Lash Technician

From doll eyes and cat eyes to natural and classic, there’s a whole world of lash styles out there – and with it, a world of opportunity for aspiring lash technicians. With this highly specialized skill, lash technicians apply semi-permanent extensions to clients’ natural eyelashes to enhance length, thickness, and curl. A typical full-set service takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, while refills can take 45 minutes to an hour. During this meticulous process, eyelash extensions are attached individually to each natural lash, requiring a high level of patience, precision, and attention to detail.

A job that combines creative flair for aesthetics with strong customer relationship-building, lash techs create unique, personalized looks based on the client’s eye shape, natural lashes, and desired outcome. The job also offers flexibility – many lash techs are self-employed and can set their own schedules. Lash techs can work from home, open their own studio, offer mobile services, or work in an established spa, salon, or lash and brow bar.

Becoming a lash technician requires successful completion of a certificate program that covers the necessary knowledge and skills to safely apply eyelash extensions. Many Canadian beauty schools offer eyelash extension training courses designed to enable students to start their careers.

Many esthetician programs also cover lash extensions as part of the curriculum, or they can be supplementary courses students can take after receiving their cosmetology or esthetics licence. Estheticians with the appropriate training or certification can offer lash extension services as part of their broader menu of services.

Lash technician programs typically cover both the theoretical and practical side of lash extensions. Students learn eyelash anatomy and how to determine eye shapes; lash preparation, application, and styling; sanitation and infection control; products and tools; and customer service. On the job, lash techs do client consultations, assess their eye shape and understand their preferences; apply eyelash extensions following proper techniques and safety protocols; educate clients on aftercare; and recommend appropriate products.

In recent years, eyelash extensions have been popularized by celebrities and social media influencers, leading to growing demand for lash technicians.