Last updated: Jun 20, 2025

How much money does a lash tech make?

by Loreta Jasilionyte

The beauty industry is booming, and lash extensions are leading the way. According to Global Market Insights, the lash extension market will exceed $1.5 billion in 2032 and continue to grow. With more clients seeking fuller, longer lashes, the demand for skilled lash technicians has never been higher. But how much does a lash tech make a year?

In this guide, we'll look at real income figures, what influences them, and effective strategies for increasing your earnings as a lash professional.

Lash tech salary per year

So, how much do lash techs really make? Well, it depends on a few key factors, such as your location, level of experience, the number of clients you accept, and whether you work for a company or for yourself.

If you work for a salon, you can expect to earn between $30,000 and $50,000 per year, plus tips. Hourly rates typically range between $15 and $50, depending on your location and skill level.

However, if you work for yourself, whether by renting a chair, working from home, or running your own lash business, your earning potential can go way up. Many self-employed lash technicians make between $70,000 and $150,000 per year, with some earning up to $300,000, particularly in high-demand areas or when providing premium services, such as Russian volume or lash lifts.

So yeah, there’s a pretty big range, but that’s the beauty of this industry. You can really shape your income based on your goals, your hustle, and your working style.

How much do UK lash techs make?

A lash technician's salary in the United Kingdom can vary greatly, but the average annual base salary is around £24,000, according to Glassdoor.

Here are a few takeaways if you’re based in the UK:

Salaries typically range from £23,000 to £35,000 per year, with hourly rates falling between £15 and £30.
Entry-level or specialist lash techs make between £18,000 and £24,000, depending on location and clientele.
In high-paying areas like Leamington Spa, lash artists can earn up to £29.61/hour. Not bad, right?
In London and other major cities, some luxury salons charge £300–£800 per set for services like Russian volume lashes.
If you’re self-employed, your earnings can vary more. Some techs make £4/hour, especially when starting out, but with steady clients and premium pricing, others earn £20+/hour or more.

What actually makes the difference? Your expertise, marketing, reputation, and, most importantly, how well you treat your clients.

How much do US lash techs make?

A lash technician's salary in the United States varies widely, but the average base salary is around $50,000 per year, according to ZipRecruiter data.

Let’s break it down:

Most lash techs in the United States earn between $36,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on their experience, location, and pricing structure.
Hourly rates typically range from $14 to $27, with top earners making $50 or more per hour.
Entry-level technicians or those just starting out may earn around $15 per hour, but this can quickly increase as they build a loyal clientele.
In states like New York, California, and Massachusetts, average salaries are among the highest, often over $55,000/year, due to demand and higher service pricing.
High-end salons and lash studios in major cities charge anywhere from $150 to $400 per full set, and experienced independent lash artists can serve multiple clients per day.
Some six-figure lash artists mix services, retail (such as aftercare kits or lash serums), training, and even online content.

One thing to remember? Many lash technicians begin part-time and progress to full-time income as they gain speed, referrals, and confidence.

Key factors that influence a lash technician’s salary

So, how much lash techs make really depends on a few key factors, some of which you can control and others that you just have to work around. Let's go over the biggest ones:

1. Experience and skill level

As with any job, the more experience you have, the more you can charge. A beginner lash technician may start with low prices, but as your technique improves and your sets become cleaner and faster, your rates can go up (along with your confidence).

Bonus: clients tend to tip better when they love the results.

2. Location, location, location

Where you live and work has a huge impact. Lash services in big cities such as London, Los Angeles, and New York City can cost twice or three times as much as in smaller towns. Urban areas also have more clients looking for high-end services, which can increase your earnings.

3. Whether you're self-employed or employed

Running your own lash business comes with more responsibility but also higher profit potential. You set your own prices and keep more of your profits. On the flip side, working in a salon provides stability and lower overhead, but you'll most likely be paid hourly or on commission.

4. Services offered

The broader your skill set, the better. Offering advanced or premium lash sets such as Russian volume, hybrid sets, or colored lashes allows you to charge a higher rate per appointment. Add-ons such as lash lifts, brow shaping, and even selling aftercare products can significantly boost your earnings without needing additional clients.

5. Marketing and client retention

Lash technicians who build and maintain a loyal client base earn more consistently. Posting your work on Instagram or TikTok, asking satisfied customers for Google reviews, and offering referral discounts can all help to increase trust and visibility. A fully booked calendar begins with excellent visibility and strong client relationships.

How to maximize your lash tech income

Once you’ve got the basics down, the next step is to figure out how to increase your income as a lash tech. The good news? You don’t necessarily need to take on more clients; instead, you just need to get smart about how you run your business. Here’s how:

1. Upskill with advanced training

Investing in advanced lash training courses can seriously level up your earnings potential. Clients are willing to pay more for Russian volumes, hybrid sets, and other specialized techniques. Certification from a reputable brand, such as Flawless Lashes by Loreta, also fosters trust and distinguishes you from less experienced technicians.

2. Raise your prices (strategically)

If you're consistently booked weeks in advance, it might be time to bump your prices. Don't worry, loyal clients usually stick with you, especially if your work speaks for itself. Just make sure to communicate clearly and give notice ahead of price increases.

3. Sell aftercare products

Retailing cleansers, sealants, and lash serums not only benefits your clients' results, but it also provides an additional source of income with just a little effort. If you're passionate about lash health, recommending products may feel natural (and helpful).

4. Offer add-on services

Little extras for new clients, such as brow tinting, lash lifts, or patch tests, can boost your appointment value. You're already working with their eyes, so why not offer more?

5. Build a strong brand presence

Consistently posting your work online attracts new clients and helps you build a reputation. Show behind-the-scenes videos, results, and even reviews. When clients feel connected to you, they are more likely to return and refer friends.

If you’re thinking about becoming a lash tech, one of the biggest questions is: should you work at a lash salon or go solo? Both options have their perks—it really depends on your goals and lifestyle.

Choosing between a lash studio job and self-employment

As a lash technician, one major decision is whether to work in a salon or go freelance. Each path has its own vibe, so it all depends on how much flexibility you want and the type of lifestyle you seek.

Working at a lash studio

Perfect if you’re a beginner or prefer stability. The salon usually handles marketing, bookings, and supplies, so you can focus on lashing.

Pros:

Consistent client flow (no marketing stress)
Predictable income (hourly pay or commission)
Focus on lashing, not admin
Perfect for gaining experience and learning from others

Cons:

Limited schedule and pricing flexibility
Lower earning potential compared to going solo
May involve tip sharing or commission cuts

Being self-employed

This is ideal if you’re independent and love the idea of building your own lash business. But remember, it also means managing everything on your own.

Pros:

Set your own hours and rates
Keep 100% of your profits
Build your own brand and client base
Choose your space: home studio, salon chair rental, or your own lash bar

Cons:

Unpredictable income (particularly at the start)
You handle everything, including marketing, bookings, and finances
No paid holidays or sick leave

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. If you're just starting out, working in a salon can help you develop your skills and confidence. However, if you want more freedom and control, self-employment could be your next big step.