How to Start a Profitable Waxing Business

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.

READ: Everything You Need to Know to Become a Professional Waxer

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.

READ: Why Buy Wax in Bulk? Benefits for Your Salon

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.

READ: Essential Hair Removal Products for Salons: A Wholesale Guide

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.

How to Start a Profitable Waxing Business | FAQs

What certifications and training do I need to start a waxing business?

Before starting a waxing business, you must first become a certified esthetician through an accredited cosmetology or esthetics program that meets your state's licensing requirements. 

This foundational education provides the necessary skills in skincare, hair removal techniques, sanitation practices, and client care essential for professional waxing services. Additionally, before starting your own business, consider taking business management courses covering salon operations, client booking systems, and financial management. Remember that most states require ongoing continuing education to maintain your esthetics license, making professional development a continuous part of running a profitable waxing business. Having proper certification not only ensures legal compliance but also builds client trust in your expertise and professionalism.

What essential supplies and equipment do I need to open a waxing business?

Opening a profitable waxing business requires investing in high-quality professional waxing supplies and equipment to ensure client satisfaction and service efficiency. Your essential startup inventory should include various professional wax formulas to serve different client skin types and services. 

Professional-grade wax warmers in appropriate sizes (from standard 1lb warmers to large 5lb or 10lb models, depending on your client volume) are critical investments that directly impact service quality. Pre and post-wax care products, such as cleansers, oils, and soothing lotions are necessary for complete client care, while waxing accessories, including applicators, spatulas, and protective items, ensure hygienic service delivery. 

Beyond waxing supplies, you'll need treatment furniture like a professional waxing bed, proper lighting for detailed work, sterilization equipment, appointment scheduling software, and point-of-sale systems. When selecting these items, prioritize quality over cost savings, as professional-grade supplies yield better results, higher client satisfaction, and improved long-term profitability despite the higher initial investment required when starting your waxing business.

How should I price my waxing services to ensure profitability?

Setting the right prices for your waxing services is crucial to building a profitable waxing business that covers expenses while generating sustainable income. 

Start by researching the current market rates for waxing services in your specific location, as prices can vary significantly based on regional economics. Calculate your direct service costs, including professional wax products, disposable supplies, pre and post-wax care items, and the prorated cost of equipment use, then add your desired hourly rate plus a profit margin of at least 30-50%. 

Consider tiered pricing strategies based on service complexity and time required. While it may be tempting to offer deep discounts when first starting your waxing business, avoid undervaluing your services as this establishes price expectations that are difficult to raise later. Instead, consider strategic introductory offers for new clients or package deals that encourage booking multiple services. Regularly review and adjust your pricing structure as your expertise grows.

What are the most effective marketing strategies for a new waxing business?

Marketing a new waxing business effectively requires a multi-channel approach that builds brand awareness and attracts your target clientele. 

Start by creating a professional website optimized for local SEO with keywords related to waxing services in your area, making it easier for potential clients to find you when searching online. 

Establish a strong social media presence on platforms like Instagram and TikTok where you can showcase before-and-after results (with client permission), share skincare and hair removal tips, and promote special offers for your waxing services. 

Implement an email marketing strategy to stay connected with clients, sending appointment reminders, aftercare instructions, and exclusive promotions to encourage repeat bookings. 

Consider offering specialized services that set you apart from competitors and highlight these specialties in all marketing materials. Create a returning client and client referral program that rewards existing customers and those who bring new clients to your waxing business. Finally, focus on collecting and showcasing positive client reviews on Google, Yelp, and social media.

How do I choose the right location for my waxing business?

Selecting the optimal location is a critical decision when starting a waxing business that can significantly impact your profitability and client acquisition. 

Consider multiple business models before committing: a standalone waxing salon offers brand independence but higher overhead costs; renting a booth or room in an established salon provides built-in foot traffic with lower startup costs; or a mobile waxing business that brings services to clients' homes offers flexibility with minimal facility expenses. 

When evaluating potential fixed locations, prioritize areas with demographics that match your target clientele; analyze neighborhood income levels, age ranges, and lifestyle patterns to ensure alignment with your service offerings and pricing strategy. Accessibility factors including parking availability, public transportation proximity, and ground-floor access can significantly influence client convenience and satisfaction. 

Assess the competitive landscape by mapping existing waxing businesses, spas, and salons offering similar services within a 3-5 mile radius to identify market gaps or oversaturation.