How to Become a Lash Technician

Want to know what it takes to become a lash technician?

Learn more about this position today, including the necessary skills, qualifications and experience.

A lash technician applies semi-permanent eyelashes extensions on top of the client’s natural eyelashes. Many customers see a lash technician to increase the volume of their eyelashes, to create a more dramatic look without the need for mascara. Eyelash extensions are a long-lasting alternative to eye makeup and are more likely to stay on than false eyelashes that are available for home use. An eyelash technician will seat their client in a comfortable environment and should apply the extensions within three hours.

They will typically follow this procedure to apply lashes:

1. Cleanse both eyes
2. Use makeup remover if there is any makeup present
3. Instruct the client to keep eyes closed for the entire procedure
4. Surgically tape the lower lashes to skin as to avoid gluing natural lashes to the upper lashes
5. Isolate the natural lashes with tweezers
6. Glue eyelash extensions at the top of each isolated lash

Essentially, you need to listen to what your client wants and help them achieve that. That includes advising them on aftercare, on infills/replacements and also removing the extensions if the customer’s not happy with it. However, you should also inform your client that typically, the eyelashes fall out on their own after three to four weeks.

To remove lashes, an eyelash technician will:

1. Apply lash glue remover to both eyelids and leave on for some time
2. Using tweezers or a brush, the technician will remove each lash

It’s Not a 9 to 5 Job

Eyelash technicians usually work part-time, with a constantly changing schedule. You may need to work during holidays, weekends, etc.

Growing Industry

While the industry is relatively small, it is steadily increasing, with eyelash extensions being one of the more popular areas in the beauty industry. Since many customers often return to the salon to get replacement or infills, there is a higher chance of returned business

Self-Employment is Common

Once they get their qualifications, many eyelash technicians may turn to self-employment rather than working at an already established beauty salon. Many eyelash technicians often start up a mobile service or set up shop at their own homes.

Pay is Usually an Hourly Rate

On average, a lash technician is paid $30 an hour.

• Mapping out eyelash extensions
• Removing eyelash extensions
• Advising customer of the types of eyelash extensions available to them, such as its length, type, curl, thickness, etc
• Application and styling of different eyelashes extensions (e.g. natural classic lashes, full set eyelashes, natural volume, lash lift, c curl, etc)
• Keeping work areas clean
• Carry out patch testing to check for an allergic reaction

You don’t need a formal university qualification to become a lash artist. However, because of the precise nature of the position, you will need to learn how to place false eyelashes correctly. Also, generally speaking, most employers will want you to have a certification of some kind, especially when it comes to maintaining health and safety.

You have to ensure that you don’t cause allergic reactions, swelling, or infection, considering the sensitivity of the eye area. You will also need to know about the different types of eyelash extensions and how to apply the lash glue. In other words, you will have to do some form of eyelash extension training.

There is quite a bit of flexibility when it comes to how you become qualified: you can get your certificate online, or you can go to classes in person and build up your skillset from there. There is a range of short online courses where you can study at your own pace. On average, these courses last about six weeks full-time.

Also, if you can, having experience is very appealing to potential employers. If you want to complete an online course and would like to do something in person, certain beauty salons offer workshops that provide practical experience for potential eyelashes technicians. This can also be an excellent opportunity for you to see whether or not you’d enjoy this line of work.

Time to extend your horizons?

A rewarding job or successful business as a lash technician starts with the right training.