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What is an Eyelash Comb?

Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee

An eyelash comb is an implement generally used to separate eyelashes after applying mascara. Eyelash combs help to keep the eyelashes from clumping together and can give them a fuller, more natural appearance. Some women have been known to use alternative tools for this purpose; straight pins, disposable mascara wands, and hair combs can produce similar results. Eyelash combs are a crucial part of cosmetic eyelash care.

Separating the eyelashes after applying mascara can help the lashes appear longer and thicker. Eyelashes generally look more natural when they are separated and free of clumps. Long, thick, natural-seeming lashes can make the eyes look wider and larger.

An eyelash comb can separate lashes to keep them from sticking to one another.
An eyelash comb can separate lashes to keep them from sticking to one another.

Eyelash combs are generally considered the safest way to separate eyelashes and remove mascara clumps during make up application. Many women may have once used straight pins to separate their eyelashes and remove clumps of mascara. Using straight pins to separate eyelashes can result in injury to the eye.

The fine teeth of some hair combs can be used to separate eyelashes and pull out clumps of mascara for a more natural appearance. A disposable mascara wand, often used in beauty salons and by makeup artists, can have an effect similar to an eyelash comb. The clean mascara wand can be combed through the eyelashes just after mascara has been applied, to pull out clumps and separate the lashes.

The eyelash comb is intended to be used after mascara is applied and before it dries.
The eyelash comb is intended to be used after mascara is applied and before it dries.

Eyelash combs may have plated metal teeth or plastic teeth. An eyelash comb with metal teeth is generally considered to be of superior quality. Combs with plastic teeth generally break more easily, and are more difficult to clean. Metal eyelash combs separate are considered to be more effective at separating lashes and removing clumps.

Before using an eyelash comb, many women prefer to curl their lashes with an eyelash curler. Many makeup professionals believe that mascara should be applied in thin layers. Wiggling the mascara wand during application may help to keep eyelashes from sticking together and reduce the need for eyelash separation. Removing excess mascara from the wand with a piece of tissue paper can reduce clumps and make the eyelash comb more effective.

Mascara can be applied in thin layers to help lengthen eyelashes.
Mascara can be applied in thin layers to help lengthen eyelashes.

The eyelash comb is intended to be used after mascara is applied and before it dries. Some eyelash combs are curved to fit the contour of the eye. These may be easier to use. Most eyelash comb users believe that the best way to use the comb is to pull it through the lashes from the roots to the tips. The lash comb can usually be cleaned with rubbing alcohol to remove mascara residue.

Discussion Comments

donasmrs

@SarahGen-- Why don't you just get a metal one? Metal eyelash combs work so much better. They don't cost that much more and it will last you for years. I've had mine for more than ten years and it still works great.

Most metal eyelash combs cost the same and work equally well. I've read good reviews about Tweezerman, Sonia Kashuk and Sephora brand eyelash combs.

SarahGen

@ddljohn-- Yes, eyelash combs are very easy to use and it will get rid of the clumps. But you have to make sure to use it immediately after applying the mascara. If you have a fast-drying mascara and use the eyelash comb when the mascara is sticky already, you can pull out a few eyelashes.

I use the eyelash comb before and immediately after the first application of mascara. The plastic ones are tough to clean, but it makes my eyelashes perfect, so I think it's worth it.

ddljohn

I've never used an eyelash comb before. Does it really make mascara application easier?

I usually buy a mascara that has a plastic wand made to separate individual eyelashes while coating them. I still get clumps from time to time though. Will an eyelash comb prevent clumps completely? Is it easy to use?

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    • An eyelash comb can separate lashes to keep them from sticking to one another.
      By: Péter Mács
      An eyelash comb can separate lashes to keep them from sticking to one another.
    • The eyelash comb is intended to be used after mascara is applied and before it dries.
      By: bedya
      The eyelash comb is intended to be used after mascara is applied and before it dries.
    • Mascara can be applied in thin layers to help lengthen eyelashes.
      By: Mikhail Malyugin
      Mascara can be applied in thin layers to help lengthen eyelashes.
    • Many women prefer to curl their lashes with an eyelash curler before using an eyelash comb.
      By: MartiniDry
      Many women prefer to curl their lashes with an eyelash curler before using an eyelash comb.