Is opening an individual eyelashes salon a good business idea?

Thinking about jumping into a creative and fast-growing industry? The US eyelash extension scene is on fire right now. Starting an individual eyelashes salon has become a dream for many specialists who have artistic and entrepreneurial skills. But before you go for it, let’s take time to consider the ups and downs that may come with this move and whether this adventure is worth it.

The value of starting an individual eyelashes salon near me

Launching a lash salon near where you live reflects who you are and how you want to work as you get to shape your own environment. Below, we’ll talk about what makes this type of business rewarding and where it may get tough, as all aspects must be taken seriously when deciding if opening a salon is a smart business idea for you.

Freedom on your terms

Ever dreamed of wrapping up work at 3 PM on a random Monday because you can? That’s one of the underrated joys of being your own boss. Running your lash salon, even if it isn’t among the best individual lashes salons in the country, means you decide on the hours, clients, and services. It’s your call. 

Of course, keeping things too limited might make it harder to grow, but more variety often means more bookings. That leads to more income.

The pride you can feel

There’s honestly nothing like creating something that’s yours. It hits differently when you don’t have to tick off some corporate goals or targets. It’s way more personal, coupled with the amazing feeling of:

• Watching your skills improve
• Seeing people come back because they trust you as a specialist
• Knowing your name is getting out there because of the work you do

You can’t get there as an employed eyelash technician, for better or worse.

Money that works for you

Getting started takes boldness and money. But once you push through the early financial strain and get to the point of seeing bookings fill your calendar, things can shift quickly. 

With the right systems and smart planning, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to pay yourself more or even bring on help to expand what you’ve built. After all, this is your individual lashes salon, and the prices you set for your services are your choice, not someone else’s decision to overcharge clients and underpay you.

Benefit from general growth

If you’ve worked where policies mattered more than talent, you want to get free from that environment in an industry that’s only getting bigger. The eyelash scene keeps growing year after year, and there’s no shortage of people looking for the next best individual lashes salon and artist.

Unpredictable paydays

Some weeks, you’re fully booked and flying, but the next? There may be no appointments, but your expenses are still very real. You will have to pay for rent, supplies, marketing, and so on.

That’s the reality, even if you’re running the best lash salon in town. It’s not about how good you are – this kind of inconsistency is just part of the ride. It takes time, planning, and a great deal of patience to get comfortable with the ups and downs.

Insurance is a must

This part may not be exciting, but it’s so important. You will need coverage for professional indemnity, public liability, and more. Is it cheap? No. But if something goes wrong (and at some point, it probably will), you’d rather have the safety net in place than be scrambling later. 

If you’re wondering how much is “enough,” the answer is simple: get as much as you can afford. Insurance is one of those things you never want to need but will be so grateful for if you do.

You’re your own job security

No boss means no backup. If clients don’t walk through your door, the money isn’t coming in. The challenge is to make people come back. If you start slacking, the bookings will drop.

Missed appointments can be super frustrating, too. You’ve blocked that time, maybe turned others away, and then they don’t show up. Some eyelash salons charge a fee for no-shows, while others choose to pay their artists a minimum of two hours, even if a client flakes. It’s a risk, but they take it because they want to support their team. 

You’ll need to decide whether to adopt that practice and what’s right for your business, but don’t be afraid to set boundaries early.

Hard-to-please clients are part of business

There will be days that will test your patience. Some clients will leave unhappy, no matter what you do. There will be days when a single client can spoil the whole atmosphere and make you frustrated. You’ve got to find your way to shake it off and keep going. 

Starting solo can feel like you’re on your own little island. No coworkers to chat with. No one to help make decisions. Some days, you’ll feel proud and powerful, and others will just drain your batteries. 

The pressure of managing everything – your individual eyelashes salon, prices, clients, marketing, and cleaning – can feel like a lot. With that in mind, be sure to talk to your people and lean on your friends, family, or anyone who gets what you’re doing. You don’t have to carry it all alone.

The bottom line

Many artists have managed to open the best individual lashes salons in the country, and that has been one of the most rewarding things they’ve ever done. Put in some effort, and you can be one of them. Of course, you will have to take significant risks and deal with tough days, stressful nights, and moments when you’ll question everything.

But the wins? They’ll feel amazing because you’ll know you have deserved them. Your eyelash salon will be more than a business to you – it will be proof that taking a leap of faith in yourself is worth it. It’s not always smooth, but if your heart’s in it, you’ll find your way. 

Optima will be happy to support you from here and help you open an individual eyelashes salon near you.