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The beauty industry is as diverse as the clients it serves. From stylish hair salons and luxurious spas to high-tech medi-spas and on-the-go mobile salons, there’s a salon type for every professional dream and customer need.
Whether you’re planning to open your first space or expand your existing beauty business, understanding the different types of salons will help you choose the right model — and the right salon equipment – to support your goals.
1. Hair Salons
Hair salons are the cornerstone of the beauty world. They cater to clients looking for cuts, colouring, styling, and treatments – from everyday trims to full transformations.
Popular services include:
- Haircuts and blow-dries
- Colouring and balayage
- Keratin and conditioning treatments
- Hair extensions and styling for events
Modern hair salons are becoming more experience-driven, offering relaxation zones, eco-conscious product ranges, and even self-care add-ons.
Shop Hair Salon Products WholesalePlanning your setup? Check out our Hair Salon Equipment List for essentials like styling chairs, basins, and dryers.
And if colour services are your focus, explore our guide to hair colour charts to create seamless shade selections for your clients.
2. Beauty Salons
Beauty salons offer a complete pampering experience under one roof – combining hair, make-up, skincare, lash & brow treatments and waxing. Clients love the convenience of getting everything done in one visit.
Typical services:
- Facials and skin treatments
- Waxing and threading
- Lashes and brows
- Massage and relaxation therapy
To create a seamless, spa-like atmosphere, investing in professional-grade furniture makes a big difference. Discover how to choose the right beauty bed and browse essential salon equipment lists to outfit your space for success.
3. Nail Salons
These vibrant spaces are perfect for creative professionals who love detail and design. Nail salons focus on manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, and nail art.
Key trends:
- 3D nail art and embellishments
- Gel and BIAB (builder in a bottle) manicures
- Seasonal designs and luxury spa pedicures
To work efficiently and safely, nail techs need reliable tools and lamps. Read our guide on essential nail supplies and compare LED vs UV nail lamps to find the best fit for your business.
4. Spa Salons
Spa salons focus on wellness and relaxation. Think soft lighting, aromatherapy, and rejuvenating treatments. Clients visit for massages, facials, and body wraps – often to unwind from busy lives.
Pro tip: Combine spa treatments with a calming environment – scented candles, soothing music, and premium towels – to enhance the customer experience.
5. Medi-Spas
Also known as medical spas, these combine traditional spa comforts with advanced, medically supervised treatments. Services can include:
- Laser hair removal
- Microneedling
- Chemical peels
- Botox and dermal fillers
- Advanced skincare facials
Medi-spas appeal to clients seeking visible, long-term skincare results. They typically require partnerships with licensed professionals and high-quality sterile equipment.
6. Barbershops
Barbershops have evolved far beyond basic haircuts. Today’s modern barbers offer beard sculpting, skincare, and even relaxation services – all in a stylish, masculine setting.
Shop Barbering Products WholesaleThey blend classic traditions with a contemporary edge – leather chairs, vintage mirrors, and great music – to attract a loyal clientele.
7. Tanning Salons
These salons specialise in achieving the perfect glow – either through UV tanning beds or spray tanning booths.
Shop Tanning Products WholesaleRecent trends lean toward safer, sunless tanning solutions with organic formulas and custom colour matching.
Before you get started, check out our Salon Tanning Guide for insights into equipment, maintenance, and safety practices.
8. Brow & Lash Studios
Focused on precision and artistry, these studios offer brow shaping, tinting, microblading, and lash extensions.
Shop Eye Treatment Products WholesaleClients love these services for their quick transformation and long-lasting results.
If you’re launching your own lash studio, our Eyelash Extension Guide covers everything from adhesives to application tools.
9. Specialty Salons
These are niche-focused spaces that cater to specific audiences or values. Examples include:
- Eco-friendly salons using vegan or cruelty-free products
- Curly hair salons specialising in textured hair
- Kids salons with fun, family-friendly décor
- Bridal salons offering tailored wedding packages
Niche salons thrive on strong branding and personal connections with their clients.
10. Mobile Salons
Perfect for flexible professionals, mobile salons bring services directly to the client — at home, in offices, or at events.
They’re especially popular for bridal parties, elderly clients, and busy professionals.
Starting out? Read our guide to mobile beautician equipment essentials for portable and practical setup ideas.
11. Boutique & Hybrid Salons
Boutique salons are intimate, luxury-driven spaces that prioritise personal attention. Hybrid models blend services – for instance, combining hair, beauty, and wellness – to offer a more complete experience.
These salons often emphasise design and ambiance, appealing to clients who want exclusivity and consistency.
12. Wellness Salons
Holistic wellness salons take beauty a step further by integrating mind-body balance into treatments.
They may offer:
- Aromatherapy
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Nutritional guidance
- Scalp or energy-healing treatments
These salons align perfectly with the growing demand for self-care and sustainable beauty.
How to Choose the Right Salon Type
Choosing the right salon model depends on your:
- Passion and skills – Are you more creative, technical, or wellness-oriented?
- Target audience – Who do you want to serve?
- Budget and space – Can you start small, or do you need a larger setup?
- Market trends – What’s in demand in your area?
Tip: Start by listing your must-have services, then match them with your available space, target market, and budget for salon furniture and equipment.
Conclusion
The world of salons is diverse, dynamic, and full of opportunity. Whether you’re drawn to the creativity of a nail studio, the luxury of a spa, or the flexibility of a mobile salon, the right setup can bring your business vision to life.
Explore SalonServe’s professional resources, guides, and equipment collections to start, upgrade, or expand your beauty business with confidence.
Your dream salon starts with the right tools – and we’re here to help every step of the way.
