Starting your own beauty business is an incredibly exciting journey that allows you to feel in control of your career and unleash your creativity. Plus, being an independent business owner can be really rewarding and provide you with many financial and personal rewards.
But we also understand that starting your own business can be daunting. That’s why we’ve pulled together this step-by-step guide to help you kickstart your beauty business and turn your passion into a profitable venture.
What makes being a beauty therapist a good career choice?
Being a beauty therapist isn’t just a job; it’s a fulfilling career that lets you positively impact people’s lives. You get to help clients look and feel their best, boost their confidence, and even offer a relaxing escape from their busy lives. Apart from these, here are a few more reasons why being a beauty therapist is a fantastic career choice:
Interesting working environment
The beauty industry is far from boring! Unlike typical 9 to 5 jobs, working in beauty services is super fast-paced with tons of customer interaction. You’ll meet new people daily and learn on the job as you work with clients with different skin or hair types. Plus, you’ll always be in the loop with the latest fashion and beauty trends, so things never get stale.
Unlimited earning potential
As a beauty therapist, you can control your earning potential. Of course, it takes time and effort to build a loyal client base, but once you do, the sky’s the limit. You can offer a number of treatments including spray tanning, eyebrow shaping, lash extensions, makeup services, massage, waxing services or facials that cater to different budgets and charge accordingly.
Help others feel good
Being a beauty therapist is a selfless job, as you’ll be helping others feel good about themselves. Your clients might come to you feeling insecure or unhappy with their appearance, but by the end of your brow or lash treatment, rejuvenating facial, or a relaxing massage, they’ll leave feeling confident and beautiful. This sense of satisfaction is something that money can’t buy.
Flexible working hours
The benefit of having your own beauty business is that you can set your schedule and working hours. A flexible work schedule can be ideal for those with young children or who enjoy a work-life balance. You can choose to work on weekends or evenings or even offer mobile beauty services, giving you the freedom to structure your business around your lifestyle.
You can be creative
The beauty industry is all about creativity and self-expression. As a beauty therapist, you can unleash your creative side by experimenting with different makeup looks and nail designs. You can even create your signature style or offer unique services that set you apart from others in the industry.
Build new relationships
Working in the beauty industry means you’ll get to meet and interact with a wide range of people from all walks of life. As a small business owner, these relationships are crucial for building a loyal customer base and expanding your client network. Plus, it’s always nice to make new friends and connections!
What treatments do beauty therapists do?
The range of treatments you can provide is broad and exciting. You have the option to specialise in a particular service or offer a variety of treatments. Here are some of the most popular treatments you may provide as a beauty therapist.
- Facial treatments: Addresses various skin concerns, including acne, clogged pores, signs of ageing, dry skin, pigmentation, and much more
- Brows and lash: Enhance facial features by shaping and tinting brows or applying lash extensions
- Nail treatments: Acrylic, shellac, and gel nails are a few services you can offer for clients who want to keep their nails looking polished and beautiful
- Spray tan: Provide your clients with a sun-kissed glow without damaging their skin
- Waxing: Helps your clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin
- Makeup: Offer consultation services for various events, such as weddings, proms, and photoshoots
- Other pamper packages: Spa treatments to help your clients relax, rejuvenate, and re-energize
How do I become a beauty therapist?
Aspiring beauty therapists can enrol in various Beauty Courses to complete a formal qualification, such as a Certificate III in Beauty Services, a Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy, or a Diploma of Beauty Therapy.
Torrens University offers full and part-time Beauty and Dermal Therapy courses, giving you the practical skills and qualifications to help you kickstart your beauty and aesthetics career. Here are the top courses to consider:
Diploma of Beauty & Spa Practice
The Diploma of Beauty & Spa Practice is a 1-year program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of beauty and spa technologies, treatments, and practices. You’ll learn to use the latest innovations to help your clients look and feel their best, tailoring treatments to individual needs. Additionally, you can gain hands-on experience through working in their student-run clinic, The Practice Wellbeing Centre. But, beyond practical skills, this course also strengthens your professional communication abilities, allowing you to build customer confidence and boost sales.
Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics)
The Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) is a 3-year program that offers a unique combination of clinical knowledge and technical skills, providing a comprehensive foundation in preventative skin health and anti-aging dermal therapies. Students will learn the theoretical foundation in health science necessary to understand advanced skin health protocols and apply them using the most up-to-date aesthetic technology and beauty products in a student-led clinic inside the Brisbane campus.
Become a mobile beauty therapist
After finishing your course, you have the option to join a beauty salon or spa, or you can start your own business as a mobile beauty therapist.
In today’s fast-paced world, clients appreciate the convenience and comfort of bringing services to their homes. As a mobile therapist, you can set your own schedule, choose the areas you want to work in and tailor your services to meet your client’s needs.
To get your business up and running, you can join a platform like Blys, a mobile massage, beauty and wellness platform that connects beauty therapists with customers for in-home appointments. It’s a great option, especially if you’re just starting out in the industry as the platform looks after all of the admin, marketing, bookings, and customer service. This will save you time and money and help you build your client database faster.
If you choose to start your own business, It’s important to note that you’ll need to make sure you meet your local and state or territory licensing requirements before opening your own business.
Whichever path you choose, whether it’s working at a beauty salon or spa, or embarking on your journey as a mobile beauty therapist, the beauty and wellness industry offers a diverse and fulfilling career that allows you to showcase your skills and make a positive impact on your clients’ lives.
