Becoming a licensed or certified lash technician takes some training, time, and a bit of skill. If it’s been your dream to make a career out of providing long, luscious lashes – or you just want to build your beauty repertoire – keep reading. We’ve got the scoop on everything you need to know about licensed versus certified lash techs, including what sets them apart, and how to obtain each. 

Keep in mind that each state in the US will vary in their requirements for licensed versus certified lash techs. This means that you will have to consult your state website to find out which specific license or certification you’ll need to legally perform lash services – if any at all. Also note, that even if your state does not require specific licenses or certifications, certain lash businesses may require you to obtain one anyway to work at their establishment. 

What to Know About Lash Tech Certifications

So, what is a certified lash technician? And do you have to be certified to do lashes? For starters, a lash tech certification means you’ve completed specific training courses through an accredited program. In these programs, you’ll learn about lash anatomy, hygiene, and different types of lash materials. 

You may also learn application techniques and how to choose the right lashes for a client. Lash tech certifications aren’t mandatory in every state, but you may need one in lieu of a license. Without a certification, you may still be required to earn a cosmetology or esthetician license to perform lash services like lifts or tinting. 

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What to Know About Lash Tech Licenses

Lash technician licenses require successful completion of a state-issued exam, and typically fall under the cosmetology or esthetician license umbrella. This means that many cosmetology or esthetician schools will provide lash tech training – though depending on the school, it may not be as thorough or in-depth as special certification programs. However, this license may still be mandatory depending on your location. 

For instance, New York and California require either a cosmetology or esthetician license to legally perform lash services, whereas in Texas, you only need an Eyelash Extension Specialist license. While you may be able to legally operate in certain states without a license, you risk serious consequences if you run a lash business in states that require them. 

Each state has their own criteria for issuing licenses, and exams for aspiring lash techs may include written questions or practical components. Some states may also require a certain number of training hours and proof of insurance. 

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4 Differences Between a Licensed Versus a Certified Lash Tech

When it comes to a licensed versus certified lash tech, there are several differences to note. Here, we lay out the main contrasts between each. 

1. Legal requirements

In most of the United States (excluding Alabama and Mississippi), a lash tech license is required – whether it’s through a cosmetology or esthetician school. In some states, a medical license or barbering license may also be acceptable. 

In many instances, certifications are voluntary. However, in states like Indiana, lash tech professionals must earn a certification from the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) if they do not obtain a state-issued license. 

2. Scope of training

Earning your lash tech license may require at least one year of schooling, plus the completion of several other courses within the cosmetology or esthetician program. (These courses may be related to other sectors of the beauty industry and not specifically lash work.) Additionally, attending certain cosmetology or esthetician schools may require a hefty financial investment or loans. 

On the other hand, certification programs often focus on specific lash skills and techniques, like fills or extensions. These courses take several weeks to a few months to complete, and usually cost only a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. 

3. Professional track

With an esthetician or cosmetology license, you’re not just limited to doing lashes. You can extend your business to include other beauty services such as facials or peels, which can set you up for professional expansion in the future. 

If you’ve only earned lash certifications, however, it may be illegal for you to perform (or even advertise) additional services outside of your certified expertise, which can make it difficult to earn a profit during slower seasons. 

4. Client trust

Licenses give you the ability to legally work independently or for salons, and while not every client will ask to see proof of your expertise, it can certainly put their minds at ease knowing you’re a trusted professional who has the training to back up your abilities. 

Certifications can offer enhanced skill credibility, giving clients confidence in your specialized services – though, this may not do much to benefit your business if they do not meet your state’s legal requirements.

Make Your Lash Business Come True with GlossGenius

Whether you pursue your full license or only get your certifications will depend on your state requirements. Plus, you’ll need additional licenses if you plan on doing business in other states. It’s important to do your research when it comes to licensed versus certified lash tech mandates to avoid the risk of fines, penalties, and other legal ramifications against your business. 

GlossGenius is an all-in-one platform that can give lash techs the best tools to scale their business. Finances will give you the support you need to make it through tax season unscathed, while Genius Loans can provide up to $250,000 in funding to help you cover your costs and expenses – no personal credit check required. GlossGenius also offers an array of Online Booking features so clients can snag their slots in your schedule in seconds, no sign-ups or app downloads necessary. 

Try GlossGenius today and get a 14-day free trial!

FAQs

How to become a certified lash tech?

Becoming a certified lash tech requires completing certain accredited programs as mandated by your state and/or potential employer. Certifications may include minimum training hours, health and safety courses, techniques, and aftercare. 

Can you do lashes with just a certificate in California?

No. In the state of California, you must hold either an esthetician or cosmetology license to perform professional lash tech services. 

Does Texas require a lash license?

Yes. To operate in Texas, lash techs must have an Eyelash Extension Specialist license, which requires 320 hours of training at a licensed school. Otherwise, a cosmetology or esthetician license is sufficient.