A new lash specific license offers a long awaited opportunity to individuals who are interested in solely providing eyelash services.
The state of Tennessee U.S. announced an Eyelash Specialist and Eyelash Service Shop license that went into effect July 1, 2023.
"The law that created an eyelash specialist license opened the opportunity for many professionals who are passionate about eyelashes to quickly complete their education, take the specific exams, and start working. Shops also have the option to open and only offer eyelash services, reducing the equipment needed to operate. So far the Board has licensed two of these shops and one individual but many more have inquired and are in the process of obtaining these new license types. Tennessee cosmetology professionals who have questions about these licenses can contact me by email at Roxana.Gumucio@tn.gov and I will be happy to assist them."
-Tennessee Board Executive Director Roxana Gumucio
The current requirements to become a lash technician vary greatly from state to state, while some require a certain number of hours of training or certification from a recognized organization, many still have no requirements at all.
This lack of consistency has made it a challenge for consumers to know what to look for when choosing a lash technician, and for lash technicians to know what is expected of them. The push towards standardization in the lash industry aims to raise the bar and ensure that lash technicians have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide safe and high-quality services to their clients.
New registration for eyelash technicians also went into effect in Arizona U.S. on October 30th, 2023.
Licensed cosmetologists, estheticians and master barbers in both states can continue to offer eyelash services under their current license types. The changes apply to those that don’t want to take full esthetics training and only want a lash specific registration/ license going forward.
What does this mean for lash educators?
In Tennessee, education for the 300 hour eyelash program may be offered at a cosmetology or an aesthetics school.
Pending final review, it is anticipated that Arizona educators will need to apply for their training programs to be recognized as board approved, and would require a qualified instructor who is a board-licensed cosmetologist, esthetician or board-registered eyelash technician. Applications will be opening early in 2024.
As an organization that is dedicated to the advancement of education and professionalism of the lash industry, NALA is thrilled about the recent changes in Tennessee and Arizona. We look forward to continuing to support our NALA members, Certified Lash Educators and the global lash community as a whole while we work towards even greater advancements to our industry.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes and is not intended to replace formal business advice, financial advice, government regulations, or any other form of legal advice.