No matter what stage your beauty business is in, it’s essential to lay the foundation (or should we say primer!) for long-lasting success.
On August 15, 2025, Beauty & Bodywork Insurance (BBI) and the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) partnered for an insightful conversation between beauty industry and insurance experts, including:
- Leslie Perry, Executive Director of PBA
- Yolanda Johnson, Licensed Beauty Professional and PBA Member
- JoAnne Hammer, Program Manager of BBI
Click the play button below to watch the recap of Start, Grow, Protect: Building a Resilient Beauty Business (With Live Q&A!) hosted by Kyle Porter.
Starting a Beauty Business
First things first, if you’re wondering if starting a beauty business is the right path for you, know that you’re in for a lot of work — with incredible payoff potential.
“I loved every second of having my own business, but it’s not for the faint of heart. We call it a ‘business of one’ at PBA. It takes a lot because you’re not only the practitioner, but you’re the one who has to learn very quickly the business side — tax, insurance, and all sides of doing the business,” said Perry.
It’s crucial to nail down the scope of your beauty business. From cosmetology to esthetics, find where your passion lies, then pursue education and licensing.
“I started off as a sole proprietor and protected myself as I needed to based on the state [rules]. Moving across states brought my attention to different laws — all kinds of things that I picked up along the way. This is something that I’ve very much been building as I go,” shared Johnson.
Finding the resources you need (and maybe didn’t know existed!) through an association like PBA can help tremendously when you’re just starting out.
“Getting involved with PBA early on in your career is a really smart move. We consult with you to help guide you through the resources that exist. We also connect you with others in the industry in your area, so you don’t ever have to feel like you’re truly alone,” added Perry.
Tips on How to Grow a Beauty Business
When it comes to building a beauty business, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed with traditional marketing, social media, and referrals! So, take it from our experts. Here are some practical tips for taking your business to the next level.
- Hire a coach: A professional coach helps you refine your business strategy. Perry shared that a coach helped her realize her ideal client base was women over the age of 40 who are dealing with skin changes. This spurred her to pivot her marketing plan from Instagram solely to other channels.
- Be resourceful: Whether it’s the Small Business Administration, local Chamber of Commerce, networking events, or free webinars, Johnson recommends soaking up all the information available to you to give your business the best chance of success.
- Don’t underestimate a good referral: Building your online presence is important, but good, old-fashioned referrals help grow your client base and give you more high-quality connections.
- Consider expanding your offering: Your beauty services are built on great products — and clients want what you recommend. Consider adding retail to your repertoire, so clients can buy on the spot, instead of purchasing them elsewhere.
“Do not underestimate the power of the good, old-fashioned referral. When I talked to licensed professionals and saw it in my own business, nine times out of 10, when a new bride contacted me about doing makeup for her wedding, it wasn’t because she was following me on Instagram or saw me somewhere.
It was ‘Oh, Lisa got married last year, and I loved her makeup,’ or ‘Someone was a bridesmaid in a wedding you did, and they loved you.’ It’s not this idea of competition, we call it ‘co-opetition’ — cooperating with one another,” shared Perry.
Protect Your Beauty Business With Insurance
Safeguarding all your hard work starts on day one. Hammer shared the two coverages every beauty business owner needs.
General Liability Insurance
General liability insurance is coverage for slip-and-fall accidents or property damage that happen at your business. It’s essential beauty business insurance that financially protects you if someone gets hurt at your studio or salon.
“General liability is for your slips, trips, and falls. Or for damaging someone’s very expensive handbag because your hot tools were too close,” explained Hammer.
Accidents can happen to any beauty professional, and this coverage is a safety net in case those what-ifs turn into costly claims.
Professional Liability Insurance
Professional liability insurance protects the service you offer if a recommendation backfires or a client’s expectations aren’t met. Say a hair color goes wrong, or a client has a bad reaction to products you’ve used — this coverage can pay to make things right.
Whether you’re a solopreneur starting out or an established salon owner, you need professional liability coverage to offer beauty services with peace of mind.
“These insurance coverages work very much hand in hand. It can sometimes be difficult to determine: is this general liability, or is this professional liability? When it’s with the same company, you don’t have to worry about who’s covering a claim, you just know you are covered. Absolutely, without a doubt, don’t go without your general and professional liability insurance,” said Hammer.
Other Coverage Add-Ons for Growing Businesses
Hammer also shared a few more coverages beauty businesses might need.
- Tools and supplies insurance (inland marine): Coverage for your movable business property in case of theft or damage
- Cyber liability insurance: Coverage for online data breaches if your clients’ sensitive information is stolen or compromised
- Salon owners insurance: Blanket protection for your salon — and entire employee or contractor team — in case of client accidents
- Commercial auto insurance: Coverage for the vehicle you use for business
BBI’s individual insurance for beauty professionals starts at $9.99 a month or $96 a year. Not sure where to start? Our licensed support team walks you through it all. Plus, they don’t work on commission — they’re simply focused on getting you the insurance help you need!
For more insights and advice on starting, growing, and protecting your beauty business, watch the full conversation today!
Ready to safeguard your beauty business now? Get covered online in under 10 minutes.
FAQs About Building a Beauty Business
What Are the First Steps to Starting a Beauty Business?
To start a beauty business:
- Decide on your area of focus (hair, skin, nails, etc.)
- Pursue education
- Get licensed
- Buy insurance coverage
- Start offering your services
What Risks Do Beauty Businesses Face Without Insurance?
Without insurance, you face risks like client injuries, property damage, professional mistakes, and more. Liability coverage for beauty professionals gives you peace of mind that you have financial support in case an accident happens.
Do I Need Insurance if I’m Just a Solo Beauty Professional or Freelancer?
Yes, you need insurance even if you’re a solo beauty professional or freelancer. Accidents (and lawsuits) can happen to anyone, regardless of the size or status of your business.
Should I Use a Waiver Form to Reduce My Liability?
Yes, you should use a waiver form after having it reviewed by a lawyer. While these can’t stop someone from suing you if a client gets injured, they can help limit your liability and reduce your risks.
