristles. The pen-like size is also really convenient to throw in a makeup bag or purse.
Features: battery lasts approximately 21 uses
Customer review:
"This is the makeup tool that was missing from my bag. After years of fighting with traditional crimp-style lash curlers. Battling to avoid pinching my eyelids and often loosing, this is the answer. I prefer to use this before I apply mascara. That way the mascara won't heat up and clump on the lash." —J. Monteiro
Pros
- Comes with battery
Cons
- Some reviewers said the curler doesn't get warm enough
Two grooming essentials is better than one! This set includes a heated curler with a temperature indicator to let you know it's ready, plus a set of LED-powered tweezers so you can see every little hair.
Features: temperature indicator, LED tweezers, batteries included
Customer Review:
"I didn’t know what to expect! This works! Just a few seconds of running the cutler up and they ur lashes! I have sensitive eyes... and skin and didn’t want to wear mascara, anymore. I still have to put a thin coat of mascara because my lashes are too light (and tinting didn’t work)... but, so much better. I don’t like the traditional eyelash curlers... too Pinchy! The only downside...been a couple months and had to replace battery already." —Wendy
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Best All-Around Heated Eyelash Curler
Grande Cosmetics Grande Lash-Lift Heated Lash Curler
Pros
- Rechargeable
Cons
Since this eyelash curler is rechargeable, you'll never have to worry about keeping a pack of batteries around. It's also designed with a grooved safety slot and multiple heat settings to prevent your lid from getting accidentally singed.
Features: rechargeable
Customer review:
"This is the best heated eyelash curler I've ever used—and I have used several. It heats up fast and is super easy to use as well as clean. I could not be happier with my purchase." —Tammy M.
| How to use: | Press and hold the oval button on the front of the device for two seconds to power it on. After waiting 30 seconds for the device to heat up, Choose either the low or high temperature setting., |
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Best Heated Eyelash Curler for Beginners
TouchBeauty Professional Heated Eyelash Curler
Pros
- Ergonomic
Cons
- Doesn't include required battery
Similar to the look of a manual curler, this heated one from TouchBeauty uses a set of curved curler pads to lift lashes. It also features a temperature-sensing pad that changes color to indicate when it's ready to use.
Features: smart temperature sensor
Customer review:
"Love how easy this was to use. The curler heated up quickly. It was so simple to place my lashes in and I held for a few seconds. Worked so much better than my regular eyelash curler." —MissyRN
| How to use: | Do not use the heating eyelash curler when wearing contact lenses. All tool to warm up, place lashes between silicone pads, and gently squeeze. |
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Pros
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Doesn't include batteries
The cushy silicone pad on this heated curler changes color to indicate it's ready to use—just add two AAA batteries to power it up. And since it fits nicely in your purse for quick lash touch-ups while on-the-go, it's perfect for moments when applying a pair of falsies just isn't in the cards.
Features: smart temperature sensor
Customer Review:
"This is the only eyelash curler that works on my short, straight lashes. The heat is gentle but sets the curl like nothing else. I've tried all of the pricey brands - this wins!" —GM
| How to use: | Push and hold green lever. When the silicone pad turns clear, it's ready to use. Set lashes in place for 10-15 seconds. |
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Best Travel-Friendly Eyelash Curler
Conair True Glow by Conair Mini Heated Eyelash Curler
Cons
- Doesn't include required battery
If you love your Conair curler for your hair, think of this like a mini version for your lashes. All this mini-heated curler needs is a AAA battery to power it up.
Features: 1 year warranty
Customer review:
"I haven’t used an eyelash curler in about 20 years. I used to have one of those guillotine type torture devices that leave a crimp in your eyelashes and often pluck a few out. Then I saw this heated thing. Like a tiny curling iron for your eyelashes? Not exactly. It turns out that all you do is sweep it against your eyelashes just like you would if you were applying mascara. It works great and quickly (let it heat up first), does not pull out my eyelashes, and leaves a very natural curl. I wish I had discovered this thing 10 years ago!" —tucker
| How to use: | Start near the base of your upper lashes, hold for eight to 10 seconds; Repeat a needed to customize your look; Finish your look with a coat of your favorite mascara. |
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Pros
- Battery included
Cons
Here's a coveted curler from Blinc that uses a heated comb to separate and curl lashes starting at the root, and is powered by a single AAA battery. And since it has a built-in comb applicator, it can curl even the shortest of lashes.
Features: protective guard
Customer review:
"Really a great eyelash curler. This is my second one and I've been using them for years. Works well before or after mascara. If using after mascara, be sure to clean off the make up build up every once in a while so the heat can get through." —Pompote
| How to use: | Curl upwards, keeping the comb pressed against lashes for five seconds. |
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Pros
- Rechargable
- Can be used with mascara
Cons
Over 4,400 Amazon customers swear by this tool trio that includes a lash comb and wand—which features three heating options—to lengthen and separate your lashes.
Features: 4 temperature settings, rechargeable
Customer review:
"I have never been able to curl my lashes, ever. This product is a game changer, it works! It has a sleek look, a lash comb and cleaning brush. So worth the money. Works right out of the box and yes, the cord is included. Great product." —Lisa B.
| How to use: | Apply mascara, curl lashes, curl lashes, add mascara again to shape. |
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Pros
- Includes four temperature settings
Cons
This heated curler contains an LCD temperature display with four temperature settings and includes a nickel-chromium rod to distribute heat evenly on your lashes. As an added bonus, the tool can be used on falsies, extensions, and even your brows for up to 75 minutes continuously.
Features: rechargeable, LCD display
| How to use: | When the power is fully charged, press the on/off button to start the device. Pressing the button once will take you to the first heating mode that sets the temperature to 149ºF/65ºC. Two presses sets the temperature to 167ºF/75ºC. Three presses sets the temperature to 185ºF/85ºC. Four presses sets the temperature to 203ºF/95ºC. When you press the button a fifth time, the curler will power off. |
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Meet the Experts
- Natasha Herz, M.D., is the clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
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Do heated eyelash curlers really work?
Using one of the best-heated curlers is an easy and effective way to add length and volume with or without the help of mascara, extensions, or falsies. While some may feature a set of silicone pads, the gentle heat of the device does the heavy lifting when it comes to curling your eyelashes.
Which type of heated eyelash curler is best?
The best kind of heated eyelash curler is one that you feel comfortable using. There are a number of different curler design options on the market—including wands and those with dual heated pads—which is why we recommend paying attention to how each tool's unique features correspond with your needs before buying one.
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Does heating your eyelashes damage them?
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, using too much heat around the eye can ultimately damage your lashes and cause a fallout. When used in moderation and at lower temperature settings, heated curlers can be a helpful tool in enhancing eye makeup looks and maximizing the impact of your mascara.
Looking for more recommendations for amazing lashes?
- What Is a Lash Lift? Everything to Know Before Booking
- 15 Eyelash Growth Serums, Recommended by Eye Doctors
- The 10 Best Drugstore Mascaras for Length, Volume, and Curl
- The 23 Best Mascaras of All Time
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Tiffany Dodson
Associate Beauty Commerce Editor
Tiffany Dodson Davis is the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar. Don't ask her to choose a favorite fragrance—it's like picking a favorite child. As one of the brand's resident shopping experts, she specializes in trend forecasting, testing the latest beauty and wellness launches, and curating bookmark-worthy commerce guides. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in SELF Magazine, Bustle, and Teen Vogue. She's also been tapped as a commerce and beauty expert for The Business of Fashion, NPR’s Life Kit podcast, and more.
