- 1. Hair Salons: The Industry’s Backbone
- 2. Beauty Salons: All-in-One Beauty Hubs
- 3. Nail Salons: Creativity Meets Precision
- 4. Spa Salons: Wellness And Relaxation
- 5. Medi-Spas: Where Beauty Meets Science
- 6. Barbershops: Tradition With A Modern Twist
- 7. Tanning Salons: A Year-Round Glow
- 8. Brow And Lash Studios: Precision Beauty
- 9. Specialty Salons: Unique Niches, Big Opportunities
- 10. Children’s Salons: Fun And Functional
- 11. Mobile Salons: Beauty On The Go
- 12. Holistic Wellness Centers: Ancient Techniques, Modern Appeal
- 13. Fitness and Wellness Centers: Beauty And Health In Harmony
- Bringing Your Salon Vision To Life With Spa & Equipment
- FAQ
Imagine a space where your creativity meets your clients’ confidence—a place that reflects your passion and brings your vision to life. That’s what opening a salon is all about.
The beauty industry offers endless opportunities to build something unique. From hair salons to holistic wellness centers, every salon type has its own story and purpose. The key is finding the one that matches your goals.
Why does this matter to you?
- The right salon type helps you stand out in a crowded market.
- It shapes your services, branding, and customer loyalty.
- It makes your investment focused and rewarding.
At Spa & Equipment, we’ve spent over two decades helping professionals turn their dreams into reality. Whether you’re opening your first salon or expanding your services, knowing your options is the first step.
This guide will walk you through the most popular salon types, what makes each one unique, and how to get started. Ready to find the perfect fit for your business?
Let’s explore!
1. Hair Salons: The Industry’s Backbone
Hair salons are the heart of the beauty industry. They offer essential services like haircuts, styling, coloring, and treatments that cater to a wide range of clients.
The U.S. hair salon market earned $49.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $53.3 billion by 2028. Haircutting and styling make up the largest share, followed by hair coloring, product sales, and other services. With over 953,000 salons, competition is strong.
From quick trims to transformative makeovers, these salons thrive on creativity and connection.
Source:SharpSheets
| Why Start a Hair Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Hair services are always in demand, making it a stable business choice. | Core Equipment:Styling chairs, shampoo stations, hair dryers, and quality scissors. |
| You can cater to diverse clients, from everyday walk-ins to bridal parties. | Products: Stock shampoos, conditioners, and treatments tailored to your clientele. |
| There’s room to grow—expand into specialty services like extensions or scalp treatments. | Ambiance: Create a welcoming space with good lighting and comfortable seating. |
Pro Tip: Stay ahead of trends by offering popular services like balayage or keratin treatments. Clients love a salon that’s on the cutting edge of style and care.
Also, read:
- 99+ Hair Salon Names to Inspire Your Business Transformation
- Creating Your Hair Salon Business Plan: A Roadmap to Success
2. Beauty Salons: All-in-One Beauty Hubs
Beauty salons are where clients come to feel refreshed, pampered, and confident. These versatile spaces offer a range of services, from facials and waxing to makeup application and skincare treatments. They’re perfect for clients who want an all-inclusive beauty experience.
| Why Start a Beauty Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Attracts a broad clientele, from skincare enthusiasts to event-goers. | Core Equipment: Facial beds, magnifying lamps, wax warmers, and high-quality skincare products. |
| Offers seasonal packages or specials for weddings and holidays. | Skilled Staff: Hire licensed estheticians and beauticians to provide expert care. |
| Scalable business with potential to expand into advanced skincare or makeup services. | Relaxing Environment: Invest in soothing decor, calming scents, and comfortable furniture. |
Pro Tip: Offer consultations to educate clients about skincare routines and the best treatments for their needs. Personalization builds trust and loyalty.
Also read:
- Best Practices in Beauty Salon Management: Mastering the Art
- Beauty Salon Marketing 101: Strategies for Growth
3. Nail Salons: Creativity Meets Precision
Nail salons are thriving hubs of artistry and care, offering manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, and intricate nail art. The global nail salon market was valued at $11 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 8% from 2023 to 2030.
Source:Grandviewresearch
These salons are known for their high client turnover and relatively low setup costs, making them an attractive option for new entrepreneurs.
| Why Start a Nail Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Nail care is a growing trend, with clients seeking both quick touch-ups and detailed designs. | Core Equipment: Manicure tables, pedicure chairs, UV curing lamps, and sterilizers for tools. |
| Flexible business model—can operate in a dedicated space or compact setup. | Products: Stock a variety of polishes, gels, and nail care essentials to meet client preferences. |
| Seasonal promotions, like holiday nail art, can boost revenue. | Ambiance: Create a clean and inviting space with good ventilation and organized workstations. |
Pro Tip: Offer eco-friendly or vegan nail products to attract conscious consumers. It’s a growing market segment with high loyalty potential.
Also read:
- 520+ Cute & Classy Nail Salon Names You Can Use in 2024
- How to Start a Nail Business: 9 Steps to Build a Successful Nail Salon from Scratch
4. Spa Salons: Wellness And Relaxation
Spa salons are sanctuaries for wellness, offering services like massages, body scrubs, facials, and aromatherapy. These spaces focus on relaxation and holistic care, attracting clients who prioritize self-care and mental well-being.
| Why Start a Spa Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| The wellness industry is booming, with more clients seeking stress-relief services. | Core Equipment: Massage tables, salon lamps, hydrotherapy systems, and aromatherapy tools. |
| Spas cater to a wide audience, including individuals, couples, and groups. | Tranquil Atmosphere: Focus on soft lighting, soothing music, and a calming color palette. |
| Premium packages, like bridal spa days, can increase revenue. | Skilled Professionals: Hire licensed massage therapists and estheticians to deliver quality services. |
Pro Tip: Offer add-ons like hot stone massages or detoxifying body wraps to enhance the client experience. Small upgrades can significantly boost your profits.
Also read:
- How to Communicate a Salon Price Increase Notice with Tact and Transparency
- 10 Salon Interior Design Trends to Elevate Your Space
5. Medi-Spas: Where Beauty Meets Science
Medi-spas combine advanced medical-grade skincare with the luxury of a spa experience. They offer treatments like Botox, chemical peels, laser therapies, and other non-invasive cosmetic procedures, bridging the gap between relaxation and results-driven beauty care. A single medical spa earns about $121,632 per month.
In 2022, the average annual revenue was $1.98 million, up from $1.72 million in 2021 and $1.53 million in 2018.
Source:American Med Spa Association
| Why Start a Medi-Spa? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Clients increasingly seek non-surgical solutions for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging. | Core Equipment:Laser and IPL machines, microdermabrasion devices, and oxygen infusion systems. |
| High-margin business that attracts clients willing to invest in premium treatments. | Qualified Staff: Employ licensed medical professionals, such as dermatologists or certified estheticians. |
| Establishes credibility by combining aesthetics with professional medical oversight. | Sterile Environment: Adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to build trust and maintain compliance. |
Pro Tip: Partner with skincare brands to retail post-treatment products. This adds value to your services while boosting your bottom line.
Also read:
- The Ultimate Checklist for Opening a Medical Spa
- Med Spa Requirements: Ensuring Your Facility Meets Industry Standards
6. Barbershops: Tradition With A Modern Twist
Barbershops are timeless spaces focused on men’s grooming, offering services like haircuts, beard trims, shaves, and scalp treatments. With a balance of tradition and innovation, barbershops can cater to a diverse clientele, including men looking for luxury grooming experiences.
| Why Start a Barbershop? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Men’s grooming is a growing market, with a demand for personalized services. | Core Equipment:Barber chairs, straight razors, clippers, and hot towel machines. |
| Traditional elements like hot towel shaves create a unique experience clients value. | Ambiance: Create a welcoming vibe with comfortable seating and sleek decor. |
| A strong community feel helps build loyal, repeat customers. | Skilled Staff: Experienced barbers who excel in precision cuts and shaves. |
Pro Tip: Consider offering memberships for regular services, like monthly cuts or beard grooming. This ensures consistent cash flow and client loyalty.
Also read:Choosing the Best Barber Chairs for Comfort, Style, and Durability
Unique Ideas for Your New Barber Shop: Fresh Inspirations
7. Tanning Salons: A Year-Round Glow
Tanning salons specialize in helping clients achieve a sun-kissed glow, no matter the season. Whether offering traditional tanning beds or spray tanning options, these salons cater to clients preparing for special events or maintaining a bronzed appearance year-round.
| Why Start a Tanning Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| The tanning industry attracts loyal customers who return regularly for upkeep. | Core Equipment: Tanning beds, spray tan machines, and protective eyewear. |
| Spray tanning has grown in popularity as a safer alternative to UV tanning. | Quality Products: Use safe, high-quality tanning solutions tailored to various skin tones. |
| Offering memberships or packages can create steady, predictable income. | Ambiance: Create a relaxing environment with soft lighting and private tanning rooms. |
Pro Tip: Include educational materials about safe tanning practices to build trust and highlight your commitment to client safety.
Also read:
- Essential Rules Every Salon Should Follow: Set the Standard!
- Effective Employee Policies for Your Salon to Implement
8. Brow And Lash Studios: Precision Beauty
Brow and lash studios focus on enhancing clients’ natural beauty with services like eyebrow shaping, lash extensions, microblading, and tinting. The lash extension market was valued at $1.36 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow to $2.31 billion by 2028.
These specialized salons attract clients who value detail-oriented beauty treatments that make a lasting impact.
| Why Start a Brow and Lash Studio? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| The demand for semi-permanent makeup and lash enhancements is steadily increasing. | Core Equipment: Precision tools, lash adhesives, professional pigments, and sterilization supplies. |
| Clients often book repeat appointments for upkeep, creating a reliable revenue stream. | Expert Staff: Train technicians in the latest techniques like microblading and hybrid lash extensions. |
| This niche business can be operated in smaller spaces, reducing overhead costs. | Calm Environment: Create a space that feels private and inviting for delicate beauty procedures. |
Pro Tip: Offer combination packages for brows and lashes, such as tinting and extensions, to maximize each client’s appointment.
9. Specialty Salons: Unique Niches, Big Opportunities
Specialty salons cater to specific needs or preferences, offering tailored services like ethnic hair care, eco-friendly treatments, or bridal styling. These salons attract loyal customers who value expertise and unique experiences that align with their personal style or values.
| Why Start a Specialty Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| Niche markets are less saturated, allowing you to stand out. | Core Equipment: Select tools and products tailored to your niche, such as organic hair treatments or bridal styling kits. |
| Clients seeking specialized services are often willing to pay premium prices. | Personalized Space: Design your salon to reflect the unique services you offer. |
| You can create a brand identity that reflects your passion or expertise. | Marketing Strategy: Highlight your specialty through storytelling, social media, and client testimonials. |
Pro Tip: Build partnerships with complementary businesses, such as wedding planners for bridal salons or wellness brands for eco-friendly salons, to attract more clients.
10. Children’s Salons: Fun And Functional
Children’s salons provide kid-friendly grooming services, offering haircuts, styling, and fun experiences designed to make kids (and parents) feel at ease. These salons often feature playful decor and entertainment, making them a hit with families.
| Why Start a Children’s Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| There’s a growing demand for specialized spaces where kids feel comfortable. | Core Equipment: Child-sized styling chairs, safety scissors, and gentle hair products. |
| Parents appreciate the convenience of a salon tailored to their children’s needs. | Kid-Friendly Features: Incorporate toys, TVs, or games to keep kids entertained during services. |
| Creative elements, like themed interiors, create a memorable experience that encourages repeat visits. | Skilled Staff: Stylists who are patient and experienced with young clients. |
Pro Tip: Offer themed haircut packages, such as “Princess Day” or “Superhero Style,” to make the experience extra special for children and parents alike.
Also read:
11. Mobile Salons: Beauty On The Go
Mobile salons bring professional beauty services directly to clients, offering unmatched convenience. Industry research shows that mobile hair salons typically have a net profit margin of 15% to 25%. This means owners keep 15 to 25 cents of every dollar earned after covering all expenses.
Whether it’s hairstyling, makeup, or nail care, mobile setups are perfect for on-location services like weddings, photoshoots, or house calls for busy professionals.
| Why Start a Mobile Salon? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| It’s a flexible business model with lower overhead costs than a traditional salon. | Core Equipment: Portable styling tools, compact workstations, and professional-grade kits. |
| Mobile services cater to a growing market of clients seeking at-home convenience. | Reliable Transportation: Invest in a vehicle large enough to accommodate your tools and supplies. |
| Ideal for tapping into niche events like bridal parties or corporate wellness days. | Online Booking System: Make it easy for clients to schedule appointments through an app or website. |
Pro Tip: Focus on building a strong online presence and glowing client reviews to stand out in this competitive space.
Also read:
12. Holistic Wellness Centers: Ancient Techniques, Modern Appeal
Holistic wellness centers embrace natural and alternative therapies, offering services like Ayurveda, acupuncture, herbal treatments, and aromatherapy. These spaces focus on aligning beauty with overall health and well-being.
| Why Start a Holistic Wellness Center? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| There’s a rising demand for natural and eco-friendly beauty treatments. | Core Equipment: Treatment beds, herbal steamers, and natural product lines. |
| Clients seek personalized care that addresses both inner and outer beauty. | Qualified Practitioners: Hire experts in alternative therapies like Ayurveda or aromatherapy. |
| It allows you to combine ancient techniques with modern wellness trends. | Peaceful Atmosphere: Use natural elements like greenery and soft lighting to create a calming space. |
Pro Tip: Offer workshops or classes, such as yoga or mindfulness, to attract clients and build a wellness community.
13. Fitness And Wellness Centers: Beauty And Health In Harmony
Fitness and wellness centers combine beauty treatments with fitness services like gym facilities, personal training, and nutritional guidance. These centers attract health-conscious clients looking for a one-stop solution to their self-care routines.
| Why Start a Fitness and Wellness Center? | What You’ll Need to Get Started |
| It appeals to a growing audience that values both beauty and physical well-being. | Core Equipment: Gym machines, massage tables, and skincare tools. |
| Combining services creates multiple revenue streams, from memberships to spa treatments. | Qualified Staff: Employ personal trainers, estheticians, and nutritionists to deliver well-rounded services. |
| Clients appreciate the convenience of having beauty and fitness in one location. | Multi-Purpose Space: Design areas for fitness, relaxation, and treatments. |
Pro Tip: Introduce loyalty programs or membership packages that include access to both fitness and beauty services.
Bringing Your Salon Vision To Life With Spa & Equipment
The beauty industry offers endless opportunities to create a unique and thriving salon. From hair salons to wellness centers, finding the right niche can help you build a space that reflects your passion and meets client needs.
At Spa & Equipment, we’re here to help you every step of the way. With over two decades of experience, we offer a vast selection of salon equipment and salon tools, including styling chairs, salon lamps, and facial steamers.
Our flexible financing options, warranties, and exclusive Pro Member benefits—like free shipping and 30% off SkinAct products—make it easy to start or expand your business.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Explore our selection and discover current offers today!
FAQ
1. What are the most profitable types of beauty salons to consider?
The profitability of a beauty salon depends on location, services offered, and target audience. Medi-spas, nail salons, and hair salons often generate high revenue due to consistent demand and opportunities for upselling premium services.
2. How do I choose the right beauty salon type for my business?
Start by identifying your skills, passion, and target audience. Research market demand in your area for specific beauty salon types and consider your budget for equipment and staff.
3. Can I combine multiple types of beauty salons under one roof?
Yes, hybrid salons that offer services like hair styling, nail care, and skincare are popular and attract a diverse clientele. Just ensure your space, equipment, and staff can accommodate multiple offerings.
4. What licenses or certifications are required for different types of beauty salons?
Licensing requirements vary by location and the salon type. For example, hair salons require cosmetology licenses, while medi-spas may need medical oversight or certifications for advanced treatments.
5. How can I differentiate my salon from other types of beauty salons in a competitive market?
Focus on creating a unique brand identity, offering personalized services, and keeping up with industry trends. For example, eco-friendly salons or those specializing in niche markets like lash extensions or bridal styling can stand out.
6. What are some current trends influencing types of beauty salons?
Trends include sustainable beauty practices, at-home mobile salons, holistic wellness centers, and tech-enhanced services like virtual consultations or advanced skincare treatments.
7. What’s the average cost to start different types of beauty salons?
Startup costs vary depending on the salon type. A nail salon might require a lower investment than a medi-spa due to differences in equipment and certifications.
8. How can I attract clients to my specific types of beauty salons?
Invest in targeted marketing strategies, such as social media campaigns, referral programs, and local advertising. Highlight your unique services and any special offers or memberships you provide.
9. Can I expand my beauty salon type into a franchise?
Yes, many salon owners grow their businesses into franchises, especially if they establish a strong brand and consistent service quality. Hair salons and nail salons are common franchises.
10. Are there beauty salon types that cater to specific demographics?
Yes, specialty salons focus on niche demographics, such as children’s salons, ethnic hair care salons, or bridal salons. These cater to specific needs and often build strong client loyalty.
