How to Become a Lash Technician in Colorado (Step‑by‑Step Guide)
If you’re interested in starting a career in the beauty industry, you may be asking:
How do I become a lash technician in Colorado?
Lash extensions are one of the most in-demand recurring beauty services in Denver and throughout Colorado. However, unlike some states, Colorado has specific licensing requirements that must be met before legally offering lash extension services.
This step‑by‑step guide explains exactly what you need to do to become a licensed lash technician in Colorado and begin building a successful career.
Step 1: Understand Colorado Licensing Requirements
In Colorado, lash extensions are considered a cosmetology or esthetics service. To legally perform lash extensions, you must hold one of the following active licenses issued under the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA):
✔ Esthetician License
✔ Cosmetology License
There is no separate “lash license” in Colorado.
This means you cannot legally perform lash extension services without first becoming a licensed esthetician or cosmetologist.
Step 2: Complete an Approved Esthetics or Cosmetology Program
To obtain licensure in Colorado, you must complete a state‑approved training program.
Esthetician License Requirements
600 hours of approved esthetics education
Curriculum includes skincare, sanitation, facial treatments, and hair removal
Cosmetology License Requirements
1,500 hours of approved cosmetology education
Broader training including hair, nails, and skincare
After completing school, you must pass Colorado’s licensing examinations to become credentialed.
Most aspiring lash artists choose the esthetician pathway because it focuses specifically on skin and eye‑area services.
Step 3: Obtain Your Colorado License Through DORA
Once you complete your required education hours, you must:
Pass the written and practical licensing exams
Submit your application to DORA
Pay required licensing fees
Maintain your license through renewal requirements
Only after receiving your active license may you legally provide lash extension services in Colorado.
Step 4: Complete Professional Lash Extension Training
Although lash extensions are not deeply covered in many basic esthetics programs, professional lash training is essential for mastering:
Classic (1:1) lash application
Proper isolation techniques
Lash mapping and eye shape customization
Adhesive control and retention science
Volume and hybrid fan creation
Client consultation and contraindications
Sanitation and eye safety protocols
High‑quality lash training programs include hands‑on live model practice so you build confidence before working independently.
This additional certification helps you stand out in Denver’s competitive lash market.
Step 5: Secure Employment or Launch Your Lash Business
After licensure and lash training, you can begin working as:
A salon lash technician
A medspa lash specialist
A suite renter
An independent lash business owner
Colorado requires that services be performed in a properly licensed salon or establishment.
If opening your own space, you must ensure your facility meets state and local compliance standards.
Step 6: Build Your Portfolio and Client Base
Success in lash artistry depends heavily on retention and referrals.
To build credibility:
Document before‑and‑after results
Photograph clean lash lines and proper isolation
Track retention performance
Encourage client reviews
Develop a strong social media presence
Consistent, high‑quality work builds predictable recurring income.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Lash Technician in Colorado?
Timeline depends on your starting point:
If you are not yet licensed, you must complete 600 hours (esthetician) or 1,500 hours (cosmetology).
If you are already licensed, you can complete professional lash training in a much shorter timeframe.
Your speed of growth depends on practice, mentorship, and business strategy.
Income Potential for Lash Technicians in Colorado
Lash extensions generate recurring revenue because clients return every 2–3 weeks for fills.
Income depends on:
Pricing structure
Client retention rate
Classic vs volume offerings
Work setting (employee vs independent)
Marketing effectiveness
Well‑trained lash artists in the Denver metro area can build stable, scalable income over time.
Choosing the Right Lash Training Program
Look for programs that provide:
Small class sizes
Live model experience
Retention troubleshooting education
Business and marketing fundamentals
Clear instruction on Colorado licensing compliance
Certification alone is not enough — technical skill and safety knowledge are essential.
Start Your Lash Career in Denver
Elite Aesthetics Academy’s Lash Extensions Training Program in Denver provides hands‑on instruction, retention science education, and business guidance designed to help licensed professionals thrive in Colorado’s beauty market.
If you are ready to begin your journey as a lash technician, request program details or speak with our admissions team about upcoming training sessions.
Your success as a lash artist begins with proper licensure and high‑quality training.
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For many aspiring estheticians, daytime education simply isn’t an option. Work commitments, financial responsibilities, and family obligations often require a more flexible approach. A night esthetician program offers the opportunity to pursue a new career without disrupting your current livelihood.