Core guide
Opening and growing a beauty salon: what you really need
Requirements, start-up costs, choosing treatments and finding your first clients: a practical guide for anyone opening a beauty salon in Italy who wants to reach full capacity as quickly as possible.
In this guide
Requirements for opening
To open a beauty salon, you need a professional beauty therapist qualification, a VAT number with Chamber of Commerce registration and a business commencement notification submitted to the local council.
There are also premises requirements (floor space, ventilation, toilets, waste disposal), which vary by municipality, and specific authorisations for certain electromechanical equipment. Always check local council regulations before signing a lease.
How much it costs to get started
The initial investment for a small salon generally starts at a few tens of thousands of euros for premises, furnishings, equipment and products.
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Premises and renovation work | Depends heavily on the location and condition of the property |
| Furnishings and treatment rooms | Scalable: you can start with fewer treatment rooms |
| Equipment | The biggest expense; consider renting when starting out |
| Products and stock | Keep low in the first few months |
| Marketing and website | Essential from day one, not later |
Choosing the right treatments
Start with a few treatments with strong local demand and high repeat booking rates, rather than an extensive treatment menu.
Hair removal, body and facial treatments cover most demand. The key is not what the owner enjoys most, but what people in the area are already looking for and how often they return.
Finding your first clients
The first goal is not revenue but filling your appointment book: in the first few months, an introductory offer, a Google presence and a simple local campaign are what matter.
- A complete Google Business Profile, with real photos and accurate opening hours.
- An introductory offer on a single treatment.
- A local campaign within a few kilometres.
- Ask every satisfied client for a review.
From the first year to full capacity
The breakthrough comes when the salon stops relying on the owner's time to reply to messages and book appointments.
Frequently asked questions
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Keep reading
In-depth guide
Opening a beauty salon: the real costs, item by item
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In-depth guide
Requirements for opening a beauty salon: qualifications, paperwork and process
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Data
Digital Index 2026
The online presence of 27.917 beauty salons, province by province.
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