Going Long

Semi-permanent eyelash extensions hit the U.S. market less than three years ago, and the trend is still growing faster than the Phoenix suburbs. "It's the hottest thing going right now," says Jo Mousselli, president of Xtreme Lashes, an eyelash extension company that has trained and certified more than 2,000 professionals in applying the extensions, and continues to certify about 60 people every week through workshops held in cities nationwide.



Tim Dana, president of Lavish Lashes, which also certifies and trains licensed beauty professionals, says the revenue generated from the service can be substantial. "Salons not offering eyelash extensions may pay the price in lost clients and missed revenue," he says.

Applying semi-permanent lashes usually takes one to three hours, and the service is costly—a full set typically runs about $350 but some professionals charge up to $600, depending on the market. Dana and Mousselli both stress the importance of professional, hands-on training. The application requires sharp tweezers and a bonding agent, which means there is a risk of injury to the client. But, with proper training, you might just become your town's next "lash diva." lavishlashes.com;

xtremelashes.com —C.W.