How to Start a Lash & Brow Business in the UK (2026)
Lashes and brows are a booming, low-cost niche — and lash extensions, tints and laminations need no licence. But there's one line that matters: the moment you offer microblading or semi-permanent make-up, you cross into treatments that legally need council registration. Plus patch testing is non-negotiable. This guide covers every step in order.
Step 1 — Know where the licence line is
- Lash extensions, lash lifts, brow tinting and lamination — no licence required.
- Microblading / semi-permanent make-up (SPMU) — counts as semi-permanent skin colouring, so both you and your premises must be registered with the council (a Special Treatments Licence in London) under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.
Step 2 — Patch testing is essential
Lash glues and tint products cause reactions. Patch testing before treatment protects clients and is what your insurance will expect — skipping it can void a claim.
Step 3 — Choose your structure and register with HMRC
Sole trader (simplest for solo, home or mobile) or limited company, registered within 3 months of trading.
Step 4 — Insurance and client data
Treatment/public liability insurance (essential), and the ICO data-protection fee (you hold client records and patch-test logs).
Step 5 — The practical setup
Business bank account, simple booking/website, and VAT once turnover exceeds £90,000.
Lash & brow requirements at a glance
| Requirement | Needed? |
|---|---|
| Lash/brow licence | ❌ Not required for lashes, tints, laminations |
| Council registration (microblading/SPMU) | ✅ If you do microblading / semi-permanent make-up |
| Patch testing | ✅ Essential — and an insurance condition |
| Treatment/public liability insurance | ⚠️ Effectively essential |
| HMRC registration | ✅ Sole trader or company |
| ICO data-protection fee | ✅ You hold client data |
| VAT registration | ✅ Once turnover > £90,000 |
Start your lash & brow business the easy way
Spark builds your exact checklist — insurance, patch-test and data basics, and the council registration only if your treatments cross into microblading. Free.
Build my free checklist →FAQ
Do I need a licence for lash extensions? No — lashes, tints and laminations need no licence. Microblading and semi-permanent make-up do need council registration. Is patch testing a legal requirement? It's the standard of care and an insurance condition — skipping it can void a claim. When do I register for VAT? Once turnover passes £90,000 in any 12-month period.
Last reviewed 2026. Confirm current rules on GOV.UK before acting.