The eyelash extension industry has boomed over the past few years and has continued to rise in popularity. The trends in the beauty industry are constantly evolving, but eyelash extensions are going to stay for a quite while. Starting an eyelash extensions business has a bright future because of its increasing demand… and it’s far from a fad. Get everything you need to start your eyelash extensions business here and continue reading to learn how lucrative this industry can be for you and how to get started.
1. Research State Requirements
Different states have different requirements to start an eyelash extensions business, so make sure to your research. Some states require that you have a cosmetology or an esthetician license to perform eyelash extensions services, others will grant you a license based on the years you’ve been practicing, and others don’t require a license at all! The best way to find out your state’s requirements is to contact your state licensing board by checking out their website or giving them a phone call.
2. Determine Your Startup Costs
Some of your startup costs may include:
- Eyelash course and certifications: These can vary widely in price, but the price is usually correlated with the quality.
- Business registration and license: Fees for this vary depending on your state, but are usually several hundred dollars.
- Business insurance: This is a MUST HAVE for all artists, especially because you are performing an intimate service on people’s eyes. Costs on business insurance can also vary and are typically a small monthly fee.
- Equipment:
- Eyelash extension table
- Large ring light
- Hydraulic lash stool
- Lash cart organizer and cart
- Ergonomic lash pillow
- Lash bed topper and blanket
- Studio decor
- Supplies (lashes, tweezers, adhesive, etc.)
3. Figure Out Ongoing Monthly Costs
Your costs might include:
- Rental space (if you want your own studio versus operating out of a home studio)
- Overhead costs (electric, advertising/marketing, accounting software, etc.)
- Ongoing supply costs (lashes, adhesive, etc.)
These can potentially cost several thousand dollars, so you need to ask yourself: do you have the capital to start the business now? Or can you take out a loan? Borrow money from family? Or fundraise?
4. Discover Your Potential Income
To start a successful eyelash extensions business, or any business for that matter, you need to research local businesses and learn their pricing in order to help you set and achieve your desired income. Start by figuring out how much your local eyelash technicians charge per eyelash set. Next determine how many sets you can offer per day/week to determine how much you can make per month.
Subtract your projected income with your projected ongoing monthly costs to determine your potential income. Then ask yourself if the potential income outweighs the risk. If it does, then it makes sense to take the next step.
5. Learn To Do Professional Lashing
You probably already know how to do eyelashes, but it’s always good to touch up on your skills to ensure a good start to your career. You can register for a reputable online or in person course, just make sure to do thorough research to find the right educator, because the wrong techniques may cost you your career!
Every eyelash extension artist has a different style. Find someone who specializes in what you want to become an expert in such as straight line sets, mega volume, or wispy sets, and learn from them specifically. It’s better to be known as an eyelash extensions specialist that does a particular style really well, other than performing general lash services.
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing the perfect instructor is their teaching style. Do you gel with their personality? Do they provide a certificate that you can display and is it widely recognized? Do they offer ongoing support after the course is over? What is the time frame of their course? Find a course and instructor that works around your schedule and needs.
6. Set Up Your Eyelash Studio
Your lash studio setup is the first chance you get to impress your clients and showcase your brand. You want it to be comfortable and inviting, but prior to that, the first choice you need to make is if you want to start your business in your home or rent a beauty salon, both have equal pros and cons.
If you decide to start a home studio, you get to set your own hours and have zero commute. However, you’re also in charge of everything including setting up appointments, cleaning up, and promoting your business.
If you decide to rent a beauty salon, depending on the amenities it comes with, you may not have to maintain your workplace, promote your studio, or even book your appointments. Plus you’ll have a community of other lash artists which can make the work day a lot more fun. However, you’ll have to work within the studio’s hours which doesn’t offer as much flexibility.
7. Market Your New Business
It’s time to promote your new eyelash extensions business and get some clients! It’s good to set up a referral program right off the bat so that you can double your promotion efforts immediately. Another idea is to get your clients to agree to dual promotion where you show off your work on your social media channels and they share their new eyelash set on theirs for a coupon the next time they come in. You could also launch your business by working with a select handful of local influencers. Whatever ways you choose, just make sure to be creative and strategic with your promotions!
Conclusion
Eyelash extensions have taken the beauty industry by storm, are you ready to jump onboard? Now that you know the exact steps and how to proceed, go ahead and start that business you’ve been dreaming of. Remember to get your gorgeous eyelash extension supplies at the most affordable prices when you purchase them wholesale. Good luck and you got this!
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