Have you ever thought about turning your passion for beauty into profitable beauty side hustles?
Let me tell you, the beauty industry is not just about eyeshadow palettes and glittery nail polishes. It’s a billion-dollar domain, promising an abundance of opportunities for anyone ready to dive in. What’s more, it offers the potential for a lucrative side hustle. Yes, a side hustle!
That’s the magic word for extra income that doesn’t interfere with your full-time job. And in the world of beauty, this side hustle can be as colorful and diverse as the industry itself.
Understanding the Beauty Business
To become a bona fide beauty maven, we need to first understand what the beauty industry encompasses. It’s not just about makeup or skincare products. It’s a broad spectrum that includes hair care, nail art, beauty therapies, beauty consulting, and even more niche areas like semi-permanent makeup and dermal fillers. Yes, beauty can run skin-deep!
Knowing the trends and opportunities in the industry can help you pick the right beauty side hustles. For instance, beauty baskets, a curated selection of beauty products, have become a hit as personalized gifts. Freelance hair stylists are seeing an increase in demand as more people opt for professional services at home. And, did you know that nail art has seen an upsurge in popularity recently, with tutorials gaining tens of thousands of views on social media?
So, whether you’re a skilled makeup artist or a nail enthusiast who loves experimenting with own nails, the beauty industry has a place for you. It’s time to turn your passion into a money-maker.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll explore some of the best beauty side hustles and how to get started on your new journey.
#1 Start Your Own Beauty Blog
Sharing your passion and expertise through a beauty blog is not only a great way to connect with like-minded people but also a fantastic side hustle opportunity. Here’s how you can get started:
Setting Up Your Beauty Blog
First things first: you need a platform to showcase your ideas. WordPress and Blogger are both great places to start if you’re a beginner. Choose a catchy and relevant blog name that’s easy to remember. Think about what you want to focus on. Will you be sharing makeup tutorials, reviewing beauty products, or discussing the latest beauty industry news? Your blog’s focus can help guide its design and layout.
Creating Engaging Content as a Beauty Writer
Your blog’s success largely depends on the quality of your content. Ensure that your posts are well-written, engaging, and packed with useful information. Use your beauty blog as a platform to share your unique perspective on beauty trends, products, and tips. Remember, as a beauty writer it’s all about adding value for your readers.
Incorporating Keywords: SEO Matters
Getting your blog seen by the right audience is crucial. That’s where Search Engine Optimization (SEO) comes in. Incorporating keywords into your posts—such as “beauty tutorials,” “makeup tutorials,” or “beauty side hustles”—can boost your blog’s visibility on search engines. However, don’t overdo it. The keywords should feel natural and not forced.
Engaging With Your Readers
Engaging with your readers is key. Respond to comments on your posts, and consider running giveaways or competitions to encourage more interaction. Engaged readers are more likely to share your posts, expanding your blog’s reach. You can also grow your readership by guest posting on other beauty blogs or inviting other bloggers to write guest posts for your blog.
Monetizing Your Beauty Blog
Once you’ve built up a decent readership, you can start thinking about monetizing your blog. There are many ways to do this, including affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and even creating and selling your own beauty products.
Becoming a successful beauty blogger won’t happen overnight. It requires passion, dedication, and consistency. But with time and effort, your beauty blog can become not just a creative outlet, but a profitable beauty side hustle as well.
#2 Be a Freelance Makeup Artist
For those with an eye for beauty and hands that create art, becoming a freelance makeup artist or a mobile hairdresser could be one of the beauty side hustles that not only brings in the extra cash but also the joy of transforming looks and lifting spirits.
Freelance Makeup Artist: Brush Up Your Skills
Did you know that being a freelance makeup artist offers more flexibility and freedom compared to a salon-based artist? You get the chance to work on various projects, from weddings to fashion shoots, and even private clients who need a glam squad at their doorstep.
This job requires a perfect blend of creativity and technical skills. Along with an eye for color and detail, you also need to understand face shapes, skin types, and how different products react under various lighting conditions.
As for potential earnings, Payscale reveals that freelance makeup artists earn an average of $20.49 per hour, and with experience and a strong portfolio, this rate can skyrocket.
Starting Tips:
1. Build a Stellar Portfolio: Make sure to take high-quality photos of every look you create. Having a diverse portfolio can attract a broader clientele.
2. Networking: Building connections with photographers, models, event planners, and others in the beauty industry can open doors to many opportunities.
3. Customer Service: Always make your clients feel special. Satisfied customers not only come back but also refer you to others.
#3 Become a Mobile Hairdresser
Being a mobile hairdresser is a bit like being a superhero. Armed with scissors, brushes, and a bag full of hair products, you travel to clients’ homes to save them from bad hair days. This job includes cutting, styling, coloring, and sometimes even offering hair treatments.
Like any other profession in the beauty industry, you need specific skills to succeed. Apart from knowing the latest hairstyles and color trends, a good understanding of hair types, textures, and the ability to advise clients on hair care are also essential.
The earnings of a mobile hairdresser can vary based on the services offered, location, and client base. However, ZipRecruiter states that freelance hair stylists earn an average hourly rate of around $22 as of 2023.
Starting Tips:
1. Get Qualified: Before you start snipping away, it’s crucial to have the right training. Consider getting a certification from a recognized beauty school.
2. Invest in Tools: You’ll need to invest in professional-grade hairdressing tools and beauty products to deliver top-notch service.
3. Insurance: As you’ll be working in various locations and using professional tools, getting insurance can save you from potential liabilities.
4. Marketing: Use social media to your advantage. Regularly post your work and use targeted ads to reach potential customers in your area.
Whether you choose to become a freelance makeup artist or mobile hairdresser, both these beauty side hustles offer a chance to fuel your passion and earn money from it.
#4 Be a Beauty Therapist
If the idea of helping others look and feel their best excites you, being a beauty therapist could be your calling. This role is all about providing treatments that enhance a client’s appearance and boost their well-being.
As a beauty therapist, your job may include a wide array of duties such as providing skincare treatments, laser hair removal, applying makeup, massage, and aromatherapy. Some therapists even offer specialized treatments like chemical peels, dermal fillers, and other advanced beauty procedures.
The skills required in this job are just as varied as the services you offer. Apart from technical skills, having a warm, friendly manner and excellent customer service skills can go a long way. You also need to be up-to-date with the latest beauty trends and products in the market.
A beauty therapist’s earnings can vary greatly based on the location and types of services provided. However, Glassdoor estimates that the average base pay for beauty therapists in the U.S is around $34,048 per year as of 2023.
Starting Tips:
1. Get Qualified: Enroll in a comprehensive beauty school program that provides training in various beauty services.
2. Choose a Specialization: While offering a variety of services can be beneficial, specializing in one or two can help you stand out. You might love giving face massages or be a pro at laser hair removal. Find your niche and excel in it.
3. Build a Client Base: This job is all about repeat customers. Provide excellent service and encourage your clients to book their next appointment before they leave.
Being a beauty therapist can be an extremely rewarding beauty side hustle. You get the satisfaction of making others feel good about themselves and the freedom to work flexible hours. It’s a win-win!
#5 Nail Art: A Canvas At Your Fingertips
Painting the Town, One Nail at a Time
Welcome to the exciting world of nail art, a beauty industry niche that lets you create mini masterpieces right at your clients’ fingertips. As a nail artist, your job revolves around not just applying nail polish, but transforming nails into works of art.
Nail art is more than just painting nails. It involves creating intricate designs, using a variety of techniques and materials. This could include hand-painted designs, airbrushing, decals, glitter, rhinestones, and more. You may also be involved in basic nail care such as manicures, pedicures, and extensions.
Got Skills?
You need steady hands, a sharp eye, and a whole lot of creativity. You also need to keep up with the latest nail art trends, styles, and techniques. Being a people person helps too, as you’ll be interacting with clients on a daily basis.
As for earnings, according to ZipRecruiter, as of 2023, nail artists in the U.S earn an average of $30,492 per year. But remember, with a strong client base and unique designs, the potential for earning more is there.
Getting Started
1. Training: Start with a course in nail technology. These courses usually cover basic nail care, manicure and pedicure techniques, and introduction to nail art. Some may also include training on extensions and nail enhancements.
2. Practice: This is a skill-based job. The more you practice, the better you get. Start practicing on your own nails, friends, or on a practice hand model.
3. Build a Portfolio: Click photos of your work and create a portfolio. This will help you showcase your talent to potential clients or employers.
4. Establish a Presence: Create a social media presence. Instagram and Pinterest are great platforms to show off your work. You never know, you might even become the next big beauty influencer in the nail art space!
In short, if you’ve got a passion for beauty and a knack for art, turning into a nail artist could be the perfect beauty side hustle for you. So grab those brushes, it’s time to paint some magic!
#6 Hair Extensions Service: Adding Length and Volume in a Snap
If you’ve been seeking hair-raising beauty side hustles, offering a hair extensions service might be the perfect fit for you. As a hair extensions specialist, you’ll be adding length and volume to your clients’ locks, making their hair dreams come true.
The job entails skillfully attaching extensions to a client’s natural hair. There are multiple methods to do this – clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, and fusion & pre-bonded hair extensions, to name a few. Your role is to advise your client on the best type of extension for their hair type, lifestyle, and budget.
Skills and Earnings
To be a successful hair extensions specialist, you’ll need a solid understanding of different hair types, color matching, and the various methods of attachment. Good manual dexterity is also essential because the work requires precision.
According to SimplyHired, as of 2023, a hair extensions specialist in the U.S earns an average of $32,468 per year. And with repeat customers being a hallmark of this industry, a well-established specialist can earn even more.
Getting Started
1. Training: It all starts with training. Look for courses that focus specifically on hair extensions. Many beauty schools offer them.
2. Get Certified: After training, you’ll want to get certified. This certification will give your clients confidence in your skills and may also be required by certain insurance providers.
3. Start Building a Client Base: Now, it’s time to get out there and start building your clientele. Begin with friends and family, then start advertising your services on social media platforms.
4. Keep Learning: The world of hair extensions is constantly evolving. Keep learning and stay up to date with new techniques and trends.
With the right training and a touch of entrepreneurial spirit, a side hustle in hair extensions can be a truly lucrative venture. Plus, it gives you a chance to help others feel great about their hair – and that’s a beauty business that’s really rewarding!
#7 Become an Eyelash Extensions Specialist
Lashing Out
Long, luscious lashes have become a must-have beauty accessory. In our quest for the perfect lash flutter, eyelash extensions have taken the beauty industry by storm. If you’ve got steady hands and an eye for detail, a side hustle as an eyelash extensions specialist might just be your calling.
As a specialist, your role is to skillfully apply individual false lashes to your client’s natural eyelashes. The job involves careful placement and gluing of each extension to create a fuller, longer lash line that feels natural and looks fabulous.
Skills and Earnings
The secret to a successful eyelash extensions specialist is in the detail. You’ll need excellent hand-eye coordination and the patience to apply each lash meticulously. Also, understanding different eye shapes and lash lengths is crucial to ensure you’re giving each client a result that flatters and enhances their natural beauty.
According to ZipRecruiter, an eyelash extensions specialist in the United States can earn an average of $54,319 per year as of 2023. This can vary greatly depending on the location, the specialist’s experience, and the clientele they serve.
Getting Started
1. Enroll in a Course: Start by finding a reputable course that will teach you all about eyelash extensions, from application techniques to safety precautions.
2. Get Certified: After completing your course, it’s time to get certified. This shows potential clients that you’ve got the training and skills necessary to do a great job.
3. Invest in Quality Products: Quality extensions and adhesives are crucial for producing great results and maintaining the health of your clients’ lashes.
4. Start Building Your Clientele: Once you’re certified and stocked up, you’re ready to start accepting clients. Offering services to friends and family can be a great starting point.
With the right skills and a dash of entrepreneurial spirit, being an eyelash extensions specialist could prove to be a lucrative beauty business. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing your clients flutter their new, gorgeous lashes is simply unbeatable!
#8 Become a Home Licensed Esthetician
Your Home, Your Beauty Clinic
If you’re passionate about skincare and transforming skin for the better, a beauty side hustle as a home licensed esthetician could be just right for you. From chemical peels to laser hair removal and dermal fillers, these services have high demand as they help clients look and feel their best. And the best part? You can offer these services from the comfort of your own home!
As a home licensed esthetician, your role is to provide various skincare treatments to your clients. This can range from facials and chemical peels to more complex procedures like dermal fillers and laser hair removal.
Skills and Earnings
Being an esthetician requires you to have a solid understanding of the skin, as well as the skills to perform different treatments safely and effectively. You’ll need to be able to recommend the right treatments for various skin conditions and types, making a sound understanding of dermatology a must.
As per PayScale, as of 2023, the average salary for an esthetician in the U.S. is about $46,810 per year, but this can be higher if you’re offering specialized services.
Getting Started
1. Get Your License: Most states require estheticians to have a license. Look into your local regulations and complete the necessary training and exams to get licensed.
2. Specialize: Consider getting additional certifications in specialized treatments like fillers or laser procedures. This can expand your service offering and increase your earnings.
3. Set Up Your Space: Make sure you have a suitable space in your home where you can perform treatments. It should be clean, comfortable, and professional-looking.
#8 Become a Personal Beauty Consultant
Be the Beauty Guru
If you have a knack for matching people with the perfect beauty products, then being a personal beauty consultant could be your ideal beauty side hustle.
As a personal beauty consultant, your role is to advise clients on the best beauty products and routines for their skin types and concerns. From recommending the right cleansers and toners to suggesting the perfect red lipstick, you’ll be your clients’ go-to for all things beauty.
Skills and Earnings
Excellent knowledge of various beauty products, brands, and skincare routines is key for this role. Great interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with clients are also vital.
As per ZipRecruiter, personal beauty consultants in the U.S. make an average of $33,912 per year, but with a solid client base, there’s potential to earn much more.
Getting Started
1. Build Your Knowledge: Understand the ingredients and benefits of different beauty products. Keep up with the latest beauty trends and new product releases.
2. Create a Portfolio: Start by offering advice to friends and family and document their success stories. This can help you attract new clients.
3. Build Your Brand: Leverage social media to showcase your skills, share beauty tips, and connect with potential clients.
Remember, both these beauty side hustles have the potential to be profitable and rewarding. It’s all about finding what you love and turning that passion into a money-maker!
#9 Mobile Spray Tanning: Turn Up The Bronze
Are you ready for a side hustle that will not only bring in some extra income but also bring the glow to your clients’ skin? If yes, then starting a mobile spray tanning business might just be the golden ticket.
What the Job Entails
As a mobile spray tanning professional, you’ll be taking your services to clients directly. It’s all about convenience for your clients. No need for them to leave their homes or offices – you bring the sun-kissed look to them. You’ll be responsible for setting up a portable spray tanning booth, preparing clients’ skin, and applying the spray tan solution in a manner that gives a natural, streak-free finish. It’s also crucial to provide advice on tan maintenance and aftercare to ensure the best results.
Skills Needed and Potential Earnings
You don’t need any prior beauty therapy experience to get started, although a qualification in beauty therapy or a specific spray tan training course could give you an edge. The most important skill is a keen eye for detail to deliver a smooth and even tan.
As for earnings, a single spray tan session can typically be priced between $50 and $300. With a steady stream of repeat customers and new clients, the potential for profit in this beauty side hustle is significant.
How to Get Started
Getting started as a mobile spray tanner involves a few key steps. First, invest in a quality spray tanning kit and solution. Do your research to find out what brands and types of solutions are popular and well-reviewed.
Next, get trained. Even if it’s not a legal requirement in your area, professional training can help you perfect your technique and increase client satisfaction. Look for online courses or workshops in your area.
Then, it’s all about marketing your services. Utilize social media, word of mouth, and local advertising. Consider offering discounts for first-time clients or referral bonuses to encourage word-of-mouth marketing.
Lastly, don’t forget to ensure you’re covered with the appropriate business insurance to protect against any potential claims.
With a little effort and an entrepreneurial spirit, you can turn this beauty side hustle into a flourishing mobile spray tanning business. So, are you ready to turn up the bronze?
#10 Curate Custom Beauty Baskets
The Joy of Gifting Beauty
Curating and selling beauty baskets online can be a wonderful and creative beauty business. Who doesn’t love receiving a basket filled with high-quality beauty products, each tailored to their specific skincare or makeup preferences?
As the owner of an online beauty basket business, your job would involve sourcing various beauty products, curating them into beautifully themed or personalized baskets, and selling them online.
Skills and Earnings
This role is perfect for those who have a good eye for products and love to create. You’ll need to be able to understand what types of beauty products work well together, and to anticipate what your clients would love.
Earnings can vary widely in this business, depending on the cost of the products you include in your baskets and the prices at which you sell them. However, as per IBISWorld, in 2023, the online gift basket sales in the U.S. is a $1.5 billion industry, indicating the potential to earn substantial profits.
Getting Started
1. Identify Your Niche: What types of beauty baskets will you sell? Are they for makeup lovers, skincare enthusiasts, or those who prefer natural products? Perhaps you’d like to specialize in baskets for specific occasions like birthdays or holidays.
2. Source Products: You’ll need to find suppliers for your products. Consider reaching out to both high-end and affordable beauty brands for a diverse range.
3. Set Up Your Online Store: Platforms like Etsy, eBay, or even Instagram make it easy to set up an online shop. Make sure your store looks attractive and is easy for customers to navigate.
4. Market Your Baskets: Leverage social media presence to promote your baskets. Engaging posts and stunning photos can help attract customers.
So, if you love beauty and have a knack for curation, why not turn that passion into a profitable beauty business? Remember, the beauty industry is vast, and there’s a niche for everyone!
Building Success in Your Beauty Side Hustles
Turning your passion into a money-making venture can be incredibly rewarding. But to make the most of your beauty side hustles, you’ll need a few strategies to keep your business growing and your clients coming back for more.
Showcase Your Skills: Building a Solid Portfolio and Clientele
The first thing any client will want to see is your work. That’s where a solid portfolio comes in. Whether you’re a makeup artist, hair stylist, or a beauty basket curator, having a visually appealing, professional portfolio is a must. Use high-quality photos and showcase a variety of styles and techniques. Show your potential clients that you know your stuff!
Now, let’s talk about building that clientele. Start by offering your services to family and friends. In the beauty industry, word-of-mouth is king! Deliver top-notch service and your happy customers will bring in more clients. Remember, every satisfied customer could potentially bring in repeat customers or refer new clients.
Making Connections: Networking in the Beauty Industry
Networking is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to succeed in their beauty side hustles. Attend industry events, join online forums, and don’t shy away from social media platforms. Connect with other professionals in the industry – collaboration often leads to growth.
Moreover, having a strong network can keep you in the loop about new opportunities and trends. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed contact in this industry. Building relationships with beauty brands could even land you special deals for your business, a total win-win situation.
Stay on Top: Keeping Up with Beauty Trends and Continuous Learning
The beauty industry is always evolving. New trends, techniques, and products are constantly emerging. To stay relevant, you have to keep up. Subscribe to beauty blogs, follow beauty influencers on social media, and always be open to learning.
Continuous education is vital in this industry. Whether it’s mastering a new nail art technique, learning about the latest skincare ingredients, or taking a course on how to deliver the perfect dermal fillers, always strive to expand your knowledge. Remember, your beauty business is only as good as the services you provide.
With these strategies in mind, your beauty side business can become a lucrative side hustle that not only brings in extra income but also allows you to do something you truly love.
Wrapping It Up: Your Own Beautiful Venture Awaits!
We’ve covered a lot of ground exploring various beauty side hustles that you can dive into. Remember, the beauty industry is expansive and evolving, presenting numerous opportunities for you to make more money while doing something you love.
Whether it’s becoming a freelance makeup artist, starting your own beauty blog, or venturing into selling beauty baskets online, each of these hustle ideas holds the potential to transform from a side gig into a full-fledged beauty business. The key is to find that perfect intersection where your passion meets demand.
But keep in mind, no matter which path you choose, starting and maintaining your own business is not a walk in the park. It will require patience, persistence, and a constant willingness to learn and adapt. Yet, the rewards — financial gain, creative fulfillment, and the joy of creating something of your own — make every challenge worth it.
So why wait? Dive into one of these beauty side hustles and start your journey towards a more beautiful — and profitable — future. You’ve got this!
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