How to Curl Stubborn Lashes with a Wide Lash Curler

By ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr | Published: 2026-10-15

Category: How-to Guides

Straight, stubborn lashes can hold a curl with the right wide curler and a few deliberate steps. Here is the exact technique, plus the mistakes that flatten results.

Quick answer

Curl stubborn lashes by working in three short presses from root to tip with a wide curler, holding each press for at least five seconds. The width matters: a wider curler reaches the full lash line in one placement, so you avoid the crimped, uneven bend that happens when you curl in sections. If your lashes still fall, the problem is usually skipped root pressure or curling after mascara.

Why straight lashes need a wide curler

Straight lashes have a more stubborn memory than curled lashes, so they need even pressure along the entire lash line. A narrow curler forces you to curl in sections, which can create a sharp angle at the root and a weak tip. A wide curler like the Hey, Curl Ultra Wide Lash Curler XXL is designed to lift and curl eyelashes from root to tip in just a few seconds, which means one placement instead of three.

Prep your lashes and tool

Start with clean, dry lashes. Any leftover mascara, oil, or setting spray residue adds weight and makes the curl drop faster. If you use a lash curler with a silicone pad, check that the pad is seated evenly and not torn. A worn pad can pinch or create a dented curl. Warm the curler briefly with your hands or a blow dryer on low for a few seconds, but always test the temperature on your inner wrist before it goes near your eye.

The three-press method for a lasting curl

Place the curler at the very base of your lashes, as close to the waterline as comfortable. Press gently and hold for at least five seconds. Then walk the curler halfway up the lash and press again for five seconds. Finally, move to the tips and press for another five seconds. This graduated approach bends the lash along its length instead of creasing it in one spot. The Hey, Curl curler is made for this: position lashes into the curler, gently press and hold for at least five seconds, and use it before or after mascara.

What to do when the curl still falls

If your lashes flatten within an hour, the usual cause is curling after mascara has fully dried, which can clump and weigh down the lash. Curl before mascara, or gently curl again after mascara only if the formula is still slightly flexible. Another fix is to add a thin layer of waterproof mascara after curling, since it holds a bend better than most washable formulas. For an extra grip, you can lightly dust lashes with translucent powder before curling, but keep it minimal to avoid a grey cast.

Step-by-step lash curling routine

Step 1: Start with clean, dry lashes: Remove any mascara or oil with a gentle cleanser and let lashes dry completely. Wet or coated lashes stretch instead of holding a bend. Checkpoint: lashes should feel bare and flexible, not stiff or tacky.
Step 2: Position the wide curler at the root: Open the curler and place it at the base of your lashes, as close to the waterline as comfortable. Keep your eye relaxed and look slightly downward. Mistake to avoid: clamping down too hard or too close, which can pinch the eyelid.
Step 3: Press and hold for five seconds: Gently press the handles together and hold for at least five seconds. This sets the initial lift at the root, where stubborn lashes need the most support. Checkpoint: you should feel a firm but not painful pressure.
Step 4: Walk the curler to the midpoint: Release, move the curler halfway up the lash length, and press again for five seconds. This creates a smooth curve instead of a sharp angle. Mistake to avoid: skipping this step, which leaves a crimp at the root and straight tips.
Step 5: Finish at the tips: Move the curler to the ends of your lashes and press for a final five seconds. This seals the curl and prevents the tips from drooping. Checkpoint: the lash should curve evenly from base to tip.
Step 6: Apply mascara to lock in the curl: Coat lashes with your usual mascara, wiggling the wand from root to tip. If your curl tends to fall, use a waterproof or long-wear formula. Mistake to avoid: pumping the wand, which adds air and clumps that weigh lashes down.

Product facts

Hey, Curl Ultra Wide Lash Curler XXL: Hey, Curl Ultra Wide Lash Curler XXL is a must-have beauty tool to effortlessly lift and curl eyelashes from root to tip in just a few seconds. The wide design lets you curl the full lash line in one placement, so straight lashes get an even lift without sectioning.
Ultimate Kite Puff Precision Brightening Set: Ultimate Kite Puff Precision Brightening Set includes two ultra-soft puffs, small and large, for targeted brightening, color correcting, baking, and setting. After curling, a small puff can press setting powder under the eyes without disturbing the curl, helping your eye makeup stay put.