DO YOU NEED A LICENSE TO DO LASHES IN VIRGINIA?

Are you considering a career in eyelash extensions in Virginia? Or perhaps you're a lash enthusiast wondering about the legal requirements for getting your lashes done in the state. Either way, you're in the right place!

In Virginia, the practice of applying eyelash extensions falls under the category of "cosmetology or esthetics." To legally provide eyelash extension services, you must obtain a cosmetology or esthetician license from the Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology.

The license requirements include completing a formal education program in cosmetology or esthetics(usually 600 hours in an 8-10months program), passing a written and practical exam, and completing continuing education courses to maintain your license.

While it may seem like a hassle, obtaining a license ensures that you or your lash technician has the necessary training and expertise to provide safe and sanitary services.

So, to answer the question, yes, you do need a license to do lashes in Virginia! Prioritize your safety and the safety of others by following the legal requirements.

YOU THOUGHT I WAS DONE? NAH...

You are curious about the lash extensions industry, you are wondering wether it is something you want to pursue as a hobby, passion, or business that may turn out to be lucrative, but you are not quite sure, I got you. If you do not want to spend thousands of dollars, enrolling in a cosmetology or esthetic program because you do not know if doing lashes or having a lash extensions business is right for you, continue reading.

It sounds really good, enrolling in an esthetics or cosmetology program, it is the right thing. However, if doing lash extensions is your sole motivation for enrolling in these institutions, wait. Lash extensions application is not covered in either of these programs(esthetics & Cosmetology). It is a topic that is barely covered at these institutions, making it very necessary for an aspiring lash technician to still take a lash extension class, outside of the program she decides to pursue. Finding a lash technician that does the type of lashes you want to do in your business, trying out her extensions by booking a few lash extensions appointments of some sets she provides, and then taking a class with her, is your best bet to actually learn how to do lashes. These classes are usually 1-1, or in very small groups, they are private, precise, and you actually learn the specific techniques, supplies and the holy grail of what lashing entails.

CAN YOU LASH WITHOUT A LICENSE ?

If you read the above text, you probably know what I am about to say next.

Doing something well consistently, can make you an expert in that specific field. I recommend taking a beginner's lash class for starters. Find someone whose business model or work attracts you, take a class, and start practicing. You will be surprised at the number of people who thought lashing was so easy, and got in the business for all the wrong reasons, thinking they were going to make so much money, and underestimated the mountain of hard-work that comes with owning a business, working in the service industry, and dealing with clients in person.

Once you practice, take as long as you need to feel comfortable and confident in your work. Start lashing as a hobby. Lashing as a hobby can take as little or as long as you want , depending on how many hours you designate to honing your skills. You can be making money while doing a hobby. Just keep in mind, that after making a certain amount of money via card payments, you will have to file taxes. Check with the IRS to find out how much this amount is. If after some time, you discover that you are actually good, the people or clients you lash are satisfied with your work, their retention rate is great, you are progressively building a client base, and you are happy working in the industry, then it is time to take your hobby or small business to the next level. You can now enroll in an esthetics or cosmetology program with peace of mind. Knowing that those thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours spent completing that program will be put to use, for the advancement of your new career.

So do not be scared or discouraged because you do not have time to enroll in school to get licensed in Virginia. Think about taking a lash class as you learning. anew hobby and skill. Only take the next step if you actually become skilled and when you are ready to take lashing from hobby to business. This is just my idea, if you do not agree, that is ok.

Good luck in your endeavors!