How to Start an Esthetician Business in Colorado (2026 Step‑by‑Step Guide)
If you are a licensed esthetician — or planning to complete your 600‑hour esthetician license program — you may be wondering:
How do I start my own esthetician business in Colorado?
Opening a skincare studio or renting a suite can be one of the most rewarding steps in your esthetics career. Colorado offers strong demand for professional skincare services, especially in Denver and surrounding metro areas. However, starting your own business requires careful planning, legal compliance, and strategic marketing.
This step‑by‑step guide explains how to legally and successfully launch your esthetician business in Colorado.
Step 1: Obtain Your Colorado Esthetician License
Before you can legally operate an esthetics business, you must hold an active esthetician license issued by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
To become licensed, you must:
Complete 600 hours at a state‑approved esthetics program
Pass the required licensing examination
Apply through DORA’s licensing portal
Maintain active renewal status
Operating without a valid license can result in fines and disciplinary action.
Step 2: Decide on Your Business Model
There are several ways to structure your esthetician business in Colorado.
Option 1: Rent a Suite
Suite rental allows you to operate independently inside a shared salon facility.
Benefits:
Lower startup cost
Built‑in professional environment
Faster launch timeline
Responsibilities:
Paying rent
Managing scheduling and supplies
Maintaining sanitation standards
Option 2: Open a Standalone Studio
Opening your own studio provides full control but requires more planning.
Consider:
Lease agreements
Build‑out costs
Utilities
Equipment purchases
Insurance requirements
Option 3: Work as an Independent Contractor
Some salons allow estheticians to operate independently while sharing space.
Each model has different financial and legal implications.
Step 3: Register Your Business in Colorado
To operate legally, you must register your business entity.
Common structures include:
Sole proprietorship
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Corporation (less common for solo estheticians)
Register your business through the Colorado Secretary of State website.
You may also need:
A federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
A business bank account
Local city or county permits
Consult a tax professional or business advisor for guidance.
Step 4: Secure Professional Liability Insurances
Insurance protects your business from potential claims related to:
Allergic reactions
Skin sensitivity issues
Client disputes
Accidental injury
Many landlords and suite facilities require proof of insurance before allowing you to operate.
Step 5: Ensure Facility Compliance
Colorado requires that esthetic services be performed in properly licensed establishments that meet sanitation standards.
You must ensure:
Proper handwashing stations
Tool disinfection protocols
Clean linen storage
Single‑use item disposal
Compliance with DORA regulations
If opening your own location, verify local health department requirements before beginning operations.
Step 6: Invest in Equipment and Professional Products
Startup supplies typically include:
Treatment bed
Professional skincare line
Steamer and magnifying lamp
Waxing equipment
Sanitization supplies
Towels and linens
Quality products improve client results and support retail sales opportunities.
Step 7: Set Your Pricing Structure
Pricing depends on:
Local market rates
Experience level
Overhead expenses
Service specialization
Common pricing strategies include:
Introductory pricing for new businesses
Package deals
Membership models
Retail product bundles
Avoid underpricing long‑term. Sustainable pricing supports business growth.
Step 8: Build Your Brand and Marketing Strategy
Modern esthetic businesses rely heavily on digital visibility.
Key marketing strategies include:
Professional website with online booking
Google Business Profile optimization
Instagram and social media portfolio
Client referral incentives
Email marketing
Local SEO for Denver‑area searches
Consistency builds trust and recognition.
Step 9: Focus on Client Retention
Long‑term success depends on recurring clients.
To increase retention:
Deliver consistent results
Provide clear homecare guidance
Rebook appointments before clients leave
Offer loyalty incentives
Maintain excellent sanitation and professionalism
Retention is often more important than constant new client acquisition.
How Much Does It Cost to Start an Esthetician Business?
Startup costs vary widely.
Approximate ranges:
Suite rental model: Lower initial investment
Standalone studio: Higher startup costs including build‑out and equipment
Budget for:
Rent or lease
Equipment
Insurance
Licensing fees
Marketing
Inventory
Careful financial planning reduces early stress.
How Long Does It Take to Become Profitable?
Most new esthetic businesses take several months to build steady clientele.
Profitability depends on:
Marketing effort
Service pricing
Client retention rate
Specialization
Consistent effort and strong service quality accelerate growth.
Some estheticians benefit from first gaining experience in a spa or medspa environment.
Working under experienced professionals allows you to:
Build confidence
Learn client communication skills
Observe business operations
Save startup capital
Others choose entrepreneurship immediately after licensure. The right path depends on your readiness and financial planning.
Should You Start a Business Immediately After Licensure?
Final Takeaway
Starting an esthetician business in Colorado is absolutely achievable — but it requires proper licensure, regulatory compliance, financial planning, and consistent marketing.
Your foundation begins with completing a 600‑hour esthetician license program, passing your DORA licensing exam, and building strong technical skills.
Elite Aesthetics Academy’s esthetics program in Denver prepares students not only for licensure, but also for long‑term career growth and entrepreneurial success.
If you are ready to build your own esthetics business in Colorado, request program details or speak with our admissions team about upcoming enrollment opportunities.
Your journey from student to business owner begins with proper education and strategic planning.
👉 Explore 600-hour esthetician license program in Denver
Start esthetics Training
For many aspiring estheticians, daytime education simply isn’t an option. Work commitments, financial responsibilities, and family obligations often require a more flexible approach. A night esthetician program offers the opportunity to pursue a new career without disrupting your current livelihood.