For hemmed-in, magnified eyes, nothing beats curled lashes. But how do you go about it when you don't have an eyelash curler to hand, or one that doesn't really inspire you? We tell you all about it. 

Let's face it, longer, curled lashes are a real game-changer. It immediately wakes up sleepy eyes, brightens up a complexion that's a little too gray... it gives you self-confidence in just a few beats! Of course, you'll love it, and you'll want the same results every morning as soon as you wake up. But not everyone is born with Bambi lashes. Fortunately, the beauty world has no shortage of tricks and accessories to remedy the situation, and that's where the famous eyelash curler comes in. Perceived as a savior by some, a torture tool by others, it's not always universally appreciated. Understandably, using an eyelash curler requires dexterity and know-how to avoid a nasty pinch on the eyelid or, even worse, broken eyelashes! In such cases, it's easy to forget about the eyelash curler, and it's time to find an alternative that's just as effective... 

The different techniques for curling lashes without an eyelash curler 

Dreading the eyelash curler isn't an end in itself, and you can always turn to another alternative to give yourself the curled lashes of your dreams. These tricks aren't widely used, but they can work wonders if you take the time to learn them properly.

Use a spoon to curl your lashes 

• You'll need: a teaspoon, hot water.

It may seem incongruous, but the little teaspoon (which we all have at home) can do the trick when it comes to curling eyelashes. Exactly how does it work? Start by choosing a small spoon that perfectly fits the size of your eye (teaspoons or teaspoons work very well) and dip it in very hot water, but not scalding hot, as the back of the spoon in question should be placed on the eyelid at the level of the upper lash line. Press your lashes against the back of the spoon for around ten seconds, repeating the operation for each eye. The heat helps the hair to position itself, similar to blow-drying your hair. Apply your eyeshadow, then a coat of mascara to set it all in place for the day.

The mascara brush technique for curling lashes 

Mascara brushes are often designed to maximize product application and help lashes curl. It's important to remember, however, that excess mascara and improper use of the brush can have the opposite effect to that intended... For beautifully curled lashes, the first thing to do is avoid going overboard. There's nothing worse than weighing down lashes, causing them to fall downwards and giving you that closed-off look. How do I apply mascara properly? First, remove any excess material from the brush, then apply your mascara in a light zigzag along the fringe of the lashes. Don't start at the base of the lashes, as this could weigh them down; instead, focus on the tips. This will lengthen them and support the curl. Finally, finish with an extra touch of mascara on the outer corner of the lashes to lengthen them. This technique has the effect of opening up the eyes even more! 

Curling lashes with a cotton bud 

You can also use a cotton bud to set your lashes in a beautiful curve. Start by applying your usual mascara (following the tips above), then finish by pressing your lashes upwards with the cotton bud. Leave it on for around ten seconds, to allow the mascara to dry in this position. Once dry, the mascara's shaping effect will help your lashes hold in this position. It's not as effective as using a spoon, but it's still an emergency technique! 

Choosing lash enhancement at an institute 

It's probably the simplest and most radical solution, even if it does require some expense. Eyelash enhancement is THE miracle solution for those looking for curved lashes without breaking the bank. How does it work? Performed in an institute, eyelash enhancement involves the application of a product that freezes the lashes in the desired curvature. The application takes around 40/50 minutes and lasts 3 to 4 weeks. With eyelash enhancement, mascara and eyelash curler are no longer necessary, although you can still indulge yourself and play up the eccentricity with ultra-intense lashes by applying your usual mascara. The enhancement doesn't prevent you from continuing your usual skincare routine either: you can still apply your eye contour care and even take the opportunity to treat yourself to a little lash growth treatment with a special lash serum . Your assurance of long, doe-like lashes in a totally natural way!