Why You Should Become a Lash Tech

If you spend any time following beauty influencers and celebrities on social media, you can’t help but see TikToks, Reels, and images of stunning eyelashes. We’re talking gorgeous lashes that are longer, fuller, and curlier thanks to the wonders of eyelash extensions and the talented people who apply them.

Maybe this has got you thinking: Should you become a lash tech? Would you be a good fit? How much money can you make?

Don’t worry! We got you.

Explore the topics below and learn about this exciting (and profitable) career path.

Table of Contents

• What exactly is a lash tech anyway?
• What are the benefits of becoming a lash tech?
• What are some signs that you’d be a good fit for this career?
• How do you become a lash tech?
• What’s the job outlook for lash techs?
• What are your next steps if you want to become a lash tech?

What exactly is a lash tech anyway?

An eyelash technician—or lash tech—is trained in applying lash extensions to a person’s natural eyelashes. The extensions enhance what’s already there, and the lashes don’t require mascara.

Professional lash extensions differ from the DIY temporary eyelashes people can buy in the drugstore. Lash extensions are semi-permanent, meaning they can last up to six weeks before needing to be completely redone. However, clients typically need a “fill” between full-application visits. These fill sessions occur every two to three weeks based on the client’s hair growth cycle.

Lash techs might also be referred to as the following . . .

• Lash artists
• Lash practitioners
• Lash professionals
• Lash specialists
• Lash stylists
• Lashologists

What are the benefits of becoming a lash tech?

Benefits to becoming a lash tech abound . . .

• Personal satisfaction. Our eyes are such a central part of who we are (the window to the soul). It’s incredible how something as seemingly simple as eyelash extensions can transform a person’s face and help them feel more confident in their appearance.
• Creativity and artistry. You’ll be able to scratch your creative itch by helping clients achieve whatever look they’re going for—flirty, natural, cinematic, sexy . . . you get the idea. If you want to expand your offering further, you can also get into complementary services, like lash lifts and brow tints.
• Excellent long-term outlook. Today, getting your lashes “done” is as normal as getting your hair or nails done. This in-demand service means skilled lash techs can expect a steady book of business. Hello, job security and solid income for years to come. (We get into the money numbers further down.)
• Tons of flexibility. You could work as an employee in a salon or spa, rent a space within a salon, or open your own lash studio. Lash techs who charge a premium rate (in the range of $500 per service) can work part-time while still making bank.

Alicia Boldosser has been working as a lash tech since 2020. She currently holds an esthetician license, cosmetology license, and educator license. She works for herself full time at Bare Canvas in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and part time doing facials at Tranquility Salon and Wellness Center, also in Carlisle.

She says you shouldn’t underestimate the creativity benefit. “Lashing really is an art, so allow your creative freedom to come through on your sets,” she says. “Being able to work towards working for yourself is a huge plus as well.”

Kari Kratt, who has been working as a lash tech for eight years, echoes Boldosser’s sentiments. Kratt is a licensed aesthetician and owner of Mint Beauty by KK in Fox Point, Wisconsin. Kratt says, “I can do dramatic or natural and completely customize the set I’m doing for each client.”

What are some signs that you’d be a good fit for this career?

Like any career path, becoming a lash tech isn’t necessarily right for everyone. But for those who are a good fit? It can be a gratifying career.

Boldosser says doing lashes takes time and patience. “I enjoy shutting the chaos and world out for those two-ish hours while lashing,” she explains. “It actually silences my brain. I know that sounds crazy. But to sit and work on our art and then show the client/guest the finished product and have them react—it really is an amazing feeling.”

Skilled lash techs must be . . .

• Well-trained and willing to stay current
• Steady and precise with their hands
• Comfortable working up close and personal with people
• Patient! Applying lashes takes training, talent, and plenty of composure.

And when you’re learning, you must have tons of perseverance. Boldosser says, “This isn’t the kind of thing you just perfect in a day. This is something that you have to practice and know that you will have a lot of bad sets before it clicks and you just get it. Taking your time is what you are supposed to do.”

Kratt says there are other signs you’d be a good fit: You’re detail-oriented, you love working on intricate tasks, and you enjoy educating clients on how to care for their lashes. 

Kratt adds that the most successful lash techs never stop learning, either.

How do you become a lash tech?

Becoming a lash tech involves specialized training—and not only in applying the products but also in vital health and safety measures. Remember, the eyes are incredibly sensitive and especially vulnerable to infections and allergic reactions.

Because lash technology is newer than other disciplines, like esthetics and cosmetology, state licensing requirements vary. Currently, only a few states have a stand-alone license for eyelash extensions. In most states, you’ll need either a cosmetology or esthetics license to offer this service. To become proficient in performing eyelash extensions, you could pursue an eyelash extension certification or a standalone course. Again, the requirements can vary greatly depending on the state where you want to practice.

If you’re interested in becoming a lash tech, your best bet is to check with your state’s licensing board or ask about licensing requirements when talking to beauty school admissions counselors.

What’s the job outlook for lash techs?

Thanks to influencers and innovation, the eyelash extension market is booming. Last year, it was valued at over 1.1 billion, and it’s projected to grow to 2 billion by 2032.

That’s A LOT of lash work, which means skilled lash techs will be in growing demand.

As for how much money you can make . . .

According to Salary.com, the average salary for an eyelash specialist is $56,015 (as of Q1 2024), with a range between $49,000 and $63,500.

Remember, ranges and averages are just that. Depending on a lash tech’s location, skill level, and years of experience, it is possible to make well above those ranges.

Using simple math to demonstrate this point, let’s say a lash tech charges $125 for lash extensions. If the lash artist sees four clients daily, five days a week, the yearly revenue will be $130,000. Keep in mind that’s a revenue number. If you’re working as an independent lash artist, you’ll also have business expenses, like supplies and taxes. And if you’re an employee, you’ll have a set hourly wage.

But considering that studies show the average cost of lash extensions in the US is $100 to $500 per session, the fabulous income potential is there.

What are the next steps if you want to become a lash tech?

If you already have your cosmetology or esthetician license, contact your state’s licensing board to understand its requirements for offering lash services.

You’ll likely want more training to feel confident and proficient in providing this service. In this case, an eyelash extension certification or standalone course would be a good thing to consider. Check with the beauty school you attended to see what it offers. More and more schools are using Milady’s comprehensive eyelashes curriculum, which makes learning this exciting discipline straightforward and fun.

If you don’t have your license yet, the next step is to research beauty school programs. The Career of Possibilities area on our website has some great resources. The articles below will get you started.

• Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Career Should You Choose
• All Your Beauty School Questions, Answered
• Fact vs. Fiction: 6 Common Misconceptions About Beauty School

Whatever career path you decide to follow—cosmetologist, esthetician, lash artist—we wish you much success on your journey.