Thinking about starting a lash business? Whether you’ve just got your lash tech certification or you’ve been in the industry for a while and you’re about to start on your own, we have a few tips on how to start an eyelash extension business.

Let’s see how you can become your own boss.

How to Start an Eyelash Extension Business: 13 Steps

1. Get your lash tech certification & license

If you haven’t already got a lash tech certification, that’s your first step. A lash certification is proof that you can and have the skills to work in this industry. 

Additionally, you’ll need to get your lash tech license, which is something different.

Do a bit of research and see what type of certification you need. 

How to become a lash tech in the US? It depends on the state you’re from. Here are a few possible scenarios:

• Cosmetology or Esthetician license: Most states require a cosmetology or esthetician license. This usually means you’ll have to complete a state-approved training program and pass a licensing exam.

• Specialty licenses: Some states offer a specific eyelash extension specialty license for those who want to focus only on lash services, which may involve different training exams. 
• No specific license required: A few states, such as Indiana or Maryland, do not have specific licensing requirements for eyelash extensions. Even so, check with your state’s board to be sure everything is up to code and you’re operating legally.

💡Here’s an article with all the states and their requirements: https://thelashstudioandacademy.com/do-you-have-to-be-licensed-to-do-lashes/ 

If you’re from Europe and you want to know how to become a lash tech, check out your country’s regulations. Each EU member country sets its own regulations for the beauty industry, including potential licensing requirements for lash technicians. 

How long does it take to become a lash tech?

It depends on your chosen training program and your dedication to individual practice. It can take anywhere from a few months to a year or even longer to reach a level of expertise you're comfortable with.

But here’s an example of a possible timeframe, which involves two main parts: completing a training course and gaining hands-on experience.

• Training courses

Lash technician training programs can range from a few days to several weeks. But keep in mind that shorter courses focus only on the basics of lash application.

More comprehensive programs take several months and delve into advanced techniques, styles, and business aspects. 

• Practice time

After finishing the lash technician course, you need to practice to become a skilled technician. You can ask your friends to be your models, or you can practice on a mannequin head. This can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to develop proficiency.

2. Pick a location

When picking a location, it all comes down to your financial situation and plans for the future. You can either rent a place or start your business at home. The more expensive alternative to these two is buying a place.

If you want to know how to start your own lash business from home, here are a few great beginner lash tech tips:

How To Start A LASH Business from HOME 🏡

3. Name your lash business

Starting a lach tech business means picking and developing a brand identity as well. So, think of a name that’ll fit your business and style.

A few tips here: 

• When starting a lash business, you should set up a website. For this, you need a domain name. You can look up available domain names and buy one from domain registries and web hosting companies such as GoDaddy.
• You will also need to be active on social media to share your work. Check Instagram and Facebook to ensure that no one has already taken your preferred handle, which should be similar, if not identical, to your business name.

Once you’ve decided on a name, you can design your logo. For this, you can hire a graphic designer or do it yourself for free using Canva.

4. Register your business

The process for registering your lash business will vary depending on whether you're in the US or Europe. Here's a general breakdown:

US:

1. Choose a business structure: Decide if you'll operate as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Each has advantages and disadvantages regarding taxes and liability. If you’re unsure which option is best, consult an accountant or lawyer for guidance.
2. Get a business name: We discussed this earlier. You’ll also need to check with your state's business division to ensure your chosen name is available. If you operate under a different name than your own, you might need to file a DBA (Doing Business As) name.
3. Register with your state: Most states require businesses to register and obtain a business license. This process is usually handled online or by mail through your Secretary of State's office.
4. Apply for Federal Tax ID: Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is used for filing federal taxes and opening business bank accounts.
5. Check for state and local permits: Depending on your location, you might need additional permits for cosmetology services or health inspections. Contact your local licensing board or city/county office for details.
6. Business insurance: Get lash tech insurance set up for your business.

💡More information here: https://www.sba.gov/ 

Europe:

The European Union (EU) has some standardized business registration processes. Keep in mind that specific requirements can differ by country. Here's a general approach:

1. Choose a legal form: Similar to the US, decide on a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC equivalent), or a corporation. Each country might have its variations.
2. Business name registration: Same thing with the business name. Check with your country's business registry to ensure your name is available.
3. Business registration: Register your business with the appropriate government agency. This process can happen online, or you might need to visit a local authority office.
4. Tax registration: Register for Value Added Tax (VAT) if your business income exceeds a certain threshold (varies by country).
5. Business insurance: Get lash tech insurance set up for your business.

💡More information here: https://europa.eu/youreurope/business/running-business/start-ups/starting-business/index_en.htm 

5. Create a professional website

When becoming a business owner, you need all the exposure you can get, starting with a professional website.

A website not only shows who you are and what services you offer but works as a central hub where you can connect all your social media pages and all the content you will publish to get organic traffic from search engines.

To get people to find out about your business online, create and publish content your target audience searches for.

If you plan to create a professional website for your lash business and don’t want to hire a developer, you can do it on a free website builder such as Wix, which also offers free domain hosting.

6. Set up social media and Google Business Profile accounts

In the beauty industry, a big part of your marketing efforts will be on social media: posting pictures and videos of your work, sharing testimonials, organizing giveaways, etc. 

That’s why it’s essential to start Instagram and Facebook business accounts (maybe even TikTok if you know your audience spends time on the platform) and start building your community.

Post as often as possible – the algorithm likes active social media people.

Besides these platforms, you should register your business with Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). Set up your profile with detailed information about your lash business to make sure it will show up in Google searches in your area. Plus, you can integrate your online booking website with Google Business Profile and get booked by more clients with no efforts.

7. Research your competitors and set your prices

Find a few lash businesses near you and start researching their:

• Services
• Prices
• Target audience
• Promotions & loyalty programs

After doing this research, you will be ready to create your lash services menu and set your prices. It will also give you a few pointers on how to get lash clients.

Tip: Even if you’re a beginner, don’t set your prices too low. While it’s normal to offer services at lower prices than an experienced lash technician, don’t sell yourself short. It will be more difficult to raise your prices and reach your competitor’s level if you start way too low.

8. Buy lash supplies

Make sure you have everything you need for the opening day and for a few weeks after. Here’s a list of products to get you started:

• Classic lash trays
• At least two sets of tweezers (you need to have one ready in case you don’t have time to sanitize them in between clients)
• Glue
• Primer
• Under eye pads
• Lash tape
• Air blower or mini fan
• Cream glue remover
• Flocked lash applicators 
• Micro brushes 
• Lash spoolies 
• Premade fans for volume lashes

You can also choose to buy an Essential Lash Kit instead, which includes all your lash essentials.

9. Buy equipment 

Besides the lash supplies, you also need proper equipment to operate. The list includes a few essentials:

• Massage table or reclining chair
• Sheets
• Pillows
• Blankets for extra comfort
• Lash cart
• Ring light
• Sterilization tools (UV sterilizer or CS20 sterilizer)

Start browsing on Amazon. You’ll find everything you need to buy at affordable prices.

10. Decorate the space

Whether you’re doing this from home or in a rented space, you need to decorate it a bit to make it welcoming.

The way you do it is entirely up to you and your budget, but you definitely don’t have to overdo it to have a great outcome. 

11. Set up your online booking system

This is an essential part that will determine part of your success. This is because if a good online booking system is set in place, you can take care of all your appointments without worrying about scheduling future ones.

Goldie is an appointment booking app that will help you keep track of your business. Here’s how Goldie can help you:

• Keep your business organized.
• Sync with other calendars (such as Apple/Google) to manage everything from one place.
• Switch between daily, weekly, and monthly views to see all your upcoming appointments.
• Get notified about every upcoming appointment.
• Use the recurring appointment feature for your regular customers.
• Set up automated appointment reminders and booking confirmations to reduce no-shows.

Goldie resources: 

• How to Create an Online Booking System for a Small Business
• How to Increase Online Bookings in your Salon Business
• 9 Effective Tips on How to Reduce Salon No-shows

12. Accept multiple payment methods

There are booking apps that allow you to accept deposits and payments from clients online without the need for other expensive equipment.

This is a great option if you want to get rid of no-shows and lost income. Your clients will remember the appointment as they don’t want to lose the deposit.

13. Keep track of your business

When starting your own lash business, you need to keep track of everything related to your revenue. See what’s working and what needs improvement by analyzing your reports on a regular basis.

This is why you should have an easy-to-understand reporting system to identify trends, get ready for every tax season, and have a clear breakdown of your appointments.

Conclusion

Starting a lash business needs careful planning, dedication, and attention to detail. 

Every step is important to succeed in this industry, from obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses to setting up your online presence and creating a welcoming space for clients.

Use an app like Goldie for appointment management and tracking to ease your process of becoming a lash entrepreneur.