Ayu Ihwana built her beauty business around a simple need: the ability to earn an income while maintaining a flexible schedule for her health and family. At 33, she lives in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, with her husband, who works as an expedition courier, and their 14-year-old child.

Before becoming an entrepreneur, Ayu worked as a sales promotion representative. When declining health forced her to leave the job, she began looking for a more adaptable way to support her household. In 2018, she launched Ayulash Eyelash Extension, offering eyelash extensions, lash lifts, eyebrow henna, and makeup services.

Ayu initially developed her skills through eyelash training and independent makeup practice. She continued searching for opportunities to improve, and in 2022 her sister-in-law told her about makeup and hairstyling training organized by Yayasan Inspirasi Indonesia Membangun, or YIIM, and PT Insight Investments Management.

The program gave Ayu a clearer understanding of the areas she needed to strengthen. She learned new application techniques, improved her use of products such as foundation, and gained valuable practice working on other people. The experience increased both her technical confidence and her motivation to grow the business.

Before the training, Ayu typically received one or two makeup bookings a month. That number increased to four or five clients, and sometimes more, after she completed the program. Displaying her training certificate at home helped reassure customers, while recommendations from satisfied clients expanded her reach across different parts of Tangerang.

Her assignments now include makeup for weddings, graduations, engagements, marriage ceremonies, and dance groups. Prices generally range from Rp50,000 to more than Rp200,000, depending on the service. Ayu promotes her work through Instagram, WhatsApp, and customer referrals.

The larger customer base has produced a meaningful rise in earnings. Ayu reported an average monthly net income of Rp1.5 million, with busy periods reaching Rp4 million to Rp5 million. Demand is especially strong around Eid, graduation season, and popular wedding periods.

Although her collection of makeup equipment is still limited, Ayu is gradually investing in the items she needs. She remains focused on improving her skills and building Ayulash into a stronger, more sustainable source of income.

Customers interested in Ayu’s beauty services can contact 0896-3542-0679 or visit her Instagram account at @ayulash07.