We chat with Gwendolyn Toh, Co-Owner of DR. LASH, Singapore’s premier eyelash extension parlour, which is making waves with its latest expansion into Melbourne, Australia. Located in the vibrant and stylish Emporium Mall, DR. LASH is set to bring its acclaimed expertise and distinctive touch to a city celebrated for its beauty and sophistication. Join us as we delve into what this exciting new venture means for both the brand and its new Australian clientele.

Can you share the story behind the inception of DR. LASH and what inspired you to specialise in lash and brow services?

The inspiration for DR. LASH stemmed from a noticeable gap in the quality and care standards at many beauty parlours. I visited numerous salons, only to find that they either took too long, lacked privacy, or, worst of all, caused damage to my own lashes. Determined to prove that it was possible to deliver impeccable lash and brow services, I decided to learn the craft myself. This journey allowed me to perfect techniques that aligned with my vision and share these high standards with our clients.

What sets DR. LASH apart from other beauty salons offering similar services?

While I can’t speak to the inner workings of other parlors, I can confidently say that DR. LASH distinguishes itself by prioritising both beauty and the health of our clients’ natural lashes. Our name, DR. LASH, reflects this dual commitment. We don’t just focus on making our customers’ eyes look beautiful; we ensure that their natural lashes remain unharmed and healthy throughout the process.

How do you ensure quality and innovation in your treatments?

The beauty industry is ever-evolving, and at DR. LASH, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve. We regularly innovate new lash techniques and treatments to keep our offerings fresh and exciting. Each year, we introduce new LashCrafts that align with emerging market trends to ensure that our clients always have access to the latest and greatest in lash and brow services.

What are some of the most popular treatments or products at DR. LASH, and why do you think they resonate so well with your clientele?

One of our standout treatments is Lash Rejuvenation. Many clients are wary of lash extensions due to concerns about potential damage to their natural lashes. Our signature lash rejuvenation treatment addresses these fears by promoting the growth and strengthening of natural lashes. This not only enhances the immediate appearance but also ensures longer retention of lash extensions in the future as the natural lashes become stronger.

As the co-founder of DR. LASH and a prominent influencer in the beauty industry, how do you balance your personal style with the image you project through your brand and social media platforms?

I see myself not as a prominent influencer but as someone passionate about the beauty industry. My journey began with a genuine love for lash extensions, which naturally evolved into a fulfilling career. On social media, I strive to stay authentic and true to myself while constantly working to improve. I believe in transparency and am always open to sharing my views and experiences. This genuine approach helps me connect with my audience and maintain a harmonious balance between my personal style and professional image.

What is one beauty trend that you absolutely adore, regardless of its popularity or longevity?

Can I say… lash extensions? I can never live without them, and I can never live without DR. LASH!

What inspired you to start DR. LASH, and why do you believe in the power of lashes to transform a look and boost confidence?

I was an avid wearer of lash extensions long before DR. LASH was born. As I mentioned earlier, I struggled to find a salon that met all my needs, but I couldn’t give up lash extensions because they saved me so much time daily. With lash extensions, I feel like I wake up looking all dolled up without any makeup on, which boosts my confidence immensely.

Beyond beauty, are there any brands or designers that resonate with you on a personal level? How do they influence your style and business decisions?

Behind the roles of running DR. LASH and being a content creator, I love exploring new fashion trends. Some of my favourites include Zimmermann, Sandro, and Aje. Additionally, I have a soft spot for diamonds from Cartier and Bulgari. Wearing pieces from these brands makes me feel like I’m showcasing a different look or vibe each time, similar to how our various LashCrafts at DR. LASH are designed to tell a story and bring out the best in every woman.

As someone deeply involved in both the beauty and influencer spheres, how do you see the intersection of lifestyle, technology, and beauty evolving in the next few years?

Technology is advancing rapidly, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see robots doing LashCrafts in the future. Previously, we hosted many offline events to meet our customers in person. Nowadays, people are more receptive to connecting through social media platforms like livestream events, enabling us to engage a global audience rather than just local patrons. This shift offers a fantastic opportunity to reach and interact with a broader community.

Throughout your career journey, what have been some of the most rewarding aspects of being a woman entrepreneur and influencer in the beauty industry?

One of the most rewarding aspects has been growth. I never dreamed that DR. LASH would open in the heart of Melbourne CBD, but here we are. This achievement is incredibly fulfilling, despite the challenges that come with it. Just as I expanded DR. LASH to five parlours in Singapore, I am confident we can replicate that success here in Melbourne over time.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future of DR. LASH and your personal brand?

We’ve achieved success in Singapore, and my aspiration is for DR. LASH to become a global market leader, beginning with our expansion into Australia in 2024. For my personal brand, my goal is to continuously spot new trends in the beauty and fashion scene and share my insights and tips with my supportive followers.

How do you envision your influence shaping trends and perceptions in the beauty industry?

By staying true to myself and my passions, I aim to inspire others in the beauty industry. Through innovation and authenticity, I hope to shape trends and change perceptions, emphasizing the importance of both aesthetics and the health of natural lashes. My mission is to empower individuals to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.