Whether you’ve just qualified as a nail technician or you’re looking to turn your nail art hobby into a full-time job, our guide on how to start your own nail salon will take you through all the steps you need to take to begin your journey in the beauty industry.

What are the requirements for opening a beauty salon?

Here in the UK, if you’re offering certain treatments, you’ll need to register your new business with the environmental health section of your local authority. This includes manicures and pedicures, as well as any other treatments you may be looking to offer such as chiropody, podiatry and massages.

Begin by registering your salon with your local authority and ask them which regulations you will need to consider so you are fully aware of everything you will need to look at.

Do you need a license to do nails at home?

Yes, even if you are working from home and not opening a nail salon you will need to have a license.

Do I need Public Liability Insurance?

We would strongly recommend looking into getting Public Liability Insurance as a nail technician. This will cover any accidents and unforeseen circumstances – even something as small as spilling a gel polish on clothes!

If you are looking at employing staff you will need Employers Liability Insurance, which will cover the health and safety of your employees for any potential accidents at work.

How much does it cost to set up a nail salon?

This completely depends on your location, building size, whether you’re hiring staff as well as many other variables. Make sure you set out a business plan and consider all costs. If you’re setting up your nail business from home, your costs will be much lower than if you’re looking to open a nail salon. Ensure what you decide fits into the budget you have. 

What is the best salon booking system?

The best salon software will depend on your needs. Some nail technicians prefer to book their clients in via text or email, but there are other booking systems out there that can help you manage your clients. 

Calandly is a free calendar booking service and Shedul offers a similar free service - marketed specifically at salon and spa owners. There are some paid-for services, but you can begin with a free service first to test how you prefer booking your clients in.

How do I market my nail salon?

Social media is the perfect place to show off your skills as a nail technician. Using Instagram or Facebook to showcase your nail designs for clients will help you with growing your client base and engaging with your previous customers to encourage them to return.

Make sure you make full use of hashtags (take a look at the Instagram hashtags #blueskygelpolish and #blueskynails) and take well-presented images of the nails - you can even tag us in @bluesky_cosmetics and we'll share your images on our Instagram Stories.

Make use of word of mouth and reviews - get your clients to leave reviews online for you and look into offering incentives every so often to get old clients to re-book and recommend to a friend.

Any questions? Feel free to get in touch with us on Facebook or Instagram. Good luck!