Tiffany Turnham, owner and creator of Tiffany Turnham Beauty, says for anyone who wants to start a skincare business:
I really recommend finding something that you love, something you’re really passionate about, that you would do if somebody didn’t pay  you. Once you figure out what that passion is, then I would go talk to people who have been doing it, who have done it, who are out there, have been out there — 5, 10, 15 years. Ask them what it’s like. Research. Get all the information you can so you can start with the right information.
Learn more about Tiffany’s journey into small business in this video:
Ten Steps to Get You Started
If you plan to start a business, specifically planning to start a skincare business, there are several things you’ll need to do before you start scheduling customers to come in for facials, waxing, or consultation.
Here’s a checklist of what you need to know if you want to know how to start a skincare business:
- Decide what services you will offer. Some aestheticians focus on one area, like facials or botox. Determine what you’re passionate about and build your business around it.
- Decide if you’ll be independent or a contractor. You have two choices when starting a skincare business: you can open your own spa or you can work at someone else’s. Opening your own spa, of course, gives you more freedom and opportunity for profit, but it will also require you to be a full-on business owner. Ask yourself if you’re ready for the commitment.
- Obtain the right business licenses. To start a skincare business, you need a business license to ensure you know the proper procedures to use and health and safety precautions to keep your location up to code. You may need to attend classes or enroll in beauty school, so build the time it takes t to become a licensed aesthetician to your business plan.
- Find the perfect space. If you want to open your own spa, seek out a physical location that has the space you need, is easy to get to, has ample parking, and will attract foot traffic.
- Create the right ambiance. A spa, by its nature, should be relaxing and calming. Consider retaining an interior designer that can help you get the vibe you want for your spa.
- Select and register the right business entity. Before you open your doors, decide what type of business structure you want to file. Both a C Corporation and an LLC will protect you personally from liability, and both have their own pros and cons. If you’re not sure which is best for you, you can read more about comparing a C Corporation to an LLC or you can request a free business consultation from CorpNet.
- Write a business plan. Many business owners are intimidated by business plans, but they don’t have to be complex. Just write down what your mission as a company is, the services you will offer, and how you will achieve your business goals. Refer back to it regularly so you know you’re on track.
- Put together your marketing plan. How will you find new customers? How will you continually book new and existing clients? Draft a marketing plan to help you structure your ideas on how to market your skincare business.
- Find vendors and supplies. As a skincare specialist, you want the best quality products for your clients. You also want the best prices. Negotiate with vendors to find the best fit for your business.
- Open your doors and celebrate! Consider hosting an open house to introduce the community to your new skincare business. Network to build your contacts, and then focus on delivering the best experience so customers will keep coming back.
