Entering Competitions and the Importance of Entering the Right Ones
Written by Elisha Clewlow - Award Winning Lash Artist and Organiser of the Opal Beauty Games
Lash Competitions
Rewind back to 2019 and there was an abundance of lash competitions. It was what everyone worked towards. To compete, to receive the most incredible feedback and win a stunning trophy. 2020 hit and the dreaded ‘C’ word was keeping us all at home. There were a number of lash competitions, but we were all itching to open back up and earn back some of the money we had lost. In my opinion, this started the demise of the ‘real’ lash competitions. We have become surrounded by awards that are popularity contests with no structure.
What is a good lash competition?
A good lash competition has rules, it has criteria and it is judged completely blind. It is not judged by votes and whoever can get the most interaction. And not everyone is a finalist.
Whilst I do feel these styles of competitions have their place, they are good from a customer point of view. You can advertise that you are a winner or a finalist. You can show this off and add it into your marketing plan. But when looking for a quality lash competition, it should be based on lash skills only.
Lash competitions are so amazing for growth as an artist. You will receive the most valuable feedback to help develop your skills. After lockdowns, I became so obsessed with entering competitions and I truly believe it is what pushed me to become a better artist.
The Start of Opal Beauty Games
I became so obsessed that I created my own lash competition, with support from the industry’s leading voices who take the time to judge and leave feedback for all our entrants. We are now in our 6th year of the competition and our 4th year of our ever-growing lash conference.
What should you look for when entering a lash competition?
When looking for a lash competition, you need to check they have clear criteria explaining the entry requirements such as:
- What lashes can be used?
- What photos are required?
- Who are the judges that mark your entries?
The competition should be judged blindly, with a code given to your work. The judges should be well-established lash artists and educators (not those who have paid to be a judge). The marking schemes should be available to study. This should include styling, application, coverage and many other areas.
You should choose a model who you feel comfortable lashing. Someone who will let you take your time and not rush you. They must be happy for you to take 1,000 photographs and be photogenic to help show off your work of art. Do not rush your entry. Take enough breaks, drink plenty of water and have a few snacks to keep you switched on.
If you are interested in accelerating your lash skills and education by attending our lash conference and entering our competition, our next event is on
Saturday 3rd October 2026.
Venue: The Hilton, Elstree, Borehamwood
For more information:
www.indulgeurself.com/opal-beauty-games
