124 · Offering In-Home Nail Care Services

If there’s one industry that’s never in crisis, it’s the body care and beauty sector. And the idea I’m going to present here is right at its heart. Offering an in-home nail care service is an activity that has several advantages, the main one being that it requires little investment.

You can also get started very quickly and start making money from the very first days. However, starting blindly won’t always be enough, so you’ll need to establish an effective strategy to maximize your chances of success. And that’s precisely what we’re going to look at in this article.

What is an in-home nail care service?

An in-home nail care service involves offering manicure and pedicure treatments directly at the clients’ homes, so they don’t have to travel to a salon. In practice, you go wherever your clients are, armed with all the necessary equipment to take care of their hands and feet.

The big advantage for the client is flexibility that comes with home services. They don’t have to deal with travel, traffic jams, or block off half a day to visit a salon. Moreover, some people are physically unable to get around (illness, disability, old age), and a home service becomes the ideal solution for them, allowing them to enjoy quality care without leaving their home.

On your side, this offers organizational freedom and reduced overhead costs. By working at home, you avoid expenses related to renting a space, electricity, or other fees that a traditional salon has to bear. This flexibility lets you tailor your hours to fit your availability and your clients’ needs, allowing for better schedule management. Additionally, it enables you to foster a more personal relationship with your clients, offering them a more intimate and personalized experience, which is often greatly appreciated.

And contrary to what one might think, this type of service is far from being a niche reserved for an elite social class. Indeed, in-home nail care services are increasingly in demand because they meet the growing need for flexibility and comfort.

A manicure session with a close-up of the hands One of the major advantages of this type of service is that it requires little equipment to work, making travel easier.

Is it better to open a nail bar?

A nail bar is a space dedicated exclusively to nail care, offering quick and diverse services. These establishments stand out for their modern and friendly atmosphere, often located in shopping centers or lively city neighborhoods. They have become increasingly popular in recent years, meeting the growing demand for fast and walk-in beauty treatments, with a wide range of styles and techniques available.

Opening a nail bar provides the opportunity to reach a diverse clientele thanks to a strategic location and to offer express services, highly sought after by busy clients. It’s also an excellent way to build a brand and cultivate a loyal customer base.

However, it involves a higher financial investment than a home-based activity, as well as fixed costs related to renting and managing a space. Additionally, competition can be intense in major cities, requiring a constant effort in innovation and quality to stand out.

In this article, I mainly focus on home-based manicure services, but opening a nail bar can also be an interesting option. That’s why I’m mentioning it here briefly, so you can decide if it’s more advantageous for your situation.

A nail bar in a shopping mall An option that can be very interesting is to open a pop-up store in a shopping center. It’s much cheaper than opening a traditional store, it’s temporary, and it allows you to see if there is real demand for this type of service in your area.

What skills are required to get started?

Contrary to what some people think, being able to apply nail polish without going over the edge does not make you a professional. If you’re considering starting this activity, it’s essential to have a set of technical and interpersonal skills.

First, the key technical skills. In addition to being able to apply polish perfectly, you also need to know how to care for cuticles, properly file nails, master techniques for applying semi-permanent polish or gel nails, and nail art decoration. These skills require precision and patience. If you’re a beginner, be aware that there are specific training courses that allow you to acquire these skills quickly.

Beauty schools, private institutes, or even online courses offer certification programs. By taking these courses, you’ll learn how to master tools and techniques, as well as understand the hygiene standards essential for providing safe and quality care. I’ve compiled a list of popular training platforms, but for in-person courses, I recommend doing a localized Google search.

  • Udemy is an online learning platform offering a vast array of courses in various fields, accessible to anyone, anywhere. It includes numerous training options related to nail care, from basic manicure techniques to advanced nail art and professional skills.
  • Cursa.app is an online education platform that offers a variety of free courses, including in the beauty sector. Their “Nail Care” course covers essential skills, from basic techniques to advanced nail art, perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
  • Olena Oezman, a five-time Global Champion, offers online courses that teach the art of creating flawless nails. Her classes cover a range of topics, including Russian Manicure, Dry E-File Manicure, Express Manicure, skin type assessment, and advanced sculpturing techniques.
  • Courses for Success is an online platform offering a wide range of courses designed to enhance professional skills, including in the beauty industry. Their nail care courses focus on essential techniques, from basic manicures to advanced nail artistry, catering to both beginners and experienced professionals.
  • Glitterbels offers convenient online nail training through a virtual classroom, perfect for those unable to attend in-person sessions. With courses available seven days a week via Zoom, their award-winning educators provide top-notch training, and successful completion earns you an ABT-accredited, industry-recognized certificate.
  • The Online Beauty Courses is a platform that specializes in online beauty training, offering a variety of courses for those looking to enter the beauty industry or expand their skills. Their courses include nail care, providing comprehensive training on techniques like manicure, nail extensions, and advanced nail art, all accessible from the comfort of your home.
  • YouTube is the ideal place to find tutorials on specific nail care topics. No certification training here, but it’s free.

Whichever training path you choose, it’s essential to practice your new skills intensively. At first, your work might resemble the set of a post-apocalyptic movie, but keep at it because practice is the only way to improve quickly.

Interpersonal skills are also crucial in this line of work. When you work from home, you’re stepping into your clients’ private spaces, which calls for discretion, active listening, and a genuine sense of service. It’s essential for your clients to feel comfortable and confident in your presence. It’s about creating a warm, personalized relationship where you understand each person’s needs and know how to meet them professionally. Don’t forget that a satisfied client will call you back, but more importantly, they will talk about you to others.

Finally, to manage your business effectively, it’s useful to acquire some management and marketing skills. You’ll need to know how to create a budget, set your prices, and especially promote your services. Digital communication skills, such as managing social media or creating a website, will be valuable in attracting your first clients.

For women and men

It’s important to emphasize that the in-home nail care business isn’t just for women. More and more men are taking care of their hands and feet, whether for aesthetic reasons, hygiene, or well-being (opening beer cans all day can damage nails), and they are just as likely to seek out manicure or pedicure services.

Similarly, this activity is not just for women as professionals. Men can absolutely enter this field and find real professional fulfillment. Beauty and nail care know no gender, and this industry offers opportunities for those who want to get involved, regardless of identity or gender.

A man prepares to cut his fingernails with a gardening tool Ladies, if this is how you imagine a man cutting his nails, think again. 😋 Just like you, we have more subtle and effective methods!

How to start an in-home nail care service

Now, let’s look at the main steps to get started and help you structure your project.

1Train and acquire the necessary skills

The first step to getting started is to train in manicure, pedicure, and nail application techniques. Even if you have natural talent, it’s essential to follow quality training to master the technical aspects and hygiene standards.

2Acquire the right equipment and products

Once trained, you’ll need to get equipped. Fortunately, in-home nail care doesn’t require a huge investment. You’ll need basic tools such as files, scissors, cuticle clippers, polishes (classic and semi-permanent), a UV/LED lamp for gel polish, as well as nail care and maintenance products.

It’s important to invest in quality equipment as it directly affects customer satisfaction. Also, consider a practical and professional travel kit to safely transport your equipment.

3Declare your business and choose a legal status

To legally start your service, it’s important to officially declare your business. Most countries offer simplified statuses for small businesses or freelancers, suited for in-home activities. These statuses often allow for simplified accounting and advantageous tax regimes, ideal for starting without too many administrative constraints.

You’ll need to find out about the necessary procedures in your country, either through government agencies or online platforms dedicated to entrepreneurs. Also, consider taking out professional liability insurance to protect your business in case of disputes or accidents during your services.

4Set your prices and define your offer

This involves determining your prices based on competition, product costs, and your time. Research the prices in your area and adjust your offer accordingly. Think about offering several packages tailored to your clients’ needs: basic care, complete manicures, nail applications with decorations, etc. You can also offer loyalty packages or promotional offers to attract new clients and encourage them to come back regularly.

5Promote your business and find your first clients

Once everything is set up, it’s time to get your name out there. Social networks are an excellent way to promote your services. Create professional accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest to share photos of your work, testimonials from satisfied clients, and your promotional offers.

Creating a simple website can also be beneficial; it serves as a showcase for your services and allows clients to book appointments online. Don’t forget to spread the word about your business, as word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool. To get started, offering your services to friends or acquaintances can be a good way to gather positive reviews and build an initial client base.

6Organize and plan your travel

Working from home requires efficient organization, especially if you plan to visit multiple clients in a day. Plan your trips by grouping appointments by geographic area to optimize your time and travel expenses. Use a digital or paper planner to record your appointments and ensure smooth scheduling. Punctuality and rigor in managing appointments are obviously key elements that you’ll need to absolutely respect.

At your place?

It’s entirely possible to offer nail care at your home by transforming a room in your house into a dedicated space for your clients. This has several advantages, including reducing travel, better control over your work environment, and the ability to create a personalized ambiance. Hosting clients at your home also allows you to better manage your schedule and avoid travel costs.

Of course, there are some trade-offs, such as the need to keep the space impeccably clean at all times and to ensure a certain level of privacy and discretion for your clients. Perhaps considering both options (at your place and home visits) would be useful?

What types of services can be offered?

Offering a range of services that meet the varied needs and expectations of your clients is essential. This will allow you to reach a broader audience and cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some service ideas to include in your offer:

  • Classic manicure: cleaning, filing, cuticle care, and application of classic polish. This is a basic service that attracts many clients looking for quick and affordable care.
  • Semi-permanent manicure: this service includes the classic steps but with the application of semi-permanent polish that lasts longer and requires a UV or LED lamp. Very popular with clients who want a more lasting result than a Netflix series they’ve abandoned.
  • Gel or resin nail application: this technique allows for extending and strengthening natural nails. It’s a service often requested by clients wanting longer nails or those with fragile nails.
  • Nail art: if you have an artistic sense, offering nail decorations (rhinestones, patterns, and freehand drawings) can really set you apart from the competition. This service is aimed at clients who want unique and personalized nails.
  • Pedicure: in addition to manicures, offering foot care (baths, cuticle care, filing, and polish application) broadens your clientele. Many clients like to combine the two services for a complete treatment.
  • Nail repair treatment: for clients with damaged or weakened nails, a repair treatment with specific products can be very appealing. Offering tips for nail care between appointments also reinforces your expertise.

Other services?

In addition to nail care, it’s entirely possible to diversify your offer by offering other types of beauty and wellness services. For example, you could add services such as facials, hand or foot massages, or even waxing.

Some professionals also opt for makeup services for special events or even image consulting. By expanding your range of services, you can attract a wider clientele and offer combined packages, which increases your attractiveness and potential income.

A man's hand massages a woman's hand Learning how to massage hands or feet is fairly quick and can provide a true moment of relaxation for your clients.

How to attract your first clients

I briefly mentioned it earlier, but this question deserves a full section, as it is crucial for the success of your business. Attracting your first clients requires some work and persistence, but by choosing the right strategies, you can quickly gain visibility and kick start your business on solid foundations.

Word of mouth

There is nothing more powerful than direct recommendation. If you are just starting out, first offer your services to friends, family, and acquaintances. Offer them quality services at a reduced price in exchange for honest feedback and, most importantly, recommendations to their networks. This initial circle is essential for getting started because people tend to trust personal recommendations more than an advertisement. A satisfied client is an invaluable ambassador for your business.

Using social media to get noticed

Nowadays, it’s almost impossible to avoid the influence of social media. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc. These are ideal platforms to showcase your creations and draw attention. Regularly post pictures of your work, before-and-after shots, and even videos of some techniques you’ve mastered. Social media doesn’t just help you show off your work; they also allow you to build a community around your business. Interact with your followers, answer questions, and offer exclusive promotions to your followers to encourage them to book appointments.

Offering promotions

When launching your business, offering special deals can be an excellent way to attract your first clients. Consider providing discounts on initial services, creating bundled packages (manicure + pedicure at a reduced price), or implementing referral offers where clients receive benefits for recommending others. The goal is to encourage people to try your services and discover you without feeling like they are taking a risk.

Creating a simple and professional website

Although social media is effective, having a professional website adds a touch of credibility. There’s no need to create a complex site: a simple page with your services, examples of your work, your prices, and above all, an easy way to book will suffice. You can also include client testimonials to enhance your reputation. A website is also a great asset for appearing in local Google searches, which can attract new clients.

Registering on local or specialized platforms

There are online platforms where clients look for in-home service providers, whether for beauty, wellness, or other services. Register on these platforms to gain visibility in your geographic area. These sites allow you to reach clients who don’t know you and increase your chances of getting new bookings. To find them, do a search for “service provider directory” + the name of your location on Google.

Don’t underestimate the power of client reviews

Online reviews have become a major decision-making factor for many consumers. Encourage your first satisfied clients to leave reviews on your professional pages (social media, website, or review platforms). The more positive feedback you receive, the more it will build trust among future clients. Be responsive and reply to these reviews, whether they are positive or constructive.

Nails decorated with brightly colored patterns Painting designs on nails requires real artistic talent, but if you don’t have any, know that pre-decorated fake nails are easily available in stores.

Tips and tricks

Let’s wrap up with a series of practical tips that should help you maximize your chances of success.

  • Create a relaxing atmosphere: When visiting clients at home, bring a small element that transforms the space into a relaxing place, like a scented candle or soft music on a portable speaker. This will make the experience more pleasant for your clients.
  • Offer themed packages: Set up special offers around seasonal themes or special events (weddings, holidays, Valentine’s Day, etc.). This encourages clients to book for specific occasions and increases the perceived value of your services.
  • Give a small surprise after each treatment: Building loyalty often comes from small, unexpected gestures. Offering your clients a mini bottle of nail polish or a hand balm after each treatment can leave a very positive impression and keep them coming back.
  • Keep an emergency kit: Always have a small kit of tools and products to repair or touch up nails in case of a problem (break, smudge, etc.). This demonstrates your professionalism and reassures the client in case of an issue.
  • Take professional-quality photos: The quality of the photos and videos you post on your social media and website is very important. Use good lighting and a simple background to highlight your various manicure works.
  • Provide personalized advice: Take a few minutes after each appointment to give your clients advice tailored to their nail type. Recommend care between visits or products to use. This extra attention enhances your image as a competent and caring professional.
  • Automate appointment reminders: To avoid cancellations or missed appointments, use apps or services that automatically send reminders to your clients the day before their appointment. This improves your organization and reduces gaps in your schedule.
  • Vary your nail polish selection: Even if you have your staples, regularly try to offer limited collections or shades that your clients won’t find everywhere. This exclusivity enhances the appeal of your services and builds loyalty among clients who like to keep up with trends.

Conclusion

To conclude, this article has shown that it is entirely possible to start an in-home nail care service with little investment and skills that can be quickly acquired. We’ve seen the key steps, from training to promotion, and finally the importance of personalizing your services and offering a quality experience to your clients.

Success in this activity is primarily based on organization, the passion you have for nail care, and good management of relationships with your clients. Careful service, a pleasant ambiance, and keeping up with market trends are the essential points for standing out and building client loyalty. Starting an in-home nail care service is also an opportunity to diversify your services and stay attuned to clients’ needs. This flexibility, combined with a professional approach, will put you on the path to success.

What you should remember is that the wellness and beauty sector at home is booming. Clients are increasingly seeking tailor-made services that are convenient and adapted to their needs. If you can meet this growing demand while adding your personal touch, you have every chance of developing a thriving business. The key is to stay attentive to market developments and client expectations while staying true to the quality of your services.

What do you think of this idea? Have you ever considered starting an in-home nail care service? What attracts you to this job, or conversely, what are the barriers that make you hesitate? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments.

EcoTips

Environmental and climate change issues are more than ever at the heart of the concerns of this 21st century, which is why I am proposing a few ideas that will enable you to limit the negative impact that the implementation of this idea could have.

These solutions that I suggest are sometimes largely insufficient to compensate for these negative impacts, such as carbon offsetting. Unfortunately, there is not always an ideal and 100% efficient solution, far from it. And if you have others, please do not hesitate to share them in the comments below.

in-home nail care might seem like it has no direct environmental impact, but it actually raises several ecological concerns. The products used, such as polishes, removers, or UV gels, often contain chemicals that, when discarded, can be harmful to the environment. For example, some solvents used in nail polish removers are volatile and toxic, contributing to both indoor and outdoor air pollution. Moreover, the single-use plastic packaging of these products represents a significant source of waste.

Another issue concerns energy consumption. UV/LED lamps, while effective for applying semi-permanent polish or gel nails, require regular electricity use. Though this consumption is relatively low on an individual scale, the accumulation of these daily actions, multiplied by many professionals, can represent a significant energy footprint.

However, there are concrete solutions to minimize these impacts. First, as a practitioner, you can opt for more environmentally-friendly products. Specialized brands now offer non-toxic, biodegradable, or even vegan polishes and treatments. By choosing these options, you reduce not only the risks to the planet but also to your clients’ and your own health.

Reducing waste also involves buying in bulk to limit packaging or using reusable materials. For example, you could replace some single-use accessories with washable and versions that can be disinfected. Additionally, sorting waste, recycling what can be, and properly disposing of chemicals is a simple but effective way to reduce your impact.

At the same time, you can adopt practices that reduce your energy consumption. For example, choose low-energy LED lamps or opt for rechargeable, non-electric solutions whenever possible. Switching to renewable energy for your home is also an option to consider, thus contributing to a more eco-friendly business model.

Pros

  • Flexible hours, allowing you to organize your time freely.
  • Low financial investment compared to other trades.
  • Development of artistic and manual skills.
  • No need for commercial premises, reducing fixed costs.

Cons

  • Need for rigorous organization to manage unexpected events and cancellations.
  • Full responsibility for promoting and finding clients.
  • Physical impact on hands and back over time.
  • Variable income depending on the season and demand.
Disclaimer, please read this

Legal and administrative aspects of the ideas you'll find on Sweekr are rarely discussed because they vary greatly depending on the country you live in. I would advise you to check with your local adminitration before starting any business. Keep in mind that if you make money, the state will ask for "its share" in order to guarantee the proper functioning of schools, hospitals and other public services. Therefore, you will probably have to acquire a micro-entrepreneur status, or any other similar.

Please also note that there are currently NO affiliate links on Sweekr! This means that NO commission is charged when you make a purchase from any of the sites recommended here. Some links are optimized for performance testing only, and each recommendation reflects the opinions or evaluations of the writer of this article. And be sure you'll be notified if (and when) this situation ever changes.

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