How to start a salon business in Kenya

A salon is one of the most popular small businesses in Kenya, and one of the most competitive. The salons that last get a few basics right from day one: the location, the prices, the team and the records. Here's a practical walk-through.

1. Decide what kind of salon you are

“Salon” covers a lot: natural hair and braids, relaxers and weaves, barbering, nails, lashes, makeup, or a mix. Pick what you'll be known for in your area. A salon that's “the braids place in Kahawa” gets more referrals than one that does a bit of everything.

2. Choose the location carefully

• Foot traffic vs. destination: a stall near a stage gets walk-ins; a quieter first-floor space needs bookings and a following.
• Water and power: reliable water matters for washing and pedicures; check power and plan for a backup.
• Neighbours: three salons on the same corridor split the same clients — unless you do something they don't.

3. Permits and paperwork

Requirements differ by county, so ask your county office. Typically you'll need a KRA PIN, a single business permit from the county, and depending on the county a public health certificate and fire safety inspection. If you hire staff, register as an employer and keep records of what you pay them.

4. Equipment and stock

Start with what your chosen services need, not a full catalogue: chairs, mirrors, washing basin, dryers or hooded dryers, trolleys, tools, towels and a first stock of products. Buy your consumables in amounts you'll use within a month or two, so money isn't tied up on the shelf.

5. Price your services

For each service add up: products used, the stylist's commission, and a share of rent and bills. Then look at what salons around you charge. Write every price down and publish it — clients trust a salon with clear prices, and it stops staff quoting different amounts.

6. Hire and agree how you'll pay

Most Kenyan salons pay stylists on commission, some on salary plus commission. Whatever you choose, write down each person's rate and how discounts and advances work. Our guide on commission, salary or chair rent compares the options.

7. Keep records from the first day

Record every sale: the service, who did it, how the client paid. It's how you'll know which services make money, who your best stylists are, and whether the till balances. A salon POS does this as you go and works out commission automatically.

8. Get your first clients

• A free online page with your prices and a booking button — share the link everywhere.
• WhatsApp status with photos of real work, several times a week.
• An opening offer for the first month, and a reason to come back (a discount on the second visit).
• Ask every happy client for a review.

More ideas in how to get more salon bookings online.

9. Watch the numbers every week

Sales, commission paid, expenses, and what's left. If a service is popular but leaves nothing after products and commission, change the price or the rate.

BeautyFlow gives a new salon all of this in one place — a free booking page, a POS that records who did what, automatic commission and simple reports. Start free.