There’s nothing like a good curl to define your lashes and make your eyes appear more open. However, it can be tough to get a lasting curve without torturing your lashes. Luckily, Allure magazine has a few tips to help you out.

Use an Eyelash Curler before you apply your mascara. This will ensure that the sticky formula won’t rip out your lashes and get stuck to the device. Applying afterwards also helps to set the curl and make it last all day.

When you’re curling, it helps to look sideways into a mirror so that you can see the progress you’re making. Squeeze the curler at the roots of your lashes, being careful not to get too close, as you could pinch your eyelid. Hold for three to five seconds, then move the curler to the middle of your lashes and do three one-second squeezes.

After you’re done, seal in the curve with a product like True Isaac Mizrahi – Crazy Lash Mascara Onyx. It might also help to use a primer beforehand, which will ensure that your lashes stay gorgeous and lush all day long.