Private hair replacement studio

Men and women with hair loss from genetics, alopecia or medical treatment, who want a discreet, natural-looking option.

A fee for each new system fitting, plus recurring maintenance, re-fitting and styling visits every few weeks. You can also mark up the systems and care products you supply.

• Hair cutting and styling
• Sensitive, confidence-building client care
• Attention to detail and colour matching

• Hairstyling or cosmetology licensing and salon or premises rules vary by province and municipality, so check with your provincial regulator and local council
• Commercial general liability insurance, plus check whether you need cover for products and adhesives
• Clients' skin reactions to adhesives, so patch test and keep clear records
• Slow early months while you build trust and referrals
• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your premises, equipment, products and how you promote the studio. These are estimates, so build your own budget before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your client numbers and the services you offer. The estimates assume at least 15 hours a week, and early months can be slow.

Check hairstyling or cosmetology licensing and salon or premises rules with your provincial regulator and local council. Also check commercial general liability insurance, cover for products and adhesives, patch testing and records, and GST/HST registration.