The lash industry has seen substantial growth in recent years, with total revenue from eyelash extensions reaching $270 million in 2018, compared to $124.95 million in 2015 in the US. The industry also recorded a 31% increase in USD and 15% in volume of falsies in 2018. 80% of the top ten eyelash extension brands in the US are owned by two companies, with Ardell Fashion leading the way with $18.6 million in revenue, followed by Kiss Ever EZ Lashes and Salon Perfectly Glamorous.
Despite the waning impact of COVID, economists predict continued growth for the industry, with North America experiencing the highest growth, accounting for 37% of the market. The online lash industry is expected to grow even faster, with a compounded growth rate of 7.1% well into 2025 and beyond.
When it comes to lash technicians, over 25% have 5+ years of experience and 89% are trained in some way. Currently 74% holding a cosmetology or beauty license, 37% of artists have the potential to increase their income by offering additional beauty services, and 74% of technicians carry insurance for their work.
Lash artists face challenges in after-care for clients and fixing mistakes made by other artists. Over 50% of technicians have had to deal with clients with allergic reactions to falsies at least once a year, making allergy-patch tests a crucial step in avoiding this problem.
IMAGE Studios is a great place for lash artists to open their own business within one of our salon suites. For a virtual tour of IMAGE Studios, click here. To find an IMAGE Studios near you, please check out our locations page.
