Ask ten beauty lovers what their must-have lash tool is, and you'll likely get a split answer: some swear by the classic metal curler they've used for years, while others won't leave the house without their heated version. Both tools can deliver a beautiful curl — but they work in very different ways, and picking the right one for your lash type and routine can make a real difference in how your lashes look (and how long that curl actually lasts).
How Metal Eyelash Curlers Work
Metal curlers are the original lash tool, and for good reason — they're simple, affordable, and effective. A metal curler uses spring-loaded pressure to physically bend the lash at the base, creating an instant curl. Our Classic Metal Eyelash Curler, available in silver, gold, black, and colored finishes, is a reliable everyday option that gives you full control over exactly where and how much curl you apply.
Pros of metal curlers:
- Precise, customizable curl placement
- No batteries or charging required
- Budget-friendly and long-lasting
- Great for a quick, natural everyday curl
Cons of metal curlers:
- Curl tends to relax or fall by midday, especially on straight, resistant lashes
- Risk of pinching if not aligned correctly
- Requires some technique to avoid a crimped, unnatural look
How Heated Eyelash Curlers Work
Heated curlers use gentle, controlled warmth to reshape the lash rather than relying on mechanical pressure alone. Heat allows the curl to "set" more like a curling iron sets a hairstyle, which is why heated curls tend to last significantly longer — often all day — without needing a touch-up.
Our lineup includes several heated options depending on your preferred style: the Curlashes™ Heat Curler offers 3 curling modes for a customizable lift, the Rechargeable Heated Lash Curler uses nano thermal heating with USB charging for on-the-go touch-ups, and the Digital Eyelash Perm Curler gives precise, digital-display temperature control for a salon-style "lash perm" effect at home.
Pros of heated curlers:
- Longer-lasting curl — often through a full day
- Gentler on lashes since there's less mechanical pinching
- Great for straight, stubborn, or downward-growing lashes
- Many are compact and travel-friendly
Cons of heated curlers:
- Requires charging or batteries
- Slightly higher price point
- Needs a few uses to find your ideal heat setting and timing
Which One Should You Choose?
The right curler really depends on your lash type and your morning routine:
- If your lashes hold a curl easily and you like a fast, no-fuss routine, a metal curler like our Classic Metal Eyelash Curler is likely all you need.
- If your lashes are straight, fine, or fall flat by midday, a heated curler will give you noticeably longer-lasting results.
- If you travel often or need touch-ups on the go, a compact rechargeable option like our Mini Electric Eyelash Curler or Electric Lash Winder is worth the investment.
- If you want a dual-purpose tool, our Steel Tooth Brow Groomer & Eyelash Curler Set combines brow grooming with lash curling in one compact tool.
Getting the Best Results, Whichever You Choose
Regardless of which type of curler you use, a few habits will improve your results:
- Curl before mascara, never after. Curling over dried mascara can cause clumping, breakage, and an uneven bend.
- Work in sections. Curl the outer corner, middle, and inner corner separately for an even, natural arch rather than one flat crimp.
- Hold, don't yank. With metal curlers, gently squeeze and hold for a few seconds rather than pumping repeatedly. With heated curlers, a slow, steady sweep from base to tip works best.
- Clean your curler regularly. Product buildup on the curler pad can reduce grip and effectiveness over time.
The Bottom Line
Metal and heated curlers both have a place in a well-rounded lash routine — many people actually keep one of each. If you're only choosing one, think about how your lashes typically behave by the afternoon: if curl is already falling by lunchtime, heat is going to solve that problem far better than pressure alone.