Starting your own tanning salon is exciting. You get to build your own business, be your own boss, and create a place where people come to feel good about themselves. But let’s be honest it’s not as easy as buying a few sunbeds and opening the doors. Many first-time salon owners underestimate what it really takes to run a successful tanning business. From hidden costs to legal rules, and from choosing the right equipment to attracting customers there’s a lot to think about. The last thing you want is to spend your hard-earned money, only to make avoidable mistakes that hurt your business.
At Helionova, we’ve seen many salons succeed but also seen people struggle because they didn’t get the right advice at the start. That’s why we’ve created this guide.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common mistakes new tanning salon owners make, and more importantly, how you can avoid them.
Many new salon owners focus only on the cost of the sunbeds, but forget about other expenses like rent, insurance, marketing, and maintenance. Make sure you create a full business plan that covers all costs from day one.
Your salon’s location can make or break your business. Avoid setting up in places with low foot traffic or poor visibility. Always check local competition, parking availability, and how easy it is for people to find you.
Trying to save money by buying old or poor-quality sunbeds often leads to higher maintenance costs and unhappy customers. Leasing modern, energy-efficient equipment can be a smarter, more affordable option.
In the UK, tanning salons must follow specific health and safety regulations. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines or even business closure. Always stay informed about age restrictions, UV limits, and other salon requirements.
Your staff represents your salon. If they’re not properly trained, it reflects badly on your business. Make sure every team member knows how to operate the equipment safely, advise customers, and deliver great service.
Many new owners think customers will just “find them” after opening. Without active marketing, both online and locally, it’s hard to grow. Use social media, Google My Business, and local promotions to attract clients.
Energy prices are high, and sunbeds consume a lot of power. New salon owners often get a shock when the bills arrive. Choosing energy-efficient sunbeds and monitoring your usage is key to keeping costs under control.
If you only offer basic tanning sessions, you limit your customer base. Consider adding extras like spray tanning, collagen light therapy, or beauty treatments to attract a wider audience.
From appointment scheduling to cleanliness, small details matter. A bad first impression can lose you loyal customers. Focus on offering a clean, welcoming space and excellent service every time.
Regular maintenance keeps your sunbeds safe and running smoothly. Ignoring small issues can lead to costly repairs later. Work with a reliable supplier (like Helionova) who offers maintenance support.
Running a tanning salon comes with its challenges, but most mistakes are avoidable with the right planning and support. By learning from others and working with experienced partners, you can give your salon the best possible start.
At Helionova, we help salon owners succeed by providing high-quality sunbeds, flexible leasing options, and ongoing support.