Online makeup and skincare store

Individual shoppers who buy for personal use or as gifts, usually found through social media, search and email.

You buy products at wholesale prices and sell at retail, keeping the difference after shipping, payment fees and advertising. Bundles, gift sets and repeat orders raise the average sale.

• Choosing products that suit a clear customer group
• Social media and email marketing
• Inventory tracking and order fulfillment
• Basic product photography

• Check whether your state requires a seller's permit or sales tax registration, and how it treats online sales to other states
• Buy only from authorized brands or distributors; counterfeit or gray-market goods can bring legal trouble and harm your reputation
• Cosmetics are regulated by the FDA for labeling and safety; check the rules before selling any products you make or relabel yourself
• Many brands set minimum orders, price rules and approval requirements for resellers
• Check product shelf life and storage, since expired or heat-damaged items lead to returns and refunds
• Consider general liability and product liability insurance

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your opening stock, website and minimum brand orders. Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your range and how well you market it.

Check whether your state requires a seller's permit or sales tax registration, and how it treats online sales to other states. Cosmetics are regulated by the FDA for labeling and safety, so check the rules before selling anything you make or relabel yourself.

Useful skills include choosing products for a clear customer group, social media and email marketing, inventory tracking and order fulfillment, and basic product photography. Time is typically at least around 10 hours a week, depending on order volume.