A lash business can give you a creative outlet and sustainable income, all while helping customers feel more self-assured in their appearances. The sector also has promising potential for growth: the global lash extensions market was valued at $1.60 billion in 2024 and is projected to be worth $2.73 billion by 2031.

For this kind of business, you’ll need the right supplies, a clean work environment, and an understanding of local regulations. It’s creative work that merges artistry with customer care, and if executed with a thoughtful plan, it can develop into a strong source of income.

Below, we’ll explain how to build a lash business from scratch.

What’s in this article?

• Why start a lash business?
  
• What supplies do you need to start a lash business?
  
• What are the legal requirements for a lash business?
  
• How do you find clients for your lash business?
  
• What are the best ways to accept payments?
  
• How do you price lash services?
  
• What challenges do lash businesses face, and how can you overcome them?
  

Why start a lash business?

The beauty industry is constantly reinventing itself, and lash extensions have become popular worldwide. For example, an estimated 129,000 lash treatments are done each week in the UK, making them the country’s most popular salon service. There are benefits for the business and customers, including:

• Lasting self-assurance: Lash extensions can help customers feel more polished and confident without investing hours into daily makeup routines. And they provide results that can last for weeks.

• Strong customer relationships: A lash business lets you create personal connections with clients. Working on someone’s lashes is often a close, one-on-one experience. You’ll have the chance to learn about that person’s preferences and daily routine and about how they want to present themselves. That kind of close collaboration can feel rewarding on both sides.

• Low initial costs: Lash businesses have relatively low startup costs compared with some other beauty ventures. The average operating costs for a lash business range from $3,100 to $9,000. Though you have to follow licensing steps and pay initial expenses for supplies, you won’t need to lease a huge storefront on Day 1. Many lash artists start with a home studio or rent a room in a salon or spa.

• Flexibility: You have flexibility in how you structure your services. Some lash artists specialize in natural sets, while others offer more dramatic looks. You can add related services (e.g., brow shaping, waxing) later. Growing a loyal base of clients opens possibilities for experimentation and business expansion. If you’re driven, detail oriented, and eager to help others look and feel great, a lash business can be a rewarding fit.

What supplies do you need to start a lash business?

A lash artist’s tool kit doesn’t have to be complicated, though quality matters with the products you buy. To do this work properly, you’ll need these items:

• Lash extensions: These are at the core of any lash business. Styles vary in length, curl, and thickness. It’s common to keep a range of options so you can customize each set to your client’s preferences. Some customers want a soft, subtle effect; others want something bold. Synthetic lashes are common because of their consistency and lower cost, but real mink hair and silk options are available.

• Adhesives and removers: Adhesives keep lashes in place, so choose an option known for its durability, gentle odor, and minimal irritation. The right adhesive is safe to use near the eyes and can last several weeks. You’ll also need a remover that dissolves the adhesive so you can correct mistakes or remove the lashes.

• Tweezers and application tools: Precision tweezers help you isolate each natural lash as well as position and secure the extension. Have at least two or three pairs of tweezers in different shapes, including a curved option for volume fans and a straight option for classic applications.

• Under-eye pads and tape: These pads that go under the eyes keep lower lashes out of the way and protect the skin. Gentle tape can help manage any stray hairs that might interfere with application.

• Hygiene and sanitation supplies: Cleanliness is nonnegotiable. Proper sanitation keeps you compliant with industry standards and protects clients. Stock up on disinfectants that are approved for use in the industry. You’ll need sanitizing products to wipe down your tweezers and workstation, along with disposable items such as cotton swabs and spoolies.

• Lighting and magnification: Adequate lighting prevents eye strain and helps you place lashes correctly. A ring light or lamp with adjustable brightness is popular among lash artists. Some find magnifying glasses or specialized eyewear helpful, especially if they’re working on finer details.

• Comfortable seating and bed or chair: Clients can be with you for up to two hours while you apply a full set. A massage table or reclining chair helps customers stay comfortable, and an adjustable stool or chair helps you maintain good posture while you work.

• Branding materials: At a minimum, consider keeping printed business cards or small postcards that outline aftercare instructions. Having a few brand-building touches ready (e.g., a simple Instagram handle displayed near your workstation) can help you stay top of mind.

Over time, you’ll figure out which adhesives, lash types, and lighting options you like best. If you plan to expand, you might add advanced products such as colored lashes and specialized volume fans. Practice with the fundamentals until you can deliver consistent results that clients love.

What are the legal requirements for a lash business?

It’s tempting to start booking clients immediately once you’ve sharpened your technique, but there are rules to follow in the beauty industry. Your local government might have requirements about licensing, certification, and safety protocols. Each region can be different, so check your local regulations. Here are a few common requirements:

• Business registration: Pick a business structure that works for you, whether that’s a sole proprietorship, a corporation, or a limited liability company (LLC). Tax requirements and liabilities might vary depending on what you choose. Consult with an accountant or lawyer if you need more guidance.

• Cosmetology or aesthetician license: Some regions require a license that covers lash extension work. Check whether your local authority requires an aesthetician or cosmetology license or an eyelash extensions specialist license. Some states might require you to perform your services only in a licensed facility.

• Specific lash certification: Even if your region doesn’t strictly require a separate lash certification, it’s often helpful to complete a lash extension course. You’ll build credibility, and you’ll learn about safety and best practices in a structured environment.

• Health department guidelines: Many governments have sanitation and safety requirements for salons. If you’re running a home-based lash business, some jurisdictions might require you to operate in a dedicated space with a separate entrance.

• Insurance: Working near the eyes carries risk. Liability insurance can shield you from potential issues. A solid insurance policy helps protect you and your business.

By following licensing and legal steps, you demonstrate that you’re serious about operating responsibly and will be confident about welcoming clients. They will appreciate the commitment to legitimate practices, particularly because you work on such a delicate area of the body.

How do you find clients for your lash business?

To grow your lash business, you need to build your client base. That involves increasing online visibility, making connections, and gaining attention through word of mouth. Lash services are visual, so it’s easier to show off your work than in other fields. Here are a few ways to find clients:

• Instagram and other social media platforms: Beauty services rely heavily on images to promote themselves on platforms such as Instagram. Consistency matters more than complicated social media strategies, so post a few times a week with relevant tags to draw local users. You can show off your technique and gain attention through before-and-after shots and short videos or reels. You can also share behind-the-scenes views of your workplace or talk about aftercare tips. Ensure your contact details (e.g., email address, booking site, phone number) are front and center.

• Local partnerships: Connecting with nearby salons or spas can lead to more traffic. If a hair salon doesn’t have a resident lash artist, maybe they’ll refer clients to you. Some lash artists strike deals with hairstylists or nail technicians to display business cards or give small discounts to new referrals. You can team up with boutique clothing stores or makeup artists for cross-promotion. Face-to-face introductions sometimes spark long-lasting industry relationships.

• Word-of-mouth referrals: A client who’s thrilled with their lash set is often the best advertisement. That’s why it’s smart to create a comfortable, memorable experience from beginning to end. If you keep your space tidy, greet clients warmly, and maintain a genuine interest in their style preferences, they’ll be more likely to tell friends about you. Friendly gestures—such as a discount for loyal customers or a small courtesy item (e.g., a lash spoolie, an aftercare card)—can make them feel valued.

• Community events: Some lash artists visit local markets or beauty shows and set up a table display. Offering quick consultations or mini lash demonstrations can help you give potential customers a chance to see your expertise live. If you learn of a self-care or wellness event, consider joining. Add a few visuals, such as a photo album of your work, to grab the attention of passersby.

• Online reviews: A single five-star review can persuade someone to try your services. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google or social media. Whether you work from a dedicated salon suite or a home studio, positive feedback can help you stand out from others in the area.

What are the best ways to accept payments?

Whether you run a fancy spa or cozy home studio, you should offer a modern, convenient payment experience. Customers appreciate convenience and speed at checkout, and offering easy payment options can encourage repeat bookings. Card payments are necessary, and it’s a good idea to accept cash—if you’re comfortable handling it. Mobile point-of-sale systems let you accept cards in person through compact card readers that connect to your phone or tablet. You can carry the reader with you if you hold on-site events.

Many lash entrepreneurs also use Stripe for quick, safe checkout experiences. Clients can pay via card or digital wallet, and you can create and send a payment link to customers in advance. If you have a website, you might integrate Stripe so clients can prepay or place a deposit at the time of booking.

How do you price lash services?

You should adjust your pricing to account for the cost of supplies, the time it takes to create a set, and the standard rates for lash services in your region. If you notice your schedule is fully booked and you have a waitlist, that’s sometimes a sign you can increase your prices. If your overhead increases, adjust accordingly. Communicate these changes with clients to build confidence. They’ll understand if your prices shift as long as you provide consistent, high-quality work.

Here’s how to set prices as you start out:

• Consider your hourly rate: One quick way to figure out a price is to decide what your time is worth per hour. Then, add the cost of materials for each set. If a classic lash set takes two hours and your supplies add a small amount to your out-of-pocket expenses, set a rate that accounts for time and costs.

• Factor in overhead: Your pricing should cover rent, insurance, licensing fees, and marketing expenses. Even small costs such as spoolies and under-eye pads matter over the long run.

• Research local competitors: Check how much other lash artists or salons in your area charge. Position your rates in a way that feels fair for the quality and experience you provide. If you’re new, you might start slightly lower, then raise your prices as you gain more expertise.

• Create tiered services: Many lash artists create packages such as “Classic Lash Set,” “Volume Lash Set,” and “Extra Glam.” Each tier might have a distinct price based on complexity. This can give clients a sense of choice.

• Decide on fill prices: Lash fills are a large part of your service. When clients return for maintenance, what’s the price range, and how does it change if they wait longer than recommended? Create clear guidelines on fill policies so clients know what to expect.

What challenges do lash businesses face, and how can you overcome them?

Starting a lash business isn’t always as simple as handing out business cards and waiting for people to show up. Certain obstacles can surface, especially early. Being aware of these challenges helps you prepare and respond proactively.

• Time management: A classic lash set can take 90 minutes to 2 hours—and sometimes longer. Volume sets can take up to three hours. Finding time in your calendar can be tricky when you’re also in charge of inventory, administrative tasks, and marketing. Carve out specific blocks in your week for ordering supplies, cleaning your space, and handling social media posts so you don’t get overwhelmed, and use simple scheduling apps that let clients book online. That frees you from answering endless text messages about availability.

• Inconsistent bookings: Demand for lash extension services can fluctuate. Certain times of the year (e.g., summer, holidays) might be very busy, while other months can feel slow. Weather, vacations, and economic factors can all affect appointments. During slower periods, offer special packages or a referral incentive, or encourage existing clients to try a new style of lash set. If you have extra time, invest it in marketing or skill development, such as learning a fresh application technique.

• Eye sensitivity and allergies: Working around someone’s eyes is risky. Some clients might be extra sensitive to adhesives or experience watering and irritation during the appointment. A small segment of people might experience allergic reactions that require immediate lash removal. Always conduct a patch test on new clients if they’re concerned about sensitivity, use high-quality and tested adhesives, and keep a gentle remover within reach. Taking extra precautions protects your clients and signals that you’re looking out for their well-being.

• Pricing pressure: Some lash artists start by pricing too low, hoping to attract a full schedule instantly. But this strategy can backfire. If your rates don’t cover costs or your time commitment, you might burn out or lose motivation. But if your pricing is too expensive and your skill set or local reputation isn’t strong enough, that can push away potential clients. Calculate your expenses and available time carefully to find a reasonable price point and stay confident in your work. If a prospective client balks at your rate, that might mean they’re not the right fit. But many are willing to pay for expertise and strong results.

• Expansion beyond a solo setup: As your lash business grows, you might hit a point where it’s too much for one person to handle. You’ll have to consider whether to hire another lash artist or perhaps rent a bigger space. That transition means paying for legal contracts, training, and more overhead. Track your bookings and revenue consistently, and look for patterns: maybe you’re turning away appointments or working too many hours. That’s often a sign you need a second set of hands or a small salon suite. Consider the pros and cons before you decide, and talk to other business owners who made a similar move.