In 2024, Alyssa O’Rourke & Adrian Caligiuri took over ownership of Locks Lash – a multi award-winning Australian lash education business and product supplier. Alyssa spoke with Hannah Gay on the various avenues students can take in undergoing lash training, detailing the ways Locks Lash sets itself apart in a growing private training sector.
Congratulations on acquiring Locks Lash last year! I understand you’ve worked your way through the business. What drew you to the lash industry to begin with?
“It’s a bit of an unconventional story. While I wasn’t always deeply passionate about beauty itself, I’ve always loved connecting with people. I’ve always found joy in making others feel good—both inside and out—and becoming a lash technician gave me the perfect opportunity to do that. For me, it’s not just about applying lashes; it’s about creating a space where meaningful conversations happen, where clients can unwind, and leave not only looking great but feeling uplifted, too. There’s something truly rewarding in knowing that a simple lash appointment can have such a positive impact on someone’s day and confidence. That’s what truly drew me to this industry.”
Given you’ve worked as a trainer for Locks Lash, what have you come to understand about the lash industry and application techniques in
this time?
“I’ve gained a deeper understanding of both the artistry and technical skill that the lash industry requires. One of the key takeaways for me has been just how important precision and attention to detail are, not only in the application process/isolating the lashes but also in understanding the unique needs of each client. Every set of lashes is different, and tailoring the technique to suit individual eye shapes and desired results is crucial.
I’ve also learned how essential proper education and technique are for safety and long-term success. Lash health is something that often gets overlooked, but as a trainer, I’ve seen first-hand how critical it
is to teach proper isolation, product selection, and aftercare to ensure clients get the best results without compromising the health of their natural lashes. I found Locks Lashes products to be so good that I never bothered to try anywhere else, down to their glue, lashes, primer and Unicorn Tears pH balancer (yes that’s the product’s name and it’s honestly the best kept secret to lash retention!)
From an application standpoint, I’ve seen how tools, products, and techniques continue to evolve. It amazes me how much the lash industry is evolving every day; there is always something new on the horizon! It’s definitely not a dying trade or industry, in my opinion.
Ultimately, being a trainer with Locks Lash has reinforced the importance of ongoing education, staying current with trends, and continuously refining techniques to not only meet but exceed expectations.”
Lashes are a booming trade. Why do you believe this is?
“Lashes are a booming trade because, in many ways, they’ve become the ultimate symbol of vanity in the age of instant gratification. But here’s the controversial part: I think the lash industry thrives because it plays into our insecurities. Social media, influencers, and reality TV have set an unrealistic standard of beauty, and lashes— whether it’s a full set of classic lash extensions, mega-volume lash extensions, or lash lifts—offer a quick and seemingly easy way to meet that expectation.
Lashes have become a go-to for women who want to look effortlessly ‘done’ without the hassle, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to wake up feeling their best with minimal effort? From my experience as a lash tech, when I talk to clients, the main reason they get lash extensions is to feel ‘put together’ and ‘beautiful’ without spending time on a full makeup routine. It’s not so much about impressing others—it’s about boosting your own confidence and saving time. With that kind of convenience and payoff, how could it ever fade out? It’s addictive, and lashes are definitely here to stay!
There’s been some talk about the lash industry being a ‘dying trade.’ In reality, the lash industry is far from fading—it’s evolving. New techniques and application methods are continuously emerging, keeping it dynamic and innovative. Think of lash techs like hairdressers: hairdressers aren’t going anywhere, so why would lash artists? While strip lashes may be shifting to cluster lashes, just as hair extensions evolved to clip-ins, people still visit hairdressers. The same goes for lashes; the artistry and professional expertise remain essential.”
Students can gain accreditation through Locks Lash without completing any prior beauty education. What are some of the advantages for students who opt to take this targeted path?
“In Australia a lot of services, including lash extensions, are not regulated. This means that you don’t need to do a government-accredited course to be able to conduct the service, start a business, gain employment, be covered by insurance, and so on. We provide a Certification of Competency and our certificates are also beauty industry recognised in Australia and New Zealand.
What really sets Locks Lash apart is the quality and depth of the training we provide. Even though the regulations are relatively relaxed, we don’t take a relaxed approach to education. Our training is comprehensive, research-driven, backed by science and focused on setting a high standard within the industry.
Many online courses impose a time limit for completion, but at Locks Lash, we take a different approach. We offer lifetime access to all of our online courses, ensuring that students can learn at their own pace without any pressure. What’s more, we’re committed to continuous growth and innovation, regularly updating our courses with new content and techniques. This means that anyone who has purchased a course, whether recently or years ago, will receive all future updates— completely FREE—throughout their career. It’s our way of ensuring our students are always equipped with the latest industry knowledge and skills – exchange in abundance!
For students without prior beauty education, this path offers a real opportunity to learn from the ground up, without the barrier of needing extensive prior experience. Our courses are designed to give them everything they need to succeed—focused, hands-on training that covers everything from technique to client care, and even business skills for those looking to run their own lash or brow businesses. By offering a Certificate of Completion, we ensure that our students walk away with a solid understanding of the craft and the confidence to start their careers immediately. We’re not just teaching lash application—we’re setting the benchmark for the industry, ensuring that everyone who completes our course is fully equipped to excel and maintain the highest standards of quality and professionalism.”
What issues arise for students who opt to entirely self-train in lashes?
“When students choose to entirely self-train in lashes, there are a few key issues that often arise, particularly when they don’t have structured guidance or professional oversight. First and foremost, lack of proper technique can be a major concern. Lash application isn’t just about placing extensions on lashes; it requires precision in isolation, correct lash glue/adhesive usage, and a deep understanding of lash health. Without expert guidance, students may develop bad habits that are difficult to unlearn and can lead to poor results, or even damage to the client’s natural lashes.
Another issue is the absence of quality feedback. When self-training, students may not know if they’re doing something wrong until it becomes a problem with clients. Without a trainer to offer corrections or constructive feedback, there’s a risk of students not fully understanding the subtleties of the craft, like creating a well-balanced set of lashes or working with different lash types for various eye shapes. Safety and hygiene are also critical, and they’re often overlooked when students go down the self-training path. Professional lash courses teach not only technique but the essential aspects of working safely with products, managing adhesives (you’re working with powerful glue around eyes, a very sensitive area), and keeping a sterile workspace— things that are easy to overlook when training alone. Lastly, client management and business skills can be neglected. Many self-taught lash artists are excellent technically but may struggle with client communication, understanding aftercare, or managing the business side of things, like pricing, marketing, and time management. Professional training provides a well-rounded skillset that goes beyond just the application process.
While self-training may seem cost-effective, it can lead to more mistakes and costly fixes down the road. Opting for professional, structured training ensures students get the full picture—ensuring not only that they master the art of lashes but also that they work safely, build a successful business, and maintain long- term client satisfaction.”
Many would argue intricate hands-on work like lash application ought to be conducted in-person only. How has Locks Lash overcome this barrier?
“Many people assume that intricate, hands-on skills like lash application can only be taught in-person. While face-to-face learning certainly has its benefits, I’ve always believed that a well-structured online course can offer just as much—if not more—value, when done right.
Personally, I experienced both sides of the equation. About eight years ago, I attended an in-person training with Locks Lash, which was a one- day course, from 9am to 5pm, where I was given a written manual to take home. Then, a few years later, I completed their online course, and I was genuinely amazed by how thorough and detailed it was. The online training not only matched the in-person experience, but it also provided me with an incredible amount of information that I could revisit at any time. For instance, if I encountered a problem with a client, I could easily review my course materials to troubleshoot. The depth of the content made me feel like I had just completed a university-level program—it was that comprehensive. And I say that with a smile, but it’s the truth! The course is packed with value, combining videos, written content, and close-up demonstrations of crucial techniques, like how to dip a lash correctly in glue.
What truly sets Locks Lash apart is how interactive the online platform is. Students are required to submit their work for assessment, complete multiple- choice quizzes, and pass practical exercises before progressing. There’s no fail rate—students continue until they’ve mastered the material and passed every step. This ensures a high level of competency and confidence.
In addition, our courses are designed to offer real-time feedback, with plenty of opportunities for students to ask questions and receive personalised advice—something many online courses lack. To further support our learners, we offer ongoing assistance whether by email, call or message to reinforce the learning experience. And for those who prefer in-person training, we offer that option and also give automatic access to our online course content as an online manual. In saying that, the online model has proven to be incredibly effective and accessible to students worldwide, regardless of location.
Ultimately, we’ve been able to overcome the challenge of remote learning by embracing technology and creating an engaging, interactive platform. We’re committed to providing the highest level of education, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and confidence they need to succeed, whether they’re learning from the comfort of their own home or in person in one of our classes.”
Locks Lash offers a broad range of courses (27 in total!). Which would you consider the most popular?
“We’re proud to offer a comprehensive range of 23 online courses and 4 additional in-person classes across Australia and New Zealand. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—we’re about to launch our 24th online course, and it’s set to be a game changer!
Our most popular courses include the Complete Lash Artistry course, which is available both online and in-person (or as a mix of both). It covers everything from classic to hybrid, as well as pre-made and pro-made volume lash extensions, giving students a complete skillset to excel in the lash industry. Another standout is our Complete Brow Master course, also offered online, in-person, or as a mix of both. This course has quickly become a must-have for anyone looking to master the art of brows. It covers Brow Lamination, Hybrid Brow Tinting, and Brow and Facial Waxing, providing students with the tools to create flawless, defined brows and elevate their services.”
You also operate courses in business and marketing. What sets these courses apart from those offered at competitor institutions?
“Many courses out there teach generic business concepts, but we’ve developed content that is directly applicable to running a lash or beauty business, helping students to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving market. Our business courses go beyond theory. We cover everything from setting up your own lash business, pricing strategies, and client retention, to managing bookings, creating effective marketing campaigns, and leveraging social media for growth. What makes our courses unique is how we integrate hands-on tools, templates, and step-by-step guides that students can immediately apply in their businesses. It’s not just about learning concepts; it’s about implementing them in a way that drives real results.”
What is next for Locks Lash? What training reforms, if any, are you set to implement to see the business grow?
“Since we took over Locks Lash, we’ve been brimming with ideas, and now it’s all about putting them into action. There’s a lot of excitement ahead! Personally, I’m passionate about bringing Locks Lash back to its original roots—back to when I was a consumer myself—and then building on that foundation as we continue to grow. Locks Lash has already been established as leaders in the education space, and we have big plans to take that even further.
One of the things we’re most proud of is our lash glue, particularly HOLY GRAIL— our signature product. The retention it provides is unmatched, and we hear time and time again from our customers that it’s one of the reasons they swear by it. This product has become a cornerstone of our brand, and we plan to build on that success.
Looking ahead, our goal is to expand not just in education, but also to help build and grow successful salons around the world. Whether it’s through our courses or our premium products, we’re dedicated to supporting lash and brow artists and salon owners in achieving long-term success. The journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds as we continue to innovate and inspire across the globe.”
Other training opportunities
Australian emerging lash technicians in 2025 can also pursue training opportunities via Elleebana and International Lash Masters.
Elleebana
Face-to-face lash education seminars are run throughout the year by Elleebana in every state of Australia. These courses feature training in lash lifts, lash lamination, and lash extensions for beginners through to advanced capabilities. A mix of courses are also available for completion online.
Elleebana also offers different types of Salon Sessions. Discovery Sessions (suited to interested Elleebana stockists) and Support Sessions (suited to current Elleebana stockists) provide teams a personalised training experience with a Master Trainer from Elleebana’s extensive national network. This can involve training in a specific service or product range to ensure Elleebana lash and brow technicians are making the most of their service offerings. So far, Master Trainers have travelled to salons in the likes of Darwin, Rockhampton, Bendigo, Albury, Coffs Harbour, and Byron Bay, to name a few. Discovery Sessions and Salon Sessions are subject to availability and usually take two weeks to secure.
The business, which celebrates 30 years of operation in 2025, also exports its best-selling Lash Lift and Profusion ranges to over 60 countries globally.
Find details on Elleebana’s 2025 face-to-face courses online at www.elleebana.com/education-calendar.
Find details on Elleebana’s Salon Sessions online at www.elleebana.com/salonsessions.
International Lash Masters
International Lash Masters (ILM) held its first conference in Melbourne in 2019 with just 69 attendees. Since then, another five have been held with future annual events slated to run, including in 2025.
Deanna Campese, the founder of ILM, says “being a lash artist, or [member of] the beauty industry can be quite isolating if we work by ourselves; it can be hard to reach others in the community.” Inspired by similar events she’d seen running in the USA and the sense of community they sought to develop among industry professionals, Deanna opted to launch her conference in Australia. “We have even seen a lot of business collaborations come from attendees becoming friends and networking with each other.”
“The ILM conference is suited to both experienced and emerging lash technicians. We try to balance seminars [focused on] different areas of business growth to now include marketing and social media, with seminars on lash and brow techniques. Everyone can benefit.”
ILM conferences seek to inspire its audiences with a mixed offering of national and international lash educators, suppliers, salons, as well as talent from the brow and PMU industries. Sessions are suited to emerging and experienced lash technicians alike. “Everyone in the industry is on their own path. Some lash artists have goals of business expansion into opening salons, some want to develop their own product line or educate their own students,” Deanna explains. “I think about what I’d like to listen to in terms of seminars and who would be the best for each, as a person in the same boat as the attendees. I am no different to them and I know the struggles or trajectory they might have for themselves, which I think is important to take into consideration.”
Like Lash Locks, a key pillar of IML events is in its business advice offering. “We started off expanding to include success stories of business owners in the space however with the rise of importance of marketing, especially online and understanding how to attract customers within your business in more modern ways, it only seemed fitting to have expert advice to help our attendees navigating that role they need to take on as a business owner.”
For those interested in offering lash training themselves, ILM has developed an online course to meet an increase in demand in lash artists hoping to train new students outside of completing a Certificate in Training and Assessment (or TAE). ILM has also introduced Recognised Prior Learning for those in the ILM community “to obtain their Statement of Attainments for their existing lash skills”. This move occurred in response to the introduction of assessment to Apply Volume Eyelash Extensions (SHBBMUP015) via the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). “Many lash artists completed private volume lash training prior to it even being a recognised skill under the VET system. Our community can therefore gain that accreditation now without having to re-do a lash course.”
Deanna adds, “We wanted to help artists develop fundamental private lash courses and avoid developing ‘crash courses’ that [could lead to] a damaged industry reputation. We did this because of the minimal regulation in the beauty industry and the increase in people we spoke to who said they wanted to develop lash training courses, but weren’t sure how.”
2025 lash trends according to International Lash Masters:
- Brown lashes
- Wispy sets
- Wet sets
- Natural-looking lash extensions
- Heavy, mega-volume lashes are out
This article originally appeared in the Issue 01 2025 print issue of Professional Beauty magazine. Read it here.
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