Opening a Tanning Salon: What You Need to Know to Get Started

Thinking about opening a tanning salon? You’re not alone. Tanning services continue to attract clients year-round, especially as more people seek a healthy glow in every season.

But before you dive in, there’s more to it than just finding the right bulbs or tanning solution. Opening a tanning salon is an exciting business opportunity that requires planning, research, and the right tools to thrive.

From licensing and startup costs to choosing the best software for appointments and payments, here’s what you need to know:

What Should You Consider Before Opening a Tanning Salon?

Before launching your salon, start by researching your local market. Who are your potential customers? Are there already tanning salons nearby? And what services do they offer? Understanding your competitors and target audience helps you find your specialty, whether that’s UV tanning beds, spray tanning or a mix of both.

Next, check your local business and health regulations. Many states require salon owners to obtain specific tanning licenses or certifications for safety and compliance. You’ll also want to review health department guidelines for sanitation and ventilation to protect your clients and staff.

When you understand your local market and regulations, you’ll be better prepared to build a strong foundation for your business.

How Do You Create a Business Plan?

Your business plan is your tanning salon’s best friend. It outlines your goals, target audience, services, and strategies that will make your salon shine. It also includes market research, marketing ideas, operational details, and financial projections. This roadmap helps you stay organized, attract investors, and make informed decisions as you grow.

A great business plan also helps you identify opportunities for differentiation whether it’s luxury spray tanning experiences, memberships, or skincare add-ons. The more clearly you define your path, the more confidently you can move toward success.

Which Business Structure is Best For You?

Choosing the right business structure for your tanning salon can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone in figuring it out. Here's the thing: many tanning salon owners find themselves drawn to a limited liability company (LLC). An LLC has your back when it comes to protecting your personal assets, plus it can have some pretty nice tax perks. Think fewer layers of taxation, more flexibility on how you file, and the ability to write off legitimate business expenses. All of these can help you keep more of what you earn. The flexibility it offers for management and ownership? That's the cherry on top that makes it such a go-to choice for small business owners in the tanning community.

Now, let's be real... your salon is as unique as you are, so what works for your peers might not be your perfect fit. That's why we always encourage chatting with a legal or financial pro who can really understand your specific situation. Whether you land on an LLC, sole proprietorship, or something completely different, the important thing is that you're making this choice with confidence and clarity. When you take the time to build that solid foundation, you're setting your tanning salon up to thrive and grow in ways that'll make you proud.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Tanning Salon?

Start-up costs can vary but expect to spend between $60,000 and $145,000 depending on your location, size, and number of tanning beds. Major expenses include:

• Equipment: Tanning beds, spray tan booths, bulbs, and ventilation systems
• Lease or renovations: Rent, flooring, lighting, and décor
• Licensing and insurance: Local permits and liability coverage
• Marketing and software: Website, booking system, and promotions

Conducting a break-even analysis is essential to estimate how long it will take to recoup your start-up costs and start making money. This financial planning step helps you set realistic sales targets and create accurate financial projections for your tanning salon.

When choosing equipment, investing in quality equipment can improve your profit margin by reducing maintenance costs, extending equipment lifespan, and attracting more clients who value advanced, reliable technology. This not only saves you money in the long run but also enhances the overall customer experience and boosts your revenue.

To save time and stress, look for an all-in-one business platform like Vagaro, which can handle bookings, payments, and marketing all in one place.

Where Should You Open Your Tanning Salon?

If you’re a mobile tan artist looking to establish a salon, consider the location with attention to detail. A high-traffic area near gyms, beauty salons, or shopping centers can help attract walk-ins and repeat clients. Make sure your space is large enough for private tanning rooms, reception area, and storage.

If you’re converting an existing salon or spa into a tanning business, check the electrical and ventilation requirements for tanning beds before installation. It’s also wise to design the space to feel welcoming, clean, and professional. The goal is to have clients feel more comfortable spending time there.

What Services Should You Offer?

A successful tanning salon offers a variety of services. Offering additional services such as spa treatments or beauty services can help attract a wider range of clients. Some clients prefer quick UV sessions, while others want customizable spray tans. Tanning booths are another popular option, providing clients with more choices for their tanning experience.

You might also offer sunless tanning packages, memberships, and retail products like skincare products such as tanning lotions, moisturizers, or exfoliators to boost your revenue.

Test your pricing and service options during your first few months. Software like Vagaro can help you track sales and determine which services are most popular, so you can adjust your offerings quickly and easily.

How Can You Attract and Retain Clients?

A strong marketing plan is key to filling your appointment book. Start building your online presence before opening your doors by creating a website, social media accounts, and Google Business Profile. Leverage social media platforms to reach more clients, attract new customers, and showcase your services.

Once you’ve gotten their attention, you’ll need to create interest for prospective clients. Run promotions for first-time clients or discounts on package deals. Offering discounts and loyalty programs can encourage repeat business and keep clients coming back, which is especially important early on.

Ask happy customers to leave reviews and share before-and-after photos on social media. Tools like Vagaro’s automated marketing and review features make it easy to reach new clients and keep your loyal ones coming back.

Plus, forming local partnerships with nearby businesses can help attract more clients and expand your reach. With these techniques, you can attract and retain clients while you manage your tanning salon.

What Tools Help You Manage Your Tanning Salon?

Once your tanning salon is open, smooth operations will make all the difference. Business management software can handle everything from scheduling and payments to payroll and inventory tracking. These tools also help you efficiently manage bookings and improve customer service.

With Vagaro, you can:

• Let clients book online 24/7
• Sell memberships and packages
• Collect reviews automatically
• Manage your team’s schedules and commissions

Having one system that does it all means you can spend less time on admin and more time growing your business.

What Are the Next Steps to Opening Your Tanning Salon?

After planning, budgeting, and licensing, your next steps include:

1. Finalizing your location and layout
2. Buying and installing tanning equipment
3. Setting up your business software
4. Hiring and training staff
5. Launching your marketing campaigns

When everything’s in place, plan a soft opening to test operations, then celebrate your official grand opening with special offers and events! Opening your own tanning salon is an exciting milestone that brings the rewards of entrepreneurship, brand building, and the satisfaction of running a successful business.

Ready to Glow and Grow?

Opening a tanning salon is a rewarding venture when you have the right plan and tools in place. From compliance to client care, every step counts toward building a successful business.

With Vagaro, you can manage your appointments, payments, and marketing all in one place, helping you focus on what matters most: giving clients that perfect glow. Start a free 30-day trial today and set up your new tanning salon for success from the start.