15 beauty side hustles to try this year

Looking to earn extra income while using your skills, experience and indulging in your passion for beauty? We’ve got you covered with our guide to 15 beauty side hustles, including how to get started with each one.

 

Why start a beauty side hustle?

One of the main reasons people start a beauty side hustle is the potential for additional income. In an industry that continues to thrive and evolve, there are endless opportunities to monetise your skills and passions. A beauty side hustle can help you earn extra money to supplement your primary income or even become a full-time venture  later on down the line.

It can encourage creative expression and personal fulfilment as well as more flexibility in your income and time. You can set your own schedule for your side hustle and choose the projects that align with your interests and goals.  It can even  help give you a  better work-life balance, especially if you’re juggling other commitments.

A side hustle can open doors to professional growth and networking opportunities too. This experience can also enhance your CV and portfolio, making you a more competitive candidate for future opportunities within the beauty industry. Overall, starting a beauty side hustle is a strategic and fulfilling way to utilise your talents, explore new career paths and achieve financial and personal growth.

 

The beauty side hustles you need to know about

Here are the beauty side hustles you can step into to start generating more income, opportunities and networking activities.

 

 

 

1.  Content creator

As a beauty content creator, you share your knowledge and passion for beauty on online platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and your own website. This can include makeup tutorials, skincare routines, product reviews and beauty tips. The goal is to build a loyal audience by providing valuable and engaging content.

Over time, you can monetise your content through ads, sponsorships and affiliate marketing. It isn’t always a case of becoming an overnight success, so this side hustle does take some initial input and work.

How to get started:

1. Choose a niche (e.g., skincare, makeup, haircare).
2. Invest in quality equipment for filming and editing.
3. Create a content schedule and stick to it.
4. Engage with your audience through comments and social media.

 

2.  Virtual training

Offer online courses and workshops on beauty techniques and skills. This can range from basic makeup application to advanced skincare treatments. Virtual training allows you to reach a global audience and share your expertise from the comfort of your home.

You can charge for individual classes, offer subscription models, or sell pre-recorded courses. This works even better if there’s demand for your specific services or for you as a virtual trainer, so having an expert profile can help with this

How to get started:

1. Identify your area of expertise (e.g., makeup artistry, skincare routines).
2. Develop a curriculum and create instructional materials.
3. Use platforms like Teachable, Udemy, Zoom or social media to host your courses.
4. Market your courses through social media, advertising and beauty forums.

 

3.  Pamper parties

Host beauty-themed parties for groups, offering services like mini-makeovers, manicures and skincare advice. Pamper parties are popular for events like birthdays, bridal showers and girls' nights. They provide a fun and relaxing experience for attendees, while allowing you to showcase your skills and potentially gain new clients.

Pamper parties also mean that in an hour, you have more than one paying client. If you can build a niche - such as kid’s princess parties or  bridal events - then this can help you to gain pamper party clients.

How to get started:

1. Develop a menu of services to offer at the parties.
2. Gather the necessary supplies and tools.
3. Network with event planners and party hosts.
4. Promote your services through social media and local advertising.

 

 

4.  Freelance beauty services

Provide on-demand beauty services like hair styling, makeup application and nail care on a freelance basis alongside your day job. As a freelance beauty professional, you can work with clients for special events, photoshoots, fashion shows or regular beauty maintenance. This side hustle offers flexibility and the opportunity to build a loyal client base.

One thing to bear in mind is that it does tend to come with longer hours and a need for flexibility, but you can gain amazing new skills, portfolio pieces and contacts. It’s important not to get burnt out and to take time off when you need it.

How to get started:

1. Get certified in your chosen beauty field.
2. Build a portfolio showcasing your work.
3. Create a website and social media presence.
4. Network with event planners, photographers, beauty brands and salons.

 

5.  Brand ambassador

Represent beauty brands and promote their products on your social media channels. As a brand ambassador, you'll share your honest opinions and experiences with the brand's products, helping to drive sales and increase brand awareness. This role often includes perks like free products, exclusive discounts and commission on sales.

Some brands are open to anyone being a brand ambassador, whereas others will want you to demonstrate a strong online presence or connection with the brand.

How to get started:

1. Build a strong personal brand and online presence.
2. Reach out to beauty brands for collaboration opportunities.
3. Attend industry events and network with brand representatives.
4. Create high-quality content featuring the brand’s products.

 

6.  Retail sales

Sell beauty products either online or in a physical location like at beauty or bridal events. This can include makeup, skincare products, hair care items and beauty tools. By understanding market trends and customer preferences, you can stock popular items and provide excellent customer service to build a successful retail business.

How to get started:

1. Choose a product niche (e.g., skincare, makeup, haircare).
2. Source products from wholesalers or manufacturers.
3. Set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or Etsy, or head to events.
4. Promote your activity through social media and online ads.

 

7.  Ebooks

Write and sell ebooks on beauty topics, such as skincare routines, makeup techniques or hair care tips. Ebooks are a great way to share your expertise and provide valuable information to your audience. Once created, they can generate passive income as they continue to sell over time.

You can also use them as a way to gain clients or opportunities, as you can collect data when people download them. It’s a way to position yourself as an expert, which can lead to more work.

How to get started:

1. Choose a topic you are knowledgeable about.
2. Write and format the ebook using tools like Canva or Microsoft Word.
3. Publish your ebook on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.
4. Market your ebook through social media and beauty blogs.

 

 

8.  Merch

Create and sell beauty-related merchandise, like T-shirts, makeup bags, mugs, beauty items or custom accessories. This side hustle lets you express your creativity and offer unique products to your audience. By leveraging your personal brand, you can design merchandise that resonates with your followers or target audience and drives sales.

How to get started:

1. Design your merchandise using tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.
2. Use print-on-demand services like Printful or Teespring.
3. Set up an online store on platforms like Shopify or Etsy.
4. Promote your merchandise through social media and beauty influencers.

 

9.  Custom beauty products online

Create and sell custom beauty products like eyelashes or press-on nails online. This niche market allows you to offer personalised beauty products that cater to individual tastes and preferences. By providing high-quality and unique designs, you can attract a loyal customer base.

Many people pivoted to offering custom products during the pandemic, but there’s still a demand as people want to DIY their nails or lashes but use better quality products.

How to get started:

1. Learn how to create custom lashes or nails through online tutorials or courses.
2. Source high-quality materials from reliable suppliers.
3. Set up an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify.
4. Market your products through social media and beauty blogs.

 

10.  Amazon sales

Sell beauty products on Amazon, either through wholesale pricing or private labelling (using your own branding on a product that already exists). With Amazon's vast customer base, you can reach a wide audience and scale your business quickly. Focus on finding in-demand products and optimising your listings to stand out in the competitive marketplace.

Amazon can also store and distribute your products for you (for a price), meaning you can stay more hands-off but still reap the rewards of making sales.

How to get started:

1. Choose a product niche and source products.
2. Create an Amazon seller account.
3. List your products with compelling descriptions and images.
4. Optimise your listings for search and use Amazon ads to drive traffic.

 

11.  Podcast

Start a beauty podcast where you discuss industry trends, interview experts and share tips. Podcasts are a popular medium for reaching audiences who prefer audio content. By providing valuable and entertaining episodes, you can build a loyal listener base and monetise through sponsorships and ads.

This can be a slower burn that some of the other side hustles that we’ve outlined but over time, you can build up an engaged audience. This can lead to opportunities and income.

How to get started:

1. Choose a podcast theme and format.
2. Invest in a good microphone and recording software.
3. Record and edit your episodes.
4. Publish your podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Podcasts.

 

12.  Consultant work

Offer consultancy services to other beauty businesses, providing expert advice on product development, marketing strategies, and business operations. As a beauty consultant, you'll work with salons, spas, cosmetic brands and other beauty-related businesses to help them enhance their offerings and improve their customer experience.

This role requires a deep understanding of beauty industry trends, strong business acumen and excellent interpersonal skills. You can get paid extremely well for relatively short-term work, but you have to be confident and knowledgeable.

How to get started:

1. Specialise in a specific area of beauty (e.g., skincare, makeup, salon management) and stay updated on the latest industry trends and innovations.
2. Obtain relevant certifications that can enhance your credibility, such as business management courses or specific beauty industry qualifications.
3. Develop a website showcasing your services, expertise, and client testimonials. Build a strong social media presence to attract and engage potential clients.
4. Attend industry events, join beauty business associations, promote via social media and connect with potential clients through professional networking platforms.

 

13.  Event organisation

Plan and organise beauty-related events like expos, workshops or product launches. This role involves coordinating logistics, managing vendors, marketing and ensuring events run smoothly. Successful event organisers are detail-oriented, creative and have strong project management skills.

The other good thing is that organising events in your industry can lead to you raising your profile. You can also network and connect with others in your industry, or even find potential clients.

How to get started:

1. Gain experience in event planning through courses, running events or volunteering.
2. Network with beauty brands, influencers and vendors.
3. Create a portfolio showcasing your event planning skills.
4. Promote your services through social media and industry connections.

 

 

14.  Teaching

Teach beauty courses or workshops either to other professionals, clients or both. As an instructor, you'll share your expertise with students looking to improve their skills or start a career in beauty. Teaching can be done in person or online, providing flexibility in how you reach your audience.

Training can also help you grow your reputation and network, leading to clients and opportunities. You can also be flexible in the teaching sessions that you do.

How to get started:

1. Determine your area of expertise and get certified if necessary.
2. Develop a curriculum and teaching materials.
3. Partner with local beauty schools or community centres to offer classes.
4. Advertise your classes through social media and local advertisements.

 

15.  Social media manager

Manage social media accounts for beauty brands, creating content and engaging with their audience. As a social media manager, you'll develop strategies to increase brand awareness and drive engagement. This role requires creativity, analytical skills and an understanding of social media trends.

As someone working in the beauty industry, you’ll probably already be familiar with promoting yourself and your business through social media. Use this experience to create a portfolio and show results.

How to get started:

1. Gain experience in social media management through courses or self-study.
2. Build a portfolio showcasing your work with past clients or personal projects.
3. Network with beauty brands and offer your services.
4. Stay updated on social media trends and algorithm changes to optimise your strategies.

 

 

Specialist hair and beauty insurance through Ripe

Whether you’re a hairdresser, beautician, or nail technician, insuring your beauty salon through Ripe can help provide financial protection and peace of mind should the worst happen.

Ripe specialist hair and beauty insurance includes Public and Products Liability cover as well as treatment risk cover, with the opportunity to build your own policy so you’re never paying for more than you need.

Find out more about specialist hair and beauty insurance through Ripe or get a quick online quote today.

link to beauty industry trends piece