Starting a laser hair removal side business while working in the NHS hospital job

[Thepanicyears]

Basically I’m really nervous to start a little business! Can anyone who has done this give me some pointers?

I work full time in the NHS but long hospital shifts and 4-5 days ‘off’ per week. I have been researching setting up a laser hair removal business as a side income. I plan on converting my garage which I am lucky my partner, Dad and brother can help me with so costs would be material only. We estimate around £3000. I have looked into training -£1000 (manufacturer and general laser training from an accredited company) as well as a medical grade triple wavelength laser machine - £3500 second hand but with service history and manufacturer guarantee.

My concerns are that I don’t know how to run, advertise or promote a business. I also really worry about getting clients. I’m scared the whole thing will be an embarrassing costly flop.

If you live in a smaller area with a “local feel” I’d go a bit into the local fb/insta give aways “repost this and win free laser”etc. Give people a 15% discount for good reviews, or a second area. I’ve done it in a few areas and after seeing the results of the first immediately booked a second. People usually think laser is expensive, it’s what put me off. My flatmate did it, the place she used was on Groupon limited to the first area treated. It’s probably the best money I’ve spent to date. The first place I went gave a small stress ball to hold during the treatment, nowhere since had and it was actually great and a nice touch. Make sure you get insurance for the business in case something goes wrong, someone gets burned etc.

Thank you. Yes my area is a town of around 18,000 people. I’d definitely try and do the social media side and the offers are a good idea. Glad you had good results too thats nice to hear

You will need to check what licensing and insurance you need. Different local authorities vary on what you need. Don’t forget to let your home insurance know as running a business from home will usually change the T&Cs

Yes I’ve checked the council and the manufacturer provide the accredited training. Thank you I will check the home insurance too I hadn’t thought of that

Local FB groups seem to be the way local businesses advertise. Just make sure your are honest about laser as it really doesn't work on light hair (despite my ex beauty clinic assuring me their new lasers would work on me - £400 later nothing has changed!)

What's your professional background? I think you would need to bring this into your scope of practice for revalidation. Your professional body can advise on what that involves.

I’m a nurse but don’t think it will have any impact on that seen as anyone could do the laser once they’ve done the VTCT and manufacturer training

The manufacturers do promise reduction on all hair types so I can see why you’d be super disappointed with that!

I don't think you are right about that. As a nurse you are held to a higher standard. You will need a confirmer I think. And to declare this as part of your practice.

Please check with the NMC so you don't get into bother

Oh the NMC will definitely be interested. You will probably need to look at whether you will need to be QCQ registered too. As a PP has said, you will be held to a higher standard than a non nurse. I would be very careful with what you are planning

Thanks for you advice. When I’ve checked there’s no requirement to inform them and as long as everything is above board there shouldn’t be any issues as far as my research tells me. Also definitely no CQC needed

I'm glad you have looked into it, OP.

I wouldn't visit someone's garage for this, I'm afraid!

There will be a local business support service via your council that offers support setting up eg make your own

I do understand your point, when I say garage it would be a complete conversion. This is my plan I’ve had created too see what it would look like and work from but it will be completely separate from the house, fully insulated, electrics and plumbing etc. Just working from home really helps keep the costs down not having to pay £500+ a month for rent.