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Curious to learn how to start a waxing business? If you’re considering branching out on your own, opening your own business is an incredibly worthwhile venture. However, taking the proper steps to ensure a safe, knowledgeable, and profitable business is key to securing success. 

Over the past three decades, Starpil Wax has helped launch the careers of countless estheticians and entrepreneurs. From training and marketing and more, let’s explore the processes.

How To Start a Wax Business From The Ground Up

Get Certified

Before you start your self-employment journey, you must become an esthetician if you haven’t already. Becoming an esthetician means more than just providing waxing or skincare services. You need customer service and interpersonal skills to build genuine connections and trust with your clients. There are several avenues to take for training, such as esthetician school. 

After getting certified, you can further supplement your education with additional training from Starpil University. While not a replacement for hands-on learning, these online courses take your training to the next level. Offering step-by-step guides on waxing techniques, product knowledge, and more to set you up for success.

Stock Up On Waxing Tools and Supplies 

When learning to start a wax business, you’ll need more than just stripless hard wax or wax warmers To ensure quality results, you’ll need waxing accessories, pre and post-waxing care, and decorative pieces to give your workstation a personal touch. 

Considering these facets is crucial to calculate costs realistically. As it grows and the need for supplies increases, buying wax in bulk and marketing more specialized services to improve your ROI.

Set Prices

Pricing your services appropriately is key to covering your overheads while making a profit. Research the cost of full body wax in your area, which ranges between $50 to $500, and set your prices based on factors like local competition, personal certifications, or service add-ons.

While providing discounts as you’re starting a business may be tempting, it’s necessary to never undersell yourself. Understanding the average price range and setting competitive rates is the secret to success and profitability. 

Choose a Name and Vibe

Considering your location, clientele, and personal style, determining a name for your business can be fun. Are you looking to provide simple but effective services for a wide range of people? Consider a more neutral title, like “Jessica’s Waxing Wonders” or “Waxing by Jessica.”

If you’re looking to target a more niche clientele, your name should reflect the ambiance you want to provide. If you’re set on giving your business a more creative name to target a specific client, that’s great, too! 

For example, those interested in astrology may consider “Mystic Moon Waxing” Others who live near the water might opt for “Ocean Oasis Salon” Since the name is the first thing that people will see about your business, choose one that’s true to who you are. 

Set Goals

Setting professional goals provides you with a clear roadmap and guides a long-term vision. The personal care industry is often competitive, and having these objectives in mind helps you maintain focus, track successes, and allow for any adjustments.

Even if you don’t meet them during your first year of business, which is common, adopting an objective-driven mindset is the first step toward sustainability and success. 

Branding & Marketing

Building a brand and marketing your business effectively is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. Learn about the best salon marketing strategies through our Salon Marketing 101 course in Starpil U. 

There are a few more methods you need to know to get your business ahead of the curve. Including optimizing your website for search engines (SEO), building an audience on social media like Instagram or TikTok, and email marketing to keep your services in customers’ minds. These strategies create a strong online presence that boosts your business's visibility and growth.

Business Tips for Waxing Entrepreneurs

Find Your Waxing Niche

Having a specialized waxing niche can transform your business. Allowing you to target a specific market segment with unique needs, setting you apart from others. 

Interested in face waxing or comfortable performing more intimate treatments? Invest in the best courses and tools to enhance the client experience and establish yourself as an expert. Letting you draw in a dedicated clientele willing to pay a premium for your services. 

Location, Location, Location

Location is everything. Find a spot that fits your business’s goals and aesthetic for the best results.  Somewhere that’s accessible, easy to find, and appealing to your target market. Consider foot traffic, parking availability, and the overall atmosphere of the area; speak with local vendors to get a sense of what to expect. 

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

What’s the first thing to do when starting a business? Protect yourself. Ensure your services comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, including health and safety standards, business licensing, and any regulations related to waxing services.

Additionally, securing your business with the proper insurance is mandatory. Liability insurance protects against claims of malpractice, which is vital for the personal care industry. Insurance options vary based on state, so don’t forget to do your research.

Invest in Only High-Quality Tools

If there’s one expense you shouldn’t cut corners on in your business, it’s supplies. Even if they’re a bit pricey, the highest quality waxes and tools are a part of your business's reputation, efficiency, and client satisfaction—which are pivotal for a strong ROI. 

This means having various types of professional hair removal products, like roll-on wax or soft wax, on hand to cater to all. Don’t forget skincare essentials to dip into the retail side of owning your own business. 

Learn how to calculate ROI for your business to get a firsthand look into the impact of high-quality tools.

Ask for Reviews and Referrals

Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews online and refer friends or family. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool for growing your waxing business, especially if you offer loyalty points or rewards for frequent customers.

Ready to Start Your Waxing Business? 

From finding the right supplies and location for your business to marketing and maximizing ROI, preparing properly to open your business is the first step to success. Want to learn more about high-quality waxing supplies that give the best results? Explore our stripless hard waxes, warmers, and more to see which could suit your business and clientele.

FAQs

Yes, waxing can be a very profitable venture. MarketWatch.com’s market analysis states the hair removal wax market is projected to grow to an estimated $10.5 billion in worth by 2028. With proper money management, education, and marketing strategies, you can have solid revenue within a few years.

Absolutely not! It's common for businesses to not see a profit, even if you’re doing everything correctly. As you build up your client base and refine your services, you’ll learn and adapt to ensure long-term success.

As your business stabilizes, consider expanding your service offerings, hiring additional staff, or opening new locations. Stay informed about industry trends and consider additional certifications or specialized training to broaden your expertise and attract a wider clientele.

This is dependent on your working style and business growth. However, if you find yourself with more clients or internal paperwork than you can handle, hiring a part-time contractor could be the solution.

For instance, an accountant could help you identify esthetician tax write-offs and maximize your ROI, while an assistant is ideal for scheduling appointments or ordering supplies. 

This is a major business decision, but can also be a lifesaver for those who need support.

Are you passionate about improving others’ well-being and confidence through waxing? You’ll make a great esthetician. It takes a strong leader to run their own business — with the ability to be resourceful, analytical, personable, and adaptable.

Being a business owner means that you’re responsible for everything, from inventory and customer retention to financial aspects. This also comes with the perks of a flexible schedule, setting your prices, and personal satisfaction.

It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and determine if this is a fit for you.