Are you a lash enthusiast looking to start your own business?
Whether you are an enthusiast, or a beginner artist, the idea of having your lash business is exciting. Yes, it involves hard work, but it can also be incredibly rewarding!
Starting any business is challenging, but it's easier when you love what you do. For lash lovers, launching a lash salon offering extensions or beauty services like lash lifts, could be your ideal venture. Even if you're on a tight budget, you can provide services at home to save on costs.
In this complete guide, we'll help you explore the detailed world of lash extensions, providing you with important steps, helpful insights, and secret tips to start your own lash extension business.
From mastering the art of lash application to building a strong client base and establishing a brand that stands out – let's dive into this incredible journey. Here are the 10 steps to start your own eyelash extension business:
- Get certified through a reputable lash extension training course
- Research what other lash businesses do in your area
- Choose your lashing place
- Set up your lash space
- Stock lash extension tools and supplies
- Create your lash business brand name
- Register your business & open a business bank account
- Set up your booking system
- Marketing and building a strong online presence
- Planning and budgeting
1. Get certified through a reputable lash extension training course
As an artist, you can offer different beauty services to diverse clients' various needs. Whether it's eyelash extensions, lash lifts, lash tints, or other specialized applications, the key to earning clients' trust lies in displaying your expertise through certificates and qualifications.
In the competitive industry of lash artistry, exceptional lash training is your weapon for success. If you want your lash business to do well, you've got to learn the right skills.
Practice truly makes perfect in this field. Learning from different trainers allows you to improve your techniques and develop your unique lashing style. You can pick from various eyelash extension training courses.
Choose from trusted sources that give certificates. Before joining, check the reviews to know if other participants liked it.
Having certificates and licenses can prove you're professional and legal. They show your services and lash business are legit, keeping both you and your clients safe.
Also, if you have lots of certificates, you can charge higher prices. Qualifications show clients you're skilled, making them willing to pay more.
2. Research what other lash businesses do in your area
Market research is really important for any business plan. Even though the eyelash industry is friendly, your lash friends can also be your competitors. Especially if you're working in the same area.
It doesn't mean you have to fight for customers. There are ways to help each other out and make sure everyone gets a fair chance to succeed!
You should be aware what your competitors are up to and whether there are already lots of lash services offered in your area.
Is there a part of your area where there are no lash specialists? Are there services nobody provides nearby? Also, find out other lash technicians’ prices and how they promote their services:
- Which lash styles do they offer (e.g. do they offer classic sets only, or also hybrid and volume lashes)?
- How much do they charge for a full set and infills?
- What kind of demographic of clients do they target? (e.g. are they working with younger or more mature clients?)
- What is their branding like?
- How do they market themselves, and attract new clients?
Answering these questions help you figure out how to make your eyelash business unique and noticeable.
If no one in your area is offering eyelash extensions, it's a good sign for you to start your own lash business! You still can research lash businesses closest to your area to get helpful information and inspiration.
Once you've done some research and checked out competitors’ social media, you can start making your own menu for eyelash services and decide on prices.
If you are new to this, it's a good idea to charge a bit less than your competition at the beginning. But be careful not to go too low – some beginners underprice because they're not confident yet. It might work for a while, but remember, there are costs running a business. Like rent, electricity, internet, equipment, and more.
So, it might be better idea to set reasonable prices first and offer special deals (like 50% off a full set) until you get comfortable charging the regular price. After good work with the special deal clients, you'll likely have some regular customers.
3. Choose your lashing place
When starting your lash business, you have to decide where you'll work. Do you want to work from home, rent space in a salon, or open your own studio?
This decision is crucial because it affects how your business runs and the insurance you'll require. All options have their pros and cons, so you need to choose what suits you best.
If you want to start your lash business from home, there are things to consider.
- First, if you're renting your home, you have to ask your landlord for permission, because running a business might need special insurance. If you're paying a mortgage, you might even need permission from the bank.
- Secondly, you problably need to add your business address on public records, online platforms where you want your business to be seen or found. So, there's also a safety concern as strangers might come into your home.
Working in an existing salon or studio, makes your business look professional.
- You have to pay rent for the space, so it might be difficult to start with.
- In a existing salon you don't have complete freedom to set up your treatment room the way you want.
- The building's heating might not be ideal for eyelash extensions.
If you decide to buy or rent a space for your salon, you will have full control.
- You can decide over the salon's design, services offered, and overall ambiance.
- However, you will have more responsibilities and much higher expenses.
When you're starting out as a lash technician, it is really important to make a great first impression. Keep it in mind when choosing and setting up your lash space if you want to create a good reputation right from the beginning.
When choosing your lash place you will also have to consider its location advantages and disadvantages. For example, how easy is it to get there – are there any public transport stops nearby; or is there any available parking for clients coming with a car? These are some relevant factors to consider when assessing the convenience of the location.
No matter where you work, you need to make sure your treatment room has the right humidity and temperature, which is important for working with eyelash extensions. It is really important for your business because it defines your working speed and quality.
4. Set up your lash space
When you have decided where you want your lash business to be based, the next step is to set up your lash space.
Here is a list of the things you will need:
- Treatment bead or a massage bed
- Ergonomic chair to support your back
- Comfy chair for the waiting area
- A warm plaid or blanket to keep clients warm
- Pillow to keep the head steady and comfortable for the client
- Lighting for close-up work
- Ring light for portraits
- Lash cart and organizer
- Thermo- and hygrometer
- Cleaning and hygiene supplies
When you're just starting, you don't have to overspend and buy brand-new furniture. Consider buying used items (they're usually cheaper than new ones) from places like Facebook Marketplace or other local marketplaces. As your business grows, you can gradually improve and upgrade your setup.
Here's a inspirational Instagram account for designing your lash space: Lash Room Decor.
5. Stock lash extension tools and supplies
As a lash tech, you need to stock professional eyelash extension tools and supplies. This step is crucial, especially if you're working alone. You must always have enough lash supplies like eyelash extensions, adhesives, cleansers, and tools like tweezers and brushes.
It's important to stay organized and keep track of what you have. You never want to run out of something essential, especially when it takes time to restock.
With Starry, you can order all the needed supplies at one stop. So you can focus on developing your skills and business, making your customers happy.
Here is a list of the basic lash artist supplies to get you started:
- Lash shampoo and cleansing brush
- Lash primer (for pre-treatment)
- Micro brushes (for priming)
- Under-eye gel patches
- Lash tapes (for securing bottom lashes) and mini scissors for cutting the tape
- Classic lash trays – start with mix trays to keep your budget under control (C, CC & D curl 0.15)
- Premade fans (mixed trays) – if you want to offer volume lashes
- Lash adhesive
- Jade stone or glass glue and lash plate
- Disposable glue holder or glue ring
- Lash tweezers – you definitely need a straight one for separating and a curved one for placing the extensions. If you plan to make volume fans by yourself, you need volume lash tweezers as well.
- Air blower or mini fan
- Lash spoolies (for brushing lashes)
- Gel glue remover
- Flocked lash applicators (for lash removal)
If you find the above list overwhelming, you might choose to get a starter kit instead, that includes all your lash essentials:
- Starter kit RISING STAR – the best kit for classic looks.
- Starter kit TWIN STAR – everything you need for both classic and volume lash looks.
- Starter kit PREMADE STARTER – the best kit for volume sets (it includes premade lash fans).
- Starter kit SUPERSTAR – if you want to give yourself the best possible start.
All our products are thoroughly assessed and safe to use. They comply with European Parliament regulations and are registered in the European Cosmetic Product Notification Portal.
We will always deliver top-quality, reasonably-priced products to your doorstep as soon as possible. Your order is shipped within 24 hours on working days – guaranteed. We use DHL Express to deliver orders in 1-3 working days all over the world.
PS: Keep in mind that lash glues have a shelf life of about 6 months when unopened. For new businesses, it's wise to order rather less glue initially. See how long it lasts based on your number of clients to know your need so you can minimize waste and protect your profits.
6. Create your lash business brand name
Choosing the perfect name for your lash business is essential as it sets the tone for your brand and can significantly impact your success. Here are some tips to help you create a catchy and memorable lash business name:
- Get inspiration: Look at other lash artists all over the world and use different helping tools like ChatGPT and Business Name Generator.
- Be unique: Stand out from the competition by choosing a creative name. Avoid generic terms and pick up something distinctive that reflects your style and expertise.
- Think about branding: Consider how the name will look on your business cards, signage, and other marketing materials that will boost your branding.
- Keep it short & simple: A short and easy-to-remember name is more likely to stick in the minds of your potential clients. Avoid complicated words or phrases.
- Check availability: Before finalizing a name, make sure the domain name is available for your website. Also, check social media platforms to ensure the name isn’t already in use.
- Consider the future: A too specific name might limit your services in the long term. Choose a name that allows for expansion and diversification if you plan to offer more than just lash extension services.
- Get feedback: Once you have a few name options, ask for feedback from friends, family, or potential clients to gain valuable insights and choose the most appealing name.
Remember, your lash business name is the first impression you make on potential clients, so take your time, get creative, and choose a name that you are proud of and excited to represent your brand.
7. Register your business & open a business bank account
If you're just getting into the world of lash extensions, it's not just about perfecting your art – it's also about setting up your business the right way. Here's why registering your business and getting a business bank account are crucial steps for your success.
Registering your business
When you officially register your lash extension business, you're giving it a legal identity. This not only makes you look more professional but also builds trust with your clients. It's like telling the world that you're serious about what you do.
Registration also opens up doors for opportunities. You can participate in events, team up with others, and enjoy tax benefits. Plus, it helps you comply with the rules, showing that you're playing by the book.
Opening a business bank account
Having a separate bank account just for your business is a smart move. It makes managing money much easier. You can keep track of what's coming in and going out, helping you make better decisions.
Using a business account also adds a layer of professionalism. When clients pay into a business account, it shows that you mean business. And as your lash skills get more popular, you'll appreciate having a system in place for handling payments and expenses.
Separating your personal and business money isn't just about organization – it's a good safety net. If any legal issues come up, having a clear money trail protects your personal stuff from getting mixed up in business problems.
In a nutshell, as you dive into the lash extension business, don't forget the business side of things. Registering officially and setting up a business bank account might seem like extra steps, but they're the foundation for turning your lash passion into a successful venture.
8. Set up your booking system
Another crucial aspect of starting your lashing business is the implementation of a reliable booking system. Some lash artists continue to rely on phone calls and messages for client bookings. However, consider this: do you want to be responding to client messages late at night when you're trying to relax, or when you're enjoying your weekends?
Embracing online booking systems offers several advantages over traditional methods.
Firstly, online booking systems provide convenience for both lash artists and clients. With a user-friendly online system, customers can easily select their preferred date and time, view availability, and even receive automated reminders.
Automated reminders and confirmations can help you ensure that clients are well informed about their appointments. This, in turn, can contribute to a more reliable and consistent client base, reducing the likelihood of no-shows.
Additionally, online booking systems offer a more organized and efficient way to manage appointments. They automate the process, eliminating the need for lash artists to manually keep track of appointments. This not only saves time but also minimizes the risk of errors in scheduling, double bookings, or missed appointments and ensures a smooth workflow.
How to set up your booking system?
- Choose the software.
Select a booking system that aligns with your needs. Look for features such as calendar integration, automated reminders, and user-friendly interfaces. Popular platforms include Square Appointments, Acuity Scheduling, and SimplyBook.me. - Customize your schedule.
Tailor your booking system to reflect your working hours, break times, and days off. This ensures that clients only see available slots and helps maintain a healthy work-life balance. - Integrate payment options.
Simplify transactions by integrating a secure payment gateway into your booking system. This not only streamlines the payment process but also reduces the risk of no-shows, as clients are more likely to commit to appointments they've paid for in advance. - Promote it.
Let your clients know about the convenience of your new booking system. Utilize social media, your website, and in-salon promotions to encourage clients to embrace the online booking experience.
By incorporating a digital booking system, you can not only enhance your operational efficiency but also elevate the overall client experience. It's a strategic move that contributes to business growth, client satisfaction, and the seamless execution of their artistic endeavors.
Image by rawpixel.com Freepik
9. Marketing and building a strong online presence
In the fast-paced world of beauty and aesthetics, a strong online presence is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. For aspiring lash extension artists, effectively marketing your skills online can make all the difference in attracting clients and establishing a thriving business. Here are some key tips to help you navigate the digital landscape:
Craft a stunning website
Your website is your virtual business card. Ensure it's user-friendly, visually appealing, and showcases your best work through high-quality images. Include essential information about your services and clear contact details.
Social media mastery
Use the power of social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Regularly post captivating images of your lash extensions, use relevant industry hashtags, and engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages.
Optimize for search engines
Implement SEO strategies to boost your website's visibility. Use keywords related to lash extensions in your content, meta tags, and image descriptions. Adding partners links can also improve visibility in Google search. We offer free linking cooperation for our partners, you can read more about it here.
Google My Business
Claim and optimize your Google My Business profile. This is a crucial step for local SEO, allowing potential clients to find you easily. Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews, further increasing your online credibility.
Invest in online advertising
Consider running targeted online ads through platforms like Google Ads or Meta Ads. This can significantly expand your reach, allowing you to connect with potential clients who may not have discovered you otherwise.
Show and tell with portfolios
Create online portfolios on platforms like Behance or specialized beauty platforms. This provides a centralized location for potential clients to view your work and read reviews from satisfied customers.
Build collaborations
Collaborate with local businesses or influencers in the beauty industry. Offer special promotions or discounts in exchange for them promoting your lash extension services to their followers.
Maintain consistent branding
Establish a cohesive brand image across all online platforms. Use the same logo, color scheme, and tone of voice to create a memorable brand identity that clients can easily recognize.
Educate and engage
Share educational content related to lash extensions, such as aftercare tips, style trends, or maintenance advice. Position yourself as an expert in your field to build trust and credibility.
Be part of the community
Join online beauty and local business communities. Participate in discussions, share your expertise, and offer valuable advice to build meaningful relationships within the industry.
Remember, building a robust online presence is an ongoing process. Stay consistent, adapt your strategy based on feedback, and watch your lash extension business flourish in the digital world.
Image by Freepik
10. Lash business planning and budgeting
Now, that we know all the steps and parts of the lash extension business journey, it's time to get everything together and do some budgeting.
Starting a career as a lash extension artist is an exciting adventure where you get to be creative and boost your clients' confidence. But in the midst of all the excitement, it's important to build a strong foundation for your business by becoming really good at managing your money. Here are some key tips to help you with that:
Craft a detailed business plan
Before diving in, draft a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, and services. Research your competition, set a pricing strategy, and estimate startup and ongoing expenses.
Invest wisely in equipment & products
Allocate funds for essential equipment, including a lash bed, quality lighting, and premium lash extension supplies. Prioritize comfort for your clients and the durability of your tools. Invest in high-quality lash extension products to ensure good retention as well as client satisfaction.
Continuous education and training
Budget for lash extension training courses and ongoing education to enhance your skills and stay current with industry trends. Continuous learning is key to success in this evolving field.
Insurance matters
Protect yourself and your business by investing in liability insurance. This helps protect you in case of accidents or unexpected circumstances, providing peace of mind for both you and your clients.
Strategic marketing investment
Allocate a budget for marketing and promotion efforts. A professional website, business cards, and both online and offline marketing will help attract clients and establish your brand.
Operational costs
Estimate ongoing expenses, including rent for your workspace, utilities, and regular maintenance. Keep a stock of supplies, such as lash extensions, adhesive, and other consumables.
Financial preparedness
Set aside funds for taxes and consider hiring an accountant to manage your finances effectively. Having a clear financial plan ensures stability and compliance with regulations.
Emergency fund
Establish an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or periods of low income. This buffer will keep your business afloat during challenging times.
Continuous evaluation and adjustment
Regularly review your budget and adjust it based on your business performance and market conditions. Be flexible and open to refining your financial strategy as needed.
Conclusion
Launching a successful lash extension business requires more than just artistic skill – it demands financial acumen and strategic planning. By implementing these lash extension business launching tips, you'll be better positioned to create a thriving business that not only meets but exceeds your aspirations.
Starting a business might seem hard at first, and you'll face a lot of challenges. But going through it can make you grow and give you important experiences. In the end, we're sure it'll be worth it. Best of luck on your lash extension journey!
