Thinking about becoming a lash tech?

I get it – you've probably seen those Instagram posts showing gorgeous lash work and wondered if you could actually make good money doing what you love.

The truth is, while some lash artists are absolutely crushing it financially, others are struggling to book clients.

So what's the real deal with lash tech income?

After three years in the industry and countless conversations with fellow lash artists, I'm here to give you the unfiltered truth about what you can actually expect to earn.

We'll dive into the numbers that no one talks about: the slow months, the startup costs, and yes, the potential to build a six-figure business.

By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly what it takes to succeed financially as a lash technician.

Average Annual Earnings for Lash Techs

Let’s talk real numbers, because most people want more than just averages. The truth is, there’s no single answer to how much do lash techs make each year. But I’ve seen first hand how different your income can look depending on where you live, how much experience you have, and whether you work for yourself or at a salon.

In 2025, the national average salary for a lash technician sits at about $42,000 a year, or $20 an hour. But that’s just the middle of the pack.

Some techs starting out earn closer to $25,000, while others who’ve built up their skills and loyal clients can bring in $50,000 or more. Most lash artists I know fall somewhere in the $36,000 to $44,000 range.

Here's how much do lash techs make a year across different states:

Source: ZipRecruiter Salary Data, May 2025

I remember chatting with a fellow tech from Seattle who shared that her rates were almost double what my friend in rural Texas charged. It was simply because the demand and cost of living were so different. These kinds of stories are common in the lash world, and they show why it’s important to look beyond just the average when planning your own career.

Lash Tech Income by Experience Level

Experience changes everything. When you’re just starting out, every new client feels like a win. But with time, your skills grow, and so does your confidence. Clients notice. They come back. Suddenly, you’re not just filling your schedule; you’re also raising your rates.

Starting Out: Entry-Level Lash Techs (0–2 Years)

Most new lash techs bring in between $25,000 and $35,000 a year. You might see a little more or less, but that’s the usual starting point. Many beginners land their first job at a salon, where the pay is often a 40/60 commission split. That means you keep 40% of what you earn from each client. When I was new, every pay check felt like proof I was building something real, even if the amounts weren’t huge yet.

You’ll find stories like this all over Reddit.

A user- Clear-Ad-9385 from r/eyelashextensions shared his first-year experience, stating, "I get paid 40/60 and my check every two week ranges from 1200-1700."

It takes most new techs 6 to 12 months to build up a steady stream of clients. That first year is all about learning and persistence.

Levelling Up: Experienced Lash Techs (3+ Years)

With a few years under your belt, things change. The numbers start to climb. Many experienced lash techs make $44,000 a year or more. The top pros can reach $50,000 and beyond, especially if they go out on their own or score a better commission split. I’ve watched friends negotiate a 50/50 or even 60/40 split. Suddenly, the same work brings home a much bigger check.

Reddit user danielswatermelon from r/eyelashextensions reported, “I specialize in natural lashes—seven years in, I’m making $80k. I don’t even work full time. You can do it if it’s meant for you.”

Employee vs. Self-Employed Lash Tech Earnings

To make this even clearer, here’s a quick breakdown comparing the two paths side by side. This table covers average annual income, typical commission rates, and a few of the biggest pros and cons for each option, so you can see which might fit your goals and lifestyle.

Top Factors Impacting Lash Tech Salary

Multiple variables determine how much lash techs make a year, from geographic location to personal skill level.

Understanding these factors helps set realistic income expectations and identify areas for improvement.

While there are endless factors that affect income, we’re going to discuss only 7 major ones.

1. Location Impact: Geographic location creates significant salary variations. Washington state lash techs average $72,917 annually while Florida techs earn $48,111 - a $24,000 difference based purely on location.
2. Experience Level: Years in the industry directly correlate with earnings. Entry-level techs start around $25,000-$35,000, while experienced professionals earn $50,000+ annually through refined skills and established clientele.
3. Employment Structure: How much do lash techs make a year varies dramatically between employees (40/60 splits) versus independent contractors, keeping 100% revenue minus overhead costs.
4. Skill Specialization: Advanced techniques like volume lashes, lash lifts, or permanent makeup command premium pricing. Specialized skills can increase annual earnings by 20-30%.
5. Client Retention Rate: Repeat customers form the income foundation. High retention rates ensure consistent monthly revenue, while constantly replacing clients limits earning potential.
6. Working Hours: Full-time techs obviously out-earn part-time workers, but efficiency matters too. Some experienced techs earn more working 4 focused days than beginners working 6 days.
7. Marketing Abilities: Social media presence, referral programs, and networking directly impact client acquisition and how much do lash techs make a year.

These interconnected factors explain why lash tech salaries vary so widely.

With that said, let’s now see some strategies to increase your earning potential.

How to Increase Your Lash Tech Yearly Earnings

Let's be real about what actually moves the needle on earnings.

1. Don’t Get Stuck at Starter Prices

This is where most techs mess up. They get comfortable and never raise their rates. Reddit user Enough-Vermicelli613 shows what's possible with proper pricing: "i hit $7k regularly when i was working full time, but that is revenue not profit. my fills are currently $110 & full sets are $250." That's a far cry from the $40-60 fills many new techs charge. The jump from budget pricing to premium rates can literally double how much do lash techs make a year.

2. Master Your Booking Game

Empty appointment slots kill your income. Reddit user growlingperusal’s approach might help,

"I also pre-book all my clients if they can 2-3 appts out. This has helped keep my books full and clients tend to be a little more on top of keeping their appointments when they realize there are limited spots to reschedule to."

Long story short: create scarcity and ensure consistent revenue.

3. Build a Loyal Clientele

One salon owner mentioned having a waiting list because loyal clients book their next appointment before leaving. That’s the dream: less chasing new faces, more regulars who fill your calendar month after month.

4. Don’t Ignore Location

Location matters a lot. Washington lash techs earn $35/hour, while those in Florida average $23/hour for the same services. Sometimes, moving is the fastest way to boost your earning potential.

5. Don’t Compete on Price Alone

There are always budget lash techs in every town, but the big earners set themselves apart as premium providers and charge what they’re worth. Stand out for your quality, not your low prices.

Lash Tech Business Expenses: What to Expect

Before calculating how much do lash techs make a year in net profit, it's essential to understand the business expenses that impact your bottom line.

These costs vary significantly between employed and self-employed lash technicians.

Costs based on industry averages (estimates)

For employed lash techs, most supply costs are covered by the salon, but independent contractors must factor these expenses into their pricing strategy.

Is Becoming a Lash Tech Financially Worthwhile?

After diving into all these numbers and real experiences, here's my honest take: becoming a lash tech can absolutely be financially rewarding, but it's not the quick money-maker some people think it is.

If you're considering this career path, go in with realistic expectations.

For those already in the field looking to grow, remember that your technical skills are just the foundation. Your ability to market yourself, retain clients, and run efficient operations will ultimately determine your success.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing lash business, having the right support systems in place makes all the difference.

At Zoca, we help beauty professionals like lash techs with end-to-end marketing solutions and AI-powered agents that handle client communications, booking, and follow-ups automatically. Because when you're focused on perfecting those lashes, you shouldn't have to worry about missing potential clients or spending hours on administrative tasks.

See the difference for yourself—book a quick demo now!

Here's to building the lash career you've always wanted - one that pays well and brings you genuine satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to start making good money as a lash tech?

Most techs see significant income growth after 12-18 months once they build a steady client base. Initial months are typically slower as we learn and establish our reputation.

2. Do I need a cosmetology license to become a lash technician?

Requirements vary by state. Some states require full cosmetology licensing, while others offer specific lash extension certifications. Check your local regulations before starting.

3. What's the difference between working at a salon vs. going independent?

Salon employees typically earn 40-50% commission but have lower overhead costs. Independent techs keep 100% of revenue but handle all business expenses and client acquisition.

4. How much should I charge for lash services as a beginner?

Start competitive with local market rates (usually $80-120 for full sets) then gradually increase as you gain experience and build clientele. Don't undercut yourself too severely.

5. What supplies and equipment do I need to get started?

Basic startup costs range $2,000 to $5,000 including training, lashes, adhesives, tweezers, lash bed, and lighting. Many salons provide equipment if you're working as an employee.

6. Can I make six figures as a lash technician?

Yes, but it requires strong business skills, premium positioning, and often expanding beyond basic lash services. Multiple revenue streams and efficient operations are key.

7. How many clients do I need per day to make a living?

Most successful techs see 4-8 clients daily depending on service prices and local market. Quality over quantity often yields better long-term results.

8. Is the lash industry oversaturated?

While competitive in some areas, skilled techs with good business sense still find success. Focus on exceptional service and client relationships rather than competing on price alone.