The correct order is to curl your lashes before applying mascara. Mascara can make lashes stiff, so curling them afterward may cause them to stick to the curler, clump or break.
The Correct Order
- Start with clean, dry lashes.
- Place the eyelash curler at the base of your upper lashes.
- Gently squeeze for 5 to 10 seconds.
- Move the curler slightly toward the tips and squeeze again if you want more lift.
- Apply mascara from the roots to the tips.
Why Curl Before Mascara?
Mascara makes lashes less flexible. When you clamp a curler over mascara, the product can stick to the rubber pad and pull on the lashes. Curling first gives the lashes lift while they are still soft, with less risk of smudging or breakage.
What If Your Curl Drops After Mascara?
Try a curling mascara or a heated lash curler designed for use after mascara. Avoid clamping a standard metal eyelash curler over wet mascara.
If the mascara has dried, you can use a regular curler with very light pressure. Curling before mascara is still the safer option.
Bottom line: curl your lashes first, then apply mascara.