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Starting a Lash Business: Everything You Need to Know to Succeed

Thinking about turning your passion for lashing into a thriving business? You're not alone and you're in the right place. The lash industry is booming, with no signs of slowing down. From side hustle to full-blown lash empires, starting a lash business can be one of the most rewarding moves you'll ever make. But like any career goal, it takes strategy, skill, and a whole lot of heart.

So, whether you're freshly certified or daydreaming of your own studio, this guide is here to walk you through everything you need to get started, and most importantly, succeed.

Is Starting a Lash Business Right for You?

Let’s talk about the perks. Owning your own lash business means you set your schedule, choose your own clients, and let your creativity shine with every set alongside the guest experience you provide. You’re not just lashing, you’re building a brand that’s uniquely you. There's real income potential here too! Done right, lash artists can earn six figures annually.

But here’s the tea: it’s not all fluff and fans. Running a lash business can mean long hours, the occasional no-show, and learning to juggle marketing, finances, and client care. It’s a one-woman (or man) show at first, and the hustle is real.

Traits of successful lashpreneurs? Detail-oriented, driven, and always learning. Oh, and a little sparkle never hurts.

Get Licensed and Certified

Before you pick up those tweezers, make sure you’re doing it legally. Each state has its own licensing requirements, so check out our State Licensure Resource to find out what’s required in your area.

What’s the difference between certification and licensure? A license is your legal permission to perform lash services, while certification shows you've been trained in a specific technique or with a specific brand (like ours at Borboleta!). You'll need both to build credibility and skills. Investing in a reputable training program is one of the best ways to boost your artistry and grow business.

Create a Business Plan

A solid plan = your blueprint for success. Start by getting clear on:

What services you’ll offer (Classic, Hybrid, Volume, Mega, education courses?)
Who your dream client is (students? brides? busy moms, college students?)
How much it’ll cost to get going (supplies, licensing, rent)
What your break even point is and how you can start profiting

Decide on your setup too! Will you start solo from a home studio? Rent a salon suite? Go big and launch your own lash lounge? Each has its pros, just make sure it matches your goals.

Legal Setup and Business Structure

Time to make it official.

Choose your structure: Sole Proprietorship, LLC, or S-Corp? (Most lash artists start with an LLC.)
Register your business name.
Apply for your EIN (like a social security number for the business).
Open a business bank account.

Don’t forget insurance! Lash and beauty insurance is a must to protect yourself and your guests. Are you a member of the ALA? Use code 'BORBY25' for 25% off the annual membership and to receive recommendations and discounts for insurance companies.

Setting Up Your Lash Space

Whether it’s a chic corner in your apartment or a luxe studio downtown, your lash space sets the tone.

Choose your vibe: Home studio (low cost), suite rental (privacy), or salon (visibility)? If you are going the home studio route, just make sure you are following all your state regulations with having an at home business. Most states require a separate entrance and/or a dedicated bathroom for your guests, separate than your living quarters.

Your setup checklist: Lash bed, lighting, adhesive storage, tweezers, pre-treatment + primer, lash care/retail products, client safety forms, and aftercare instructions.

Pro tip: Always stock high-quality lash supplies to ensure safety, comfort, and most important, perfect retention. Sign up for BorboletaPro+ to receive a guaranteed 20% professional products and 50% retail products, every time.

Pricing Your Services

Pricing can feel intimidating, but don’t sell yourself short. You’re offering a luxury service that requires serious skill.

Research local rates to find your baseline.
Set different prices for Classic, Hybrid, Volume, and Mega sets.
Don’t forget fills—these keep your books (and bank account) full.
Create loyalty-building packages (like bundle fill pricing or referral discounts).

And yes, it’s okay to raise your prices as your skill and demand grow.

Building a Brand That Stands Out

Time to bring your brand to life! Your name, logo, colors, tone - these all shape how people feel about your business and the experience they have.

Pick a memorable name that reflects you and your vibe
Design a logo that feels luxe, fun, or totally YOU!
Choose your brand voice: Are you glam? Warm and welcoming? Clinical-chic?

Consistency is queen when it comes to trust and client experience.

Marketing Your Lash Business

It’s not just what you do, it’s how you share it.

Instagram is your portfolio and networking tool. Use it to show off your work, share client reviews, and connect with local guests.
Claim your Google Business Profile so people can actually find you.
Offer referral rewards to grow fast without ads.
Ask for reviews! It builds trust faster than any ad ever could.

Want to level up? Try email and text marketing to remind guests about fills, new availability or lashcare product spotlights.

Booking Systems and Client Management

Keeping your business organized = less stress and better service.

Booking software like Vagaro, Square, or GlossGenius can help manage:

Online booking and payment
Client profiles and notes
Cancellations and reminders

Be upfront with policies (late fees, deposits, cancellation windows) to protect your time. Time is $$!

Growing and Scaling Your Business

Ready to go from solo lash artist to lash boss?

Start retailing lash-safe products like Lash Bath, Seal + Style, or Lash Serum to boost your income.
Offer mentoring or teach workshops.
Hire help! A receptionist, assistant, or another lash artist to scale your studio.
Expand your menu to include facials, brows, or waxing when you’re ready.

Starting a lash business isn’t just a career move, it’s a power move. You get to create beauty, create connections, and build a life you love. It takes hustle, heart, and the right tools.

Want to level up your skills? Explore Borboleta Education

Need reliable, pro-quality lash supplies? Shop lashes, lash glue, and more!

From your first lash lift to your dream lash studio, we’re here for the whole glow-up. Have questions or need support? Contact us at - support@borboleta.com