What are the main skills needed to be a beauty salon owner?

The beauty industry is booming in the UK and shows no signs of slowing down. When we look good, we feel good, and, in a world where confidence is everything, it makes sense that we’re willing to splash the cash to get that extra boost.

Once a ritual only women would partake in, beauty treatments are growing increasingly popular among the male population, with services such as spray tanning, waxing and even eyebrow shaping now common requests from men. 

Given the rising interest in beauty services, opening a salon could be a lucrative prospect. However, as with any business, it’s not something you should launch straight into without the appropriate planning and preparation.

You will need to consider many things, such as which treatments your salon will specialise in and whether you’ll hire a team to enable you to take on a higher number of clients. There are also several essential skills, both beauty and business-related, which you must have before you open the doors to your own salon.

Knowledge of skin types and skincare products

You will need to have a strong knowledge of different skin types and conditions, such as rosacea and psoriasis to provide the best service to your clients.

Different skin types require different products, so you’ll need to understand which products complement each skin type and condition, as well as which to avoid. This knowledge will also allow you to choose the best type of treatment for your client. 

Skills to carry out treatments and beauty services

As a beautician, you’ll need to be skilled in all the areas of beauty in which you’re qualified. Most beauticians will complete training in facial treatments such as the application of facial scrubs and masks, as well as facial waxing, body waxing and nail services. 

If you offer specialist services such as body massages, Brazilian waxing or makeup application, you’ll need to be qualified and experienced in these areas. This also applies to any staff who work at your salon and provide these treatments. 

Accounting

To run a successful business, you’ll need to be capable with budgets and money management. This includes being aware of how much income your business brings in and what your expenditures are.

This will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on staff salaries and other essentials to keep your salon running smoothly. 

Stock management

Salons need to keep a good level of stock on site at all times. You’ll need the products used for the beauty services you offer, as well as stock to sell to customers to use at home. 

You will need to monitor your stock regularly, recording how much of each item you have left and how much more you need to order from your suppliers. It pays to build a strong relationship with your suppliers, as it may make it easier to negotiate on prices if necessary.  

People management

As your clientele grows, you may want to hire a few other beauticians to enable you to expand your business and take on more clients. The recruitment process can feel overwhelming if you’ve never had to hire staff before, but there are plenty of resources available to guide you through the process. 

Knowledge of health & safety regulations

Once you’ve hired new staff, you will be legally required to comply with the health and safety regulations for employers. This includes having current employers’ liability insurance to protect your business financially against any compensation costs you may have to cover if an employee is injured or becomes ill as a result of their working environment.

Employer’s liability insurance is usually included in beauty salon insurance policies but remember to always check with your provider.