Hair extensions supplier to salons

Independent stylists, salon owners and booth renters who install extensions for their own clients.

You sell at wholesale or trade prices with a smaller margin per unit but larger and repeat orders. Some suppliers also offer trade accounts, training days or starter kits.

• Deep knowledge of extension methods and hair quality
• Building relationships with stylists
• Basic bookkeeping and inventory tracking
• Selling and following up on leads

• Resale certificates and state sales tax rules for wholesale sales, check with your state revenue department
• Cash tied up in stock, so start with a small range of popular colors and lengths
• General liability and product liability insurance, check what salons might ask to see
• Import rules and quality checks if you buy from overseas, check with a customs broker or the relevant federal agencies
• Check home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules if you store inventory at home

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy, the range of colors and lengths, and what samples and shade rings you need for visits.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many stylists and salons reorder and the size of their orders. These are estimates, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check resale certificate and state sales tax rules for wholesale sales, and ask what insurance salons may want to see. If you import, check with a customs broker or the relevant federal agencies. Also check home occupation and HOA or lease rules.