Starting your own nail salon is exciting ,  but it’s important to plan carefully, especially when it comes to material costs.
One of the biggest mistakes new salon owners make is underestimating how much inventory and supplies will cost at the beginning.

By knowing exactly what you need and how much it costs, you can:

• Stay within your startup budget

• Avoid cash flow problems

• Open your salon fully stocked and professional

• Offer a great customer experience from day one

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about inventory costs for nail salon startups ,  in simple, easy-to-follow steps.

1. Key Categories of Materials You’ll Need

Before we dive into the numbers, let’s first understand what materials you actually need.
You’ll typically need to invest in:

• Nail Products (polishes, gels, powders)
  

• Tools and Equipment (UV lamps, drills, brushes)
  

• Salon Furniture (tables, chairs, storage)
  

• Sanitation Supplies (disinfectants, towels, gloves)
  

• Reception and Waiting Area Supplies
  

• Branding and Marketing Materials (signage, brochures)
  

• Miscellaneous Items (paper towels, cotton pads)
  

Tip: Prioritize quality products to deliver excellent service and reduce replacements.

2. Detailed Breakdown: Average Material Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical material costs when starting a nail salon:

Estimated Total Startup Material Cost: $9,400 – $19,700

3. Factors That Affect Inventory Costs

Inventory costs vary depending on:

• Salon Size: More chairs = more supplies needed.
  

• Service List: Offering advanced nail art, extensions, or spa treatments will need additional materials.
  

• Quality Standards: Premium brands cost more but build client trust.
  

• Supplier Deals: Buying wholesale can lower your expenses.
  

Tip: Start with core services, then expand your materials as your salon grows.

4. Must-Have Nail Products for Startups

When opening your salon, focus on essential nail products first:

• Basic color polish range (neutral, classic colors)
  

• Gel polish starter kits
  

• Acrylic powder and liquid sets
  

• Topcoats and basecoats
  

• Nail art essentials (rhinestones, brushes, stickers)
  

• Cuticle oils and lotions
  

Pro Tip:
Invest in professional-grade products ,  it enhances your service quality and sets your salon apart from DIY home setups.

5. Equipment Essentials You Can’t Skip

Some equipment is non-negotiable when opening a professional nail salon:

• 2-4 UV/LED curing lamps
  

• 2+ Electric nail drills
  

• Quality nail art brushes
  

• Nail dust collectors
  

• Manicure and pedicure kits
  

• Nail extension forms and tips
  

• Salon sterilizer or autoclave
  

Tip: Buy high-quality tools once to avoid frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.

6. How to Save Money on Material Costs

Starting a salon can be expensive ,  but there are smart ways to keep costs lower:

• Buy in bulk: Order larger quantities for a discount.
  

• Start small: Offer fewer services first, then expand.
  

• Lease equipment: For big-ticket items like pedicure chairs.
  

• Partner with brands: Some nail product companies offer free training or discounts to new salons.
  

• Negotiate deals: Ask vendors for first-time buyer discounts.
  

Pro Tip:
Work with an experienced salon supplier who understands your industry needs ,  they can recommend the best starter packages.

7. Hidden Costs You Should Budget For

Besides inventory, don’t forget these hidden costs:

• Shipping and delivery fees for supplies
  

• Insurance for inventory and equipment
  

• Taxes on products
  

• Training costs for using new equipment
  

• Initial website setup to promote your new salon

Tip: Set aside 10–15% extra in your budget for unexpected expenses.

8. Inventory Management Tips for New Salon Owners

Once your salon is open, keeping track of your inventory is key to profitability.

• Set par levels for each item (how many you should always have)
  

• Schedule monthly inventory checks
  

• Rotate older stock to avoid product expiration
  

• Track your best-selling colors and services
  

• Reorder supplies before they run out

Pro Tip:
Use a simple POS system or inventory management tool to automate tracking ,  many nail salon management systems offer this feature!

ExterMarketing also offers inventory management solutions integrated into your CRM and appointment booking system.

9. Example of a Basic Startup Inventory List

Here’s a quick checklist to help you plan your first order:

Customize this list depending on your services and budget.

Conclusion

Starting your nail salon business is an exciting journey!
Understanding the material and inventory costs upfront helps you budget smarter, open faster, and serve better from day one.

The secret is simple: Start with the essentials, invest in quality, and build over time.
Don’t forget to also plan for inventory management so you can stay organized and profitable.