Opening an eyelash business in the US can be a very lucrative business. The beauty sector is still on the rise, and eyelash extensions, strip lashes, and accessories are in great demand. With careful planning, you can open your eyelash business successfully and earn a steady income.
In this guide, we will explain everything you would like to know about starting a successful eyelash business.
Why Start an Eyelash Business?
The eyelash business is on the rise. Market research says that international false eyelashes will touch $2 billion by 2028. Eyelash services and products are rapidly gaining popularity with beauty enthusiasts, influencers, and professionals.
Running an eyelash business has multiple advantages:
✅ High Demand: Eyelash extensions, strip lashes, and other allied beauty services are in vogue.
✅ Low Startup Costs: Depending on your business model, you can begin small at little cost. You can start with as low as $1000
✅ Flexible Business Options: Select between providing services, producing products, or both.
✅ Scalability: You can scale your business by introducing new products, employing personnel, or opening an online shop.
Now, let’s break down how to start an eyelass business:
Step 1: Choose Your Eyelash Business Model
There are several ways to enter the eyelash industry. Choose a model that suits your skills, budget, and goals.
1. Eyelash Extension Services
- You can offer professional eyelash extension services to clients.
- The business requires training and certification.
- Earnings: $50−$300 per client
2. False Eyelash Retail Business
- You can buy wholesale lashes and sell online (Shopify, Amazon, Etsy)
- No certification needed
- Earnings: $10−$50 per pair (50-200% profit margin)
3. Lash Extension Supplies & Training
- Sell lash glue, tweezers, and trays to lash artists
- Offer online training courses
- Earnings: $500−$5,000/month
Which one is best?
- If you love hands-on work: → Lash extensions service
- If you prefer online sales: → False eyelash retail
- If you want passive income: → Sell supplies/training
Step 2. Get Cetified and Trained
If you’re offering eyelash extension services, certification is mandatory. You need to enroll in a recognized lash training program to learn proper techniques, safety procedures, and customer care.
Best Online Lash Certification Courses
- Lashify Academy ($300-$500) – Best for beginners
- Novalash Certification ($600−$900) – Most recognized
- Borboleta Lash Training ($400−$700) – High-quality training
Why Get Certified?
- Clients trust certified lash techs
- Learn safety & proper application
- Avoid lawsuits (bad lashes can cause allergies)
Step 3. Understand the Market
The first important step before starting a lash business is to do in-depth market research in your locality. Collect as much information as possible regarding the latest trends of your target customers. Also, check out the competition from other local eyelash artists. Find out the gaps and plan your business.
Step 4. Create an Eyelash Studio Business Plan
After all the research work is done, it is time to write your business plan document. If you are starting from home without funding needs, there is no need for a long, detailed, investor-friendly business plan. Some of the issues your eyelash business plan must include are the following:
- Initial startup and recurring costs
- Equipment & Tools Required
- Target customers
- Pricing strategy
- How do you plan to sell your services?
Step 5. Name your Business
Selecting a catchy and easy-to-spell name is another important step to creating a successful eyelash business. Do remember, choosing a wrong name that does not correctly manifest your services may break your business. A properly chosen business name will not only enhance brand growth but will also fetch more customers.
Step 6. Make your Eyelash Studio Business Legally Compliant
To run a legal lash business, you need:
- Business License ($50−$150) – Register as LLC or sole proprietor
- Cosmetology License (In Some States) – Check your state rules
- Insurance ($30−$100/month) – Protects against lawsuits
- Sales Tax Permit (Free) – If selling products
States That Require a License:
- California, Texas, Florida, New York (check your state board)
Also, apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes. Finally, open a business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate.
Step 7. Set Up Your Business (Home or Salon?)
Option 1: Home-Based Lash Business
- Low Cost – No rent, work from home
- Mobile Services – Visit clients at their homes
- Online Booking – Use Square Appointments or Booksy
Option 2: Rent a Salon Space
- More professional
- Higher client trust
- Costs $500−$2,000/month
Best for beginners? Start home-based, then expand.
Step 8. Invest in Quality Supplies and Equipment
To provide the best services or products, invest in high-quality supplies.
For Eyelash Extension Services:
- Lash extensions (classic, hybrid, and volume)
- Lash adhesive
- Tweezers and tools
- Lash cleanser and primer
- Disposable applicators
- Comfortable lash bed or chair
For Selling Eyelash Products:
- Various lash styles (natural, dramatic, etc.)
- Lash glue
- Packaging materials
- Inventory management tools
Consider partnering with trusted suppliers to ensure product quality.
Step 9. Find the Best Eyelash Suppliers
Where can to buy quality lashes at wholesale prices?
Top US Eyelash Suppliers
| Supplier | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lashify | $10−$50 | Luxury lashes |
| Vendylash | $5−$30 | Cheap wholesale |
| Borboleta | $15−$60 | Professional artists |
| AliExpress | $1−$10 | Budget lashes |
Tip: Order samples first before bulk buying.
Step 10. Fix Pricing
The pricing for eyelash sessions is generally based on per set. Check with local eyelash artists and find out how much they are charging per set. While fixing pricing, consider how many sets you can offer per day and a week.
If you are providing extra facilities that others are not offering, you can go for value-based pricing. Also, while pricing your services, take into account how much you intend to earn and then set a profit margin.
Service Pricing Example:
- Classic Eyelash Extensions: $80 – $150
- Hybrid Eyelash Extensions: $100 – $200
- Volume Eyelash Extensions: $150 – $300
Product Pricing Example:
- Strip Lashes: $5 – $20 per set
- Lash Glue: $8 – $15
- Lash Care Kits: $25 – $50
You can offer discounts, loyalty programs, or package deals to attract and retain customers.
Step 11. Build an Online Presence
Creating a strong online presence is key to promoting your business.
- Create a Website: Showcase your services, prices, and contact details.
- Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are ideal for beauty businesses.
- Start a YouTube Channel: Share lash care tips, tutorials, and customer transformations.
- Leverage Influencers: Collaborate with beauty influencers to promote your products or services.
You must invest in professional photography to highlight your products and services.
Step 12. Market Your Eyelash Business
To attract clients, use a mix of online and offline marketing strategies:
- Local Advertising: Distribute flyers or business cards at salons, spas, and beauty stores.
- SEO Optimization: Ensure your website ranks for keywords like “eyelash extensions near me” or “best eyelash products.”
- Google My Business: List your business on Google to attract local customers.
- Run Promotions: Offer special discounts for new customers or referral bonuses.
Startup Costs and Income Potential
Starting an eyelash business requires an initial investment that varies depending on your chosen model.
Estimated Startup Costs:
- Eyelash Extension Business: $2,000 – $5,000
- Eyelash Product Line: $1,500 – $3,500
- Training and Certification: $500 – $1,500
- Website and Marketing: $300 – $1,000
Income Potential:
A successful eyelash business can generate $2,000 to $10,000 monthly, depending on your customer base, pricing, and marketing efforts.
FAQs about Starting an Eyelash Business
Is an eyelash business profitable?
Yes, with growing demand and low startup costs, the eyelash industry offers high profit potential.
How long does it take to become a certified lash technician?
Most certification programs take 2 to 5 days to complete. It is followed by practice hours to perfect your skills.
Can I start an eyelash business from home?
Yes, certainly, you can. Home-based lash business can reduce costs and also provide a comfortable space for clients.
What are the best suppliers for eyelash products?
Some of the popular suppliers include Lashify, Sugarlash PRO, and LivBay Lash.
How do I stand out in the eyelash industry?
Try to offer exceptional service, promote your business on social media, and build strong customer relationships.
Conclusion: Launching a profitable eyelash venture can be lucrative with dedication and proper planning. By identifying an appropriate business model, using quality materials, and promoting your services well, you can create a successful brand of eyelashes.
If beauty is your passion and you enjoy making clients confident, an eyelash venture can be a fulfilling and lucrative undertaking.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.