The business of manicures is growing all the time. Whether offering acrylic nails, semi-permanent polish, nail art or classic manicures, there is a high demand.
If you are passionate about this world and want to start your own business, this article is for you. We will tell you step by step how to launch your manicure business, with realistic and practical advice that you can apply right away.
What do you need to start a manicure business?
Before thinking about social networks or an online store, it is key to lay the foundations:
1. Professional training
You don’t need to have a university degree, but it is important to train well. Today there are many face-to-face and online courses on manicure techniques, hygiene, nail polish, gel nails, acrylics, etc. Choose one that includes real practice. Your first clients will notice the difference.
Tip: Don’t just stick to the technique. Learning about customer service and hygiene is also key.
2. Tools and basic products
A common mistake is to overspend on products that you are not going to use at the beginning. Start with just the essentials:
- Professional nail file
- Cuticle pusher
- Cuticle clippers
- Powder brushes
- Basic nail varnishes (neutral colors and the most popular)
- Base and top coat
- Removers and alcohol
- UV/LED lamp if you are going to do semi-permanent or gel
- Clean towels and gloves
Over time, you will invest in a wider variety of polishes, glitters, stickers or nail art brushes.
3. Clean and comfortable workspace
You can start at home, but make sure you have:
- A well-lit table
- A comfortable chair for you and your client
- Good ventilation
- Tidiness and hygiene (alcohol, wipes, trays)
In time, you could rent a shared space or open your own premises.
Define your proposal and services
Don’t try to do everything from the start. Choose a clear line of services to make you stand out:
- Do you specialize in semi-permanent nails?
- Do you offer personalized nail art?
- Are you quick with express manicures?
- Do you target people looking for designs for events?
Putting together a specific proposal helps you to attract your first customers better.
Tip: You can make promotional packs for beginners. For example: “First visit with 20% discount”, or “3 sessions for a special price”.
How to get your first customers
1. Family, friends and acquaintances
They are your first circle. Offer them your services in exchange for testimonials, photos for your networks and word of mouth. It’s a very effective way to get started.
2. Visual social networks
Instagram, Facebook and TikTok are key for the nail business. Post real content, without excessive filters:
- Before and after
- Weekly designs
- Quick videos of the process
- Reels showing your materials
- Customer reviews
You don’t need to have thousands of followers. The important thing is that your content is clear, honest and well done.
Tip: Always add the estimated price to your posts. That saves enquiries and shows transparency.
3. Create a simple online store
Even if you work with WhatsApp appointments, having an online store improves your professional image. With Neolo Shop, for example, you can create your website quickly and easily.
- Show your services and prices.
- Receive inquiries and bookings.
- Add a photo or video gallery.
- Have your own brand domain.
- Respond to potential customers without delay.
And the best thing: you don’t pay sales commissions, and you get a 30-day free trial.
How do you set your prices?
Always calculate your costs:
- Products you use per session
- Time each job takes you
- Your experience and quality
- The type of service (classic, gel, nail art…)
You can look at the going rates in your city or country, but adapt them to your reality. Don’t charge too cheap or too expensive at the beginning. You will adjust as you grow.
Schedule and time management
If you don’t organize your shifts, you can burn out quickly. Use a diary (digital or paper) and block out your schedule well. If you’re just starting out, don’t overload yourself. Always leave time between clients to clean, rest or reorganize.
Tip: Be punctual. It’s key to gaining your client’s trust and getting them to come back.
Hygiene and safety: not optional
This is one of the most important points. Make sure you:
- Clean and disinfect everything before and after each client.
- Use suitable products.
- Do not reuse disposable materials.
- Use gloves when necessary.
- Keep your hands and nails clean.
A client who feels safe will return, recommend you and trust you more.
How to scale the business
Once you have a solid foundation, you can start to grow:
- Sell complementary products: nail polish, hand cream, home kits
- Offer nail + brow or lash combos if you do more services
- Give online classes if you have experience
- Hire someone else or rent a space to have more clients
- Create a monthly subscription with a fixed price and sessions included
You can manage all this from your online shop at Neolo Shop, adding products, forms or reservations.
Ready to get started?
Starting a nail business is not difficult, but it does require perseverance, training, good communication and a professional environment. Today more than ever, having an online presence is key, even if you work from home.
At Neolo you can create your online shop easily, with no sales commissions, your own domain and personalized WhatsApp support to help you whenever you need it. What’s more, you have a 30-day free trial so you can get started without any worries.
Turn your passion for nails into a profitable business. We’ll be with you every step of the way.