For aspiring lash technicians, the allure of the eyelash business extends far beyond financial gain. It’s a journey marked by creativity, artistry, and the gratification of enhancing clients’ natural beauty. Yet, amidst the passion and excitement, questions about profitability linger. Is eyelash business profitable, and is it truly a viable career path? In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the financial landscape of the eyelash industry, offering insights and guidance tailored to the aspirations of lash technicians seeking to thrive in this dynamic field.
Is Eyelash Business Profitable?
The eyelash market has expanded significantly in recent years, but it is crucial to remember that every business has different outcomes. An eyelash business can be successful when it is generally well managed. Let’s look at the data collected from Giovanni Lashes’ report on how the profitability of national lash businesses in the United States has varied throughout the years:
The US market for eyelashes generated about $206.4 million in sales in 2017. The market’s revenues rose to $269.7 million in 2018. The global market for fake eyelashes is expected to reach 1.6 billion dollars by 2025, according to Grand View Research, Inc.’s latest report.
In 2018, there were more than $1 billion in sales of fake eyelashes worldwide. For the next two years, the natural eyelash extension market will likely increase at least 5% annually, while the individual fake eyelash market will likely continue to grow at least 6% annually.
Beauty establishments normally provide lash extension services. In America, there are more than 52,000 estheticians working in close to 80,000 beauty shops and eyelash salons. What is important to note is that starting a lash extension salon can cost between $30,000 and $60,000, with an average of around $40,000.
In the U.S.A., more than 40 million pairs of eyelashes are consumed every month, according to Giovanni Eyelash Factory, and the number has been rising. False eyelashes, like lipstick, are becoming essential gifts and cosmetics for a growing number of consumers.
Why?
The demand for eyelash services and products remains consistently high, particularly in urban areas and among younger demographics. As long as there is a desire for enhanced beauty and self-expression, there will be a market for eyelash-related offerings. And unlike some beauty treatments that require infrequent visits, eyelash extensions typically require maintenance every few weeks. This recurring need for touch-ups ensures a steady stream of income for lash technicians and salon owners.
Challenges and Considerations
There are several factors that can affect the profitability of an eyelash business. It is necessary to regularly assess and adapt to the following factors to ensure the profitability, and success of your eyelash business:
1. Where It Is Located
Your eyelash business’ success is significantly influenced by where it is located. A property providing eyelash extensions in a busy area is more likely to get clients than one in a quiet neighborhood. If you are short on funds, you can look at the digital market.
In case you really do not have enough money, you can build an eyelash extensions website, start small, and work from home if you don’t mind. Most people start a home-based eyelash extension business with very little capital.
Read more: A must-have in your lash room – how to have a lash room set up?
2. Healthy Competition
The lash business is extremely competitive, as is the rest of the cosmetic sector. It’s critical to distinguish yourself from the competition by offering exclusive customer service, as well as premium lashes.
Staying updated on the latest industry trends and innovations can give your lash business a competitive edge. New and trendy eyelash styles or incorporating innovative technology can even attract more customers and set your business apart from those of your competitors.
3. Marketing Strategies
Effective marketing and branding efforts can impact the profitability of an eyelash business. Developing a strong brand identity, creating a professional website, using social media platforms, and implementing targeted marketing campaigns help attract new customers, and increase brand visibility to a good extent.
4. Pricing Management
Setting competitive and reasonable prices for your eyelash services is vital. It’s essential to consider factors like the cost of materials, labor, overhead expenses, and market demand when determining your pricing strategy. Offering different pricing tiers or packages can also help attract a wider range of potentially loyal customers.
>> Read more: How To Tell Customers About Price Increase?
5. Customer Satisfaction
Building a loyal customer base is key to the long-term profitability of any business. Offering exceptional customer service, maintaining clean, comfy surroundings, and offering promotions or loyalty programs can help increase customer satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
How To Start Eyelash Business In 2024
There are things to bear in mind when starting your own eyelash business in 2024. Conduct thorough market research to understand the demand for eyelash products and services in your target area. Identify your target customers, analyze the competition, and determine the potential profitability of the business. Here is the plan that any potential entrepreneurs can follow for their potentially profitable eyelash businesses:
Step 1: Look for a location and secure funding
Will you work at a mobile lash studio, a mall, or from home? You’ll gain an understanding of your customers and spending as a result. Aim for initial expenses that will last at least six months. Use your funds, consult your loved ones, or contact your neighborhood credit union. Grants and loans are offered to startups, so prepare your budget and payback plan, as well.
Step 2: Develop your distinguishing brand names
Create a separate credit card and bank account for your business to prevent your revenue and expenses from affecting your personal finances, which will assist in defining your own business. Create a logo at the beginning, select your interior design aesthetic, and most importantly, have fun. A fantastic place to find inspiration is Pinterest, as you might ask.
Read more: Lash Business Names Ideas – We Have Advice For You
Step 3: Create a smart strategic marketing plan
Create a logo, your website, and social media sites, and contact neighborhood organizations. You’d better also get support from your loved ones. Remember to fill up the details for your Google My Business account and upload images to help people discover you. Connecting with customers and boosting your reviews are other ways that software for running a lash business can be useful.
Step 4: Create software for your eyelash business
Easy online booking, scheduling, inventory management, payment acceptance, and quick feedback are all possible, saving time, money, and worry. Shop around for the best prices since different businesses offer a variety of equipment and fees.
Step 5: Find staff for training and suppliers for goods
Make a list of the personnel you need, any specialized training, course certificates, or talents you need, and then post job ads on regional employment sites. Allow ample time before the start of the season to familiarize and train your team.
Materials you need to order depend on the staff you will have and the services you’ll provide, so double-check your strategy. And be sure to spend time investigating the costs and salons around to discover what different providers have to offer their customers.