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How to become an eyelash technician

Eyelash technicians are more sought after than ever before as the demand for eyelash extensions continues to rise.  By shaving a few minutes off your morning routine, it’s no surprise th...

How to become an eyelash technician

Eyelash technicians are more sought after than ever before as the demand for eyelash extensions continues to rise. 

By shaving a few minutes off your morning routine, it’s no surprise that eyelash extensions have become a popular beauty treatment. With the varying types of eyelash extensions, it means people can have super natural looking lashes to extreme ‘falsies’ and anything in between. 

Becoming an eyelash technician requires training, qualifications and experience to perfect your expertise. Once you’re qualified, you can enjoy the benefits of being self-employed, working as part of a team or owning your own salon business.

What does an eyelash technician do?

Eyelash technicians are responsible for enhancing the look of an individual's natural lashes using eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions can be silk, mink or lightweight synthetic applied using a semi-permanent adhesive. 

Initially, eyelash technicians will carry out a consultation to find out what look the client would like to achieve and then provide recommendations on length, volume and curls suited to the clients face and desired end result. 

Eyelash extension length typically varies from 5mm to 18mm. It’s important to get the length right as you could damage your natural lashes or find the lashes uncomfortable.

Generally speaking, your extensions should be 3-5mm longer than your natural lashes. 

When it comes to volume, volume is achieved by applying multiple extensions to a single lash so that they become clustered together into a ‘fan’. The varying degrees of volume include 1D, 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D and 6D. 2D-4D lashes generally achieve a lighter, more natural looking eye, whereas 4D-8D creates a fuller, more dramatic look. 

There are also several curls to consider such as B-curl, C-curl, D-curl and L+ curl. 

The B-curl is the most natural looking curl. Followed by the C-curl which typically fits all types of eyes and is often the most popular curl. The D-curl is great for achieving a dramatic look and often recommended if you have naturally curly lashes. The L+ curl has a flat base and then lifts upwards making them suitable for people with hooded eyes, and lashes pointing downward and straight.

Exact responsibilities of an eyelash technician will vary, however, your responsibilities should include:

  • ensuring clients are aware of the aftercare of eyelash extensions
  • ensuring clients know how to clean their eyelash extensions 
  • maintaining healthy and safety standards
  • staying up to date with the latest makeup trends and products
  • sourcing, budgeting and ordering materials and equipment
  • managing time effectively to ensure clients eyelashes are completed on time
  • taking notes and photographs of work to keep an up-to-date portfolio of work
  • completing client record cards (paper or electronic)  after each treatment

How to become an eyelash technician?

Whilst you do not need a license to become an eyelash technician, it is important to attend training by a recognized training provider which qualifies you to become an eyelash technician.

Whilst there are many training providers to choose from, it is important to check with your insurer in the first instance to clarify whether there are any requirements they need from you to be able to offer you cover. 

Look out for courses accredited by Professional Beauty Direct or NVQ/VRQ qualifications which are ideal if you plan on becoming a self-employed eyelash technician working from home or a beauty salon owner.

Before commencing a course, ensure you are fully aware of what will be included as part of the course and what is required of you. You must ensure your course covers health and safety requirements.

How long does it take to become an eyelash technician

Many accredited training providers offer training courses for just one day. However, it is not as simple as becoming a lash technician overnight.

It takes practice to be in a position where you can charge clients for your service. Practice definitely makes perfect in this career.

How much to charge for eyelash extensions

How much you charge for eyelash extensions will vary depending on:

  • experience
  • location
  • quality of materials

Eyelash extensions can cost anywhere from £40 to £100. 

Infills you would expect to be cheaper, costing anywhere from £20-£50.

Insurance for Eyelash Technicians

Once you have developed the skills and built up your portfolio, you may be in a position where you want to become a self-employed eyelash technician or set up your own studio/salon.

Whether you’re self-employed or a salon owner, you should also look to obtain the relevant self-employed eyelash technician insurance or salon insurance which will protect you in many eventualities from injuries occurring in your care, products sold by yourself having an adverse effect or if a client falls ill as a result of your treatment.

As a self-employed eyelash technician, our insurance will cover you if you travel to third-party venues, business premises or a client’s home.
If you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 0345 605 8670 or email us at info@professionalbeautydirect.co.uk for more information.