If you've ever asked yourself, “Is doing lashes good money?” you’re not alone. Every lash artist I know has wondered about this, whether they're brand new or dreaming of owning a full lash salon.
The honest answer? Yes, it absolutely can be. But let's keep it real: it’s not as simple as just applying pretty sets and waiting for the cash to roll in. It takes a smart strategy, effective pricing, efficient scheduling, targeted marketing, and delivering an exceptional experience to every client who walks through your door.
At Prolong Lash, we’re all about helping lash artists turn their passion into a profitable, sustainable lash business. Let’s break down what drives a solid lash artist's salary and how you can make sure your business is truly profitable.
Lash Artist Salary: What Can You Really Make?
Firstly, let’s get the big question out of the way: “Is lash business profitable?” Well, it depends on how you run it. But if you’re strategic and professional, there’s solid money to be made.
Here’s what you might realistically expect as an hourly rate at different stages:
- New artists: $40–$60 per hour (usually part-time or building that client base)
- Experienced solo artists: $80–$150 per hour
- Premium salons or top-tier artists: $150–$300+ per set
These aren’t just random numbers they reflect the real variation you see across the industry. But they’re not guaranteed. A lash artist's salary depends on several things:
- Your skill level and ongoing training
- Location and local demand
- How you price your services
- How well you retain your clients
- Extra income from retail sales (like selling Prolong Lash Cleanser!)
- How innovative you are with the service offerings
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth. Cheap pricing doesn’t build loyalty, it just burns you out and undercuts your value.
Is Lash Business Profitable?
The answer is yes, if you charge what you’re worth and keep a close eye on your expenses. Here’s something that doesn’t get talked about enough: it’s not just about what you make, it’s about what you keep. A healthy income can vanish fast if you’re not on top of your expenses.
Think about everything you’ll need to budget for in your lash salon:
- Rent, utilities, and insurance
- Supplies: adhesives, lash trays, disposables
- Retail stock like Prolong Lash Cleanser
- Marketing and website costs
- Ongoing training and certifications
These aren’t “nice to haves,” they’re essentials. But with good planning and careful tracking, they don’t have to eat your profit.
Pro Tip: Know your numbers. Track every expense. Don’t assume you’re making a profit plan for it.
Charge What You’re Worth (Seriously!)
Now, let’s have a real talk: far too many talented lash artists undercharge because they want to “compete” on price. I get it! Especially when you’re new or there’s lots of competition nearby.
But here’s what happens when you set your prices too low:
- You end up overworking yourself for minimal return.
- Clients see you as the “cheap option” instead of the skilled professional you are.
- You can’t afford to reinvest in high-quality supplies or advanced training.
- Your time, experience, and artistry are valuable. If you want a truly profitable lash business, your rates need to reflect that.
Pro Tip: Confident pricing doesn’t scare away clients; it attracts the right ones who respect your work.
Work Smarter, Not Harder: Master Your Booking Game
Let’s talk scheduling. Is doing lashes good money? Sure, but not if your calendar is a chaotic mess that leaves you exhausted.
Here’s how to work smarter, not harder:
- Use online booking systems to save yourself endless back-and-forth messages.
- Require deposits to reduce no-shows and protect your time.
- Space appointments to ensure you’re never rushed, while maintaining quality and hygiene.
- Avoid cramming too many clients into one day. Burnout doesn’t help your bottom line.
When you manage your schedule well, you’re not just making money, you’re preserving your sanity and delivering better service.
Pro Tip: Your time is your biggest asset. Treat it that way.
Make Client Experience Your Superpower
If you really want to answer “Is lash business profitable?” with a big YES, you need to focus on one thing above all: retention.
Clients don’t just come back for lashes. They come back for you, how you make them feel, how you treat them, and the trust you build.
Here’s what keeps them loyal:
A clean, welcoming, professional environment.
Top-notch hygiene standards (yes, that means cleansing with Prolong Lash Cleanser every single time).
- Personalized consultations that show you care.
- Friendly, respectful, non-gossipy conversation.
- Teaching them proper aftercare so their lashes last longer.
These aren’t just “extras,” they’re the foundation of a business that clients rave about to their friends.
Pro Tip: Great service = loyal clients = consistent income.
Boost Profits with Retail Sales
Let’s talk about one of the easiest ways to increase your lash salon income without working more hours: selling retail.
I know some artists feel awkward about this. But you’re not being “salesy.” You’re being a professional who genuinely cares about your clients’ results.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Stock professional-grade aftercare like Prolong Lash Cleanser.
- Educate clients on the importance of professional cleansers (for better retention and healthier lashes).
- Offer ready-to-go aftercare kits for new clients.
- Position yourself as the go-to expert who has their best interests at heart.
Retail isn’t just extra cash; it’s an essential part of complete, professional service.
Pro Tip: Your clients will thank you for making their lash care easy.
Market Yourself Like the Pro You Are
Even if you’re the best lash artist in town, you can’t grow your lash business if no one knows you exist.
Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. Focus on these essentials:
- Share beautiful before-and-after photos on social media.
- Show behind-the-scenes peeks to build trust and personality.
- Encourage clients to leave glowing Google reviews.
- Keep your branding consistent and professional.
Highlight your use of quality products like Prolong Lash Cleanser so clients know you only use the best.
Pro Tip: Being visible means being booked. Don’t stay the industry’s best-kept secret.
Think Like a Business Owner
Finally, if you want to make really good money in your lash salon, you have to think like a business owner, not just a lash artist.
Here’s what that means:
- Set clear income goals and review them regularly.
- Track your income and expenses religiously.
- Plan for growth, whether that’s training in new styles or eventually hiring staff.
- Stay on top of trends so your skills stay in demand.
- Build a recognizable, trusted brand that clients love.
Owning a lash business isn’t just about artistry; it’s about running a real business, and finding yourself a business mentor could be one of the best things you can do.
Pro Tip: With the right support, you’re more than capable of doing it!
So... Is Doing Lashes Good Money? You Bet If You Do It Right
Owning a lash salon can be one of the most rewarding, profitable careers out there.
Here’s the honest roadmap:
- Charge what you’re worth.
- Control your expenses and manage your time.
- Deliver exceptional client experiences consistently.
- Focus on retention and referrals.
- Boost retail sales with trusted products like Prolong Lash Cleanser.
- Market yourself with confidence.
- Formally plan for your future and salon growth
At Prolong Lash, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from our professional-grade cleansers to business advice and inspiration.
Tell us in the comments: What’s your biggest challenge in growing your lash business? Let’s chat and support each other on the journey!
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