Every woman wants long, full, irresistible eyelashes, but most of us can’t get them unless we resort to the torture device also known as the metal eyelash curler. For alternatives to get great lashes, we talked to Amanda Jacobellis, celebrity makeup artist and owner of Makeup Mandy Eyelash Bar and Makeup Studio. Here are five tips for fabulous lashes.

1. Condition Those Lashes
Even if you’re not a frequent waterproof mascara user, take note. Some mascaras bond to lashes much more tightly than others, which is great if you plan on jumping into a pool, but not so great for keeping them supple and glossy. To make sure your lashes don’t dry out (which can then lead to breaking), Amanda recommends using an eyelash conditioner (like Paula Dorf’s Perfect Lash) before applying mascara.

2. Try Biotin: The Fundamental Lash Supplemental
Biotin is a vitamin B supplement often found in many cosmetic and health products. Doctors usually recommend it to help strengthen hair and nails, but Amanda says it is also very effective in strengthening eyelashes, and for less than $4.00 a bottle, it’s worth a shot. Just make sure it doesn’t conflict with any other pills you are currently taking.