You’ve heard that lash lifts, tints, and extensions are “skyrocketing in popularity”, set to overtake mascara as the lash-enhancing go-to, and that increasing numbers of people will be swapping mascara for longer-lasting options.

Now, you want to get in on the lash action. How do you start? Do you have to be certified to do lash lifts?

You do not need to be certified to do lash lifts but most states in the U.S. require a license to work as a lash technician legally. Obtaining lash lift certification through a reputable individual or company will help you develop your lash skills, allow you to specialize in this field, and equip you to provide a high-quality, safe service. 

Confused? That’s because certification and license are two completely different things!

In this article, I’ll cover the differences between both. I’ll also share why having a lash lift certificate under your belt isn’t essential to providing this increasingly sought-after procedure, but it can certainly boost your career.

I’ll give an insider’s look at how becoming certified can help you shine in the lash business and share tips for picking a legit lash lift course.

Let’s get started!

Lash Lift License Vs Lash Lift Certification

We first need to understand the difference between a license and a certification.

A license is required to legally work as a lash artist in most states in the U.S. Governing bodies in the beauty sector award licenses. The most common licenses in this sector are for cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, massage therapy, and nail technician. Different states have different governing bodies and regulations.

A certification is additional training to perfect your art in a particular domain. It is usually given by private companies or individuals with an excellent reputation in the industry.

In this video, lash artist and educator LivBay Lash gives the lowdown on how to find out if you need to be a licensed lash artist where you live.

You might also find this useful: I compiled a table of state requirements for lash techs.

Why You Should Get Certification for Lash Lifts

Okay, so you don’t need to be certified to do lash lifts. But you need lash lift training to be good at doing lash lifts.

Pro Tip: if you’re a client looking for a DIY lash lift procedure, make sure to read my article about doing a lash lift on yourself.

If you’re serious about being one of the best in the lash game, I say lash lift certification is a must.

Before we get into why becoming lash lift certified is a smart move, know that most US states require you to be licensed before you’re legally allowed to do lash lifts. If you live in one of these states, the above-board process is first to get licensed (to work within the law) and then get certified (to perfect your lash skills).

…Back to lash lift certification! These are 9 reasons I believe becoming certified is an important (if not essential) step toward a successful career in lashes:

  • #1: Certification helps you provide a safe service.
  • #2: Certification can lower your insurance risk.
  • #3: Certification boosts your confidence.
  • #4: Certification helps build a reputation for excellence.
  • #5: Certification helps you stand out.
  • #6: Certification helps you troubleshoot.
  • #7: Certification opens up networking opportunities.
  • #8: Certification lets you specialize.
  • #9: Certification makes you business-savvy.

Let’s look at each reason in more detail.

#1: Certification Helps You Provide a Safe Service

You’ll learn everything you need to know about eye anatomy, the best application techniques, and hygiene to offer a safe, sanitary service.

Lash lifts involve using chemicals on the delicate eye area, and you must know how to minimize risks while doing this procedure.

#2: Certification Can Lower Your Insurance Risk

You can give your lash lift certification to your insurance provider as proof that you’re qualified to do this procedure.

The stronger the evidence of your competence as a lash artist, the lower your premiums should be3.

#3: Certification Boosts Your Confidence

When you know what you’re doing and the best way to do it, you’re likely to believe in yourself, making you a self-assured lash artist.

#4: Certification Helps Build a Reputation For Excellence

Once you’ve perfected your technique, you’ll be able to produce consistently successful results. Then before you know it, lash lovers will start talking about the new lash star on the rise (you!).

#5: Certification Helps You Stand Out

Lashing gigs are in demand. It’s an incredibly rewarding way to make a living, after all.

But this means that just about everyone who’s watched YouTube lash tutorials and bought a lash lift kit online can offer this service. What can you offer that these wannabe lash artists can’t? Expertise!

Becoming certified will also help you make a good impression because you’ll know all the top lash care tips and tricks and how-to guide clients in choosing a lash lift to complement their lashes and eye shape.

Bonus: You can set higher prices than lash artists who aren’t certified.

#6: Certification Helps You Troubleshoot

An in-depth understanding of eye anatomy will help you instantly spot if something doesn’t look right during a procedure – and know how to fix it.

#7: Certification Opens Up Networking Opportunities

You’ll meet experienced lash artists who’ll share their must-know advice, answer your burning questions, and maybe even refer clients to you once you’re a pro.

You’ll also be at the cutting edge of lash trends and techniques.

#8: Certification Lets You Specialize

Suppose you’re an esthetician or cosmetologist eager to expand into lashing. Getting lash lift certification will let you specialize in this procedure so you can add it to your offering.

#9: Certification Makes You Business-Savvy

Good lash certification courses go beyond training you to master the lash lift. They’ll also teach you valuable business skills like customer service, how to set up your workspace, and how to promote your services.

Tips For Selecting a Lash Lift Course

Lash lift before and after picture. Lifted lashes at the bottom and regular lashes on top. © divinelashes.ca
Lash lift before and after from certified lash tech

You need to suss out an individual or company before paying them to train you in the art of the lash lift. There are lots of scams and inadequate courses out there!

Here’s what to look for:

  • Certification accredited by a reputable organization. This means the certification has got the nod from a well-respected body, giving it credibility.
  • A proven track record. No fly-by-nighters allowed!
  • Experienced trainers with impressive credentials.
  • Personalized training. Ideally, skip the online courses and go for in-person classes where your trainer gives you plenty of hands-on experience, watches you in action, and guides you if needed.
  • A comprehensive curriculum. The course should fully cover lash lifts, plus sanitation, lash health, client care, and business topics.
  • Good word of mouth. Listen to what past students and the lash industry have to say.

Do You Have To Be Certified To Do Lash Lifts? – Key Takeaways

Even though certification isn’t a legal requirement to do lash lifts in the US, I believe you need to be certified to get and stay at the top of the lash game.

Becoming lash lift certified will boost your career by giving you the know-how to use your lash artistry confidently and competently. And you’re sure to boost clients’ lashes and moods as a result!

References

  1. The National Association of Lash Artists. FAQ’s For Lash Professionals. Retrieved from https://www.nala-lashassociation.com/faqs#section-1623972926551 (11 June 2022)

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