The eyelash curler that many beauty junkies rave about is the Shu Uemura eyelash curler.
I own it, and I have found that this eyelash curler tends to follow the shape of my eye more closely than its cheap counterparts. As a result, I end up missing fewer eyelashes when I curl them. The curl is more dramatic as well.
As far as holding that curl, I don't know of any product out there that acts as a lash hairspray. You could try a heated eyelash curler, but I personally haven't tried one and don't recommend it. As a substitute, you could give your eyelash curler a quick blast of warm air with your hairdryer and let it cool enough to use it on your delicate eye area. I personally have never tried this, so if you do, please be extremely careful and do so at your own risk. You must ensure that your eyelash curler doesn't get too hot!
Aside from that, your eyelash curler plus a good mascara might do the trick. DiorShow mascara is pretty much the best of the best, but be careful applying with its big brush. It is not available in waterproof. Benefit's BadGal Lash Mascara is another good option that is available in waterproof. Sometimes high-end mascaras tend to dry out fairly quickly as well. If you don't want to invest in pricier mascara, I have heard good reviews about CoverGirl's Lash Blast mascara, although I have not tried it myself.
An optional finishing touch, you can set everything, I recommend trying a makeup "setting" product, such as Benefit's She-Laq.
Pricing (excludes tax and shipping):
Shu Uemura eyelash curler: $19
DiorShow Mascara $24
Benefit BadGal Lash: $9 (small size); $19 (large size)
CoverGirl Lash Blast: Approximately $6 to $9
Benefit She-Laq: $30
Availability:
All products are available from Sephora.com except CoverGirl LashBlast, which is available at most US discount retailers and drug stores.
I know I probably went overboard with my answer, but at least you should be all set. LOL.
Source(s):
I have been keeping up with the latest and greatest beauty products for about 11 years.