The Full History of the Eyelash Curler

By Juliet Torres Gonzales

The Full History of the Eyelash Curler

By Juliet Torres Gonzales

When it comes to beauty staples, few tools have endured quite like the eyelash curler. A simple yet revolutionary device, it’s become an essential part of many makeup routines, capable of dramatically lifting the eyes and transforming the face. But how did we get here? From the surprisingly intimidating contraptions of the early 20th century to today’s ergonomic wonders, let’s take a stroll through the history of the eyelash curler.

Origins: The Birth of the Eyelash Curler (1920s–1930s)

Our story begins in the roaring '20s, an era marked by dramatic social change, flapper girls, and a newfound obsession with eye makeup. It was during this time—in 1923—that William McDonell secured the first known patent for what would become today’s eyelash curler. Shortly thereafter, in 1931, Charles Stickel improved upon this design, introducing the first commercially successful eyelash curler called the "Kurlash." Advertised with glamorous posters promising dramatic, movie-star lashes, the Kurlash quickly became a must-have beauty accessory for women wanting to achieve that coveted Hollywood look.

The Golden Era of Glam (1940s–1960s)

Post-war America entered a glamorous age, where beauty standards favored bold, expressive eyes reminiscent of Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. The eyelash curler played a central role during these decades, seeing key innovations such as the inclusion of rubber pads to cushion and protect lashes. Max Factor, a beauty giant of the era, popularized a more user-friendly, smoother operating curler designed to create an elegant, sweeping curl without damaging delicate eyelashes. By now, the lash curler had firmly established itself as an indispensable tool for women looking to replicate the sultry, glamorous looks gracing silver screens and glossy magazine covers.

@erinparsonsmakeup #eyelashcurler 🙃 #vintagemakeup ♬ Elevator Music - Bohoman

The Science and Safety Shift (1970s–1990s)

With growing consumer awareness and higher safety standards, eyelash curlers saw significant ergonomic improvements. What had once seemed like a daunting device evolved into something safer and more comfortable to use. Designers began to prioritize user-friendly grips, gentle squeezing mechanisms, and cushioned curling pads to minimize discomfort and lash breakage. By the 1980s, eyelash curlers were firmly cemented as a staple beauty product, receiving recognition from prominent magazines like Vanity Fair and Cosmopolitan, where they were famously celebrated as "a beauty tool no woman should be without."

Innovation Enters (2000s–Today)

The turn of the millennium introduced an explosion of innovation, with eyelash curlers evolving to meet the demands of modern beauty enthusiasts. Heated eyelash curlers, designed to offer longer-lasting curls through gentle heat, became a popular alternative for those looking to ditch mascara completely. Brands began offering compact, travel-sized curlers, battery-powered curlers, and even curlers designed specifically for different eye shapes. Ergonomic designs continued to improve, with silicone pads replacing traditional rubber for greater durability and gentleness.

Godefroy Beauty has proudly become part of this ongoing evolution, introducing their innovative Permacurl Pro Heated Eyelash Curler. Offering a safe, effective, and comfortable curling experience, it gently lifts lashes using precisely controlled heat. Unlike conventional curlers that can pinch or damage lashes, the Permacurl Pro delivers smooth, consistent curls that last throughout the day. Quick to heat and ergonomically designed, it's an excellent addition to any modern beauty routine, significantly reducing lash breakage and discomfort.

Today, the market offers an array of specialized curlers—from the traditional metal clamp to the innovative heated wand. Whether you prefer a gentle curl for everyday elegance or a dramatic lift for evening glam, there’s a curler out there tailored exactly to your needs.

@godefroybeauty The Permacurl Pro is the ultimate beauty hack for effortlessly lifted lashes- no mascara, no fuss!✨ Perfect for achieving that soft, natural no-makeup makeup look in seconds.💕 Ready to upgrade your beauty routine? Get yours today🔥! #godefroybeauty #tiktokshop #beauty #beautyinfluencer ♬ Come Inside Of My Heart - IV Of Spades

From its humble, intimidating beginnings in the 1920s to the sophisticated beauty tools we know today, the eyelash curler’s journey highlights both innovation and the timeless desire for beauty. More than just a tool, it has become a beauty staple, empowering women and men alike to express themselves through their appearance. As we continue embracing new technologies and ergonomic designs, one thing is clear—the eyelash curler isn’t just part of our beauty past; it’s an essential part of our beauty future.

Thank you for reading! Don't forget to check out last week's blog for more beauty insights.