Price Increase - 'How to' tools

Price Increase - 'How to' tools

You can use this on your website, booking system, socials, or in-salon signage.

Notice of Pricing Update

As of [date], there will be a small adjustment to our service pricing.

Like many businesses, we’ve experienced increased costs across professional products, supplies, and operating expenses. This update allows us to continue delivering the high standard of service, quality products, and care you expect.

We truly appreciate your ongoing support and understanding. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask — we’re always happy to chat.

Thank you for choosing us and supporting our business.
We look forward to welcoming you at your next appointment.

💡 Optional softer add-on:

Existing bookings made prior to [date] will be honoured at the current pricing.

2️⃣ How to Calculate Your True Service Cost per Appointment

This is where most nail professionals underprice without realising it.

Step 1: Calculate Product Cost per Service

Break it down per appointment, not per bottle.

Include:

  • Base / builder / gel / polish (amount used)
  • Prep liquids
  • Files & buffers (portion cost)
  • Gloves, wipes, disposables
  • Aftercare products used during service

👉 Even rough estimates are better than guessing.

Step 2: Add Operating Costs (Per Hour)

Take your monthly business costs and divide them realistically.

Include:

  • Rent or home studio costs
  • Utilities (electricity, water)
  • Insurance
  • Booking software / POS
  • Marketing
  • Education & training
  • Equipment wear & replacement

Example:

  • Monthly overheads: $2,000
  • Working hours/month: 120
  • Overhead per hour: ~$16.70

Step 3: Pay Yourself Properly

Decide:

  • What you want to earn per hour
  • Not what’s “left over”

Example:

  • Target hourly wage: $45/hr

Step 4: Final Formula (Per Service)

Service Price =
(Product cost)

  • (Overhead per hour × service time)
  • (Your hourly wage × service time)
  • Profit buffer

💡 If the number shocks you — that’s the point.
That’s your true minimum, not a luxury price.

3️⃣ Pricing Review Checklist for Nail Professionals

Use this every 6–12 months.

✔ Cost Review

  • Have product prices increased?
  • Has freight or supplier pricing changed?
  • Are disposables costing more?
  • Have utilities or rent increased?

✔ Service Timing

  • Are services running longer than priced?
  • Have techniques evolved but pricing hasn’t?
  • Are detailed services undercharged?

✔ Profit Check

  • Are you actually hitting your target hourly rate?
  • Are you busy but not profitable?
  • Are you discounting too often?

✔ Market Position

  • Are your prices aligned with your skill level?
  • Are you pricing like a beginner but performing like a pro?
  • Do your prices reflect your experience and results?

✔ Communication

  • Do you clearly explain price updates?
  • Are increases small and consistent instead of rare and dramatic?
  • Are boundaries around pricing clear?

Final Reminder (This Matters)

Raising prices isn’t about charging more — it’s about earning properly.

A sustainable nail business:

  • Protects profit margins
  • Supports ongoing education
  • Prevents burnout
  • Allows you to deliver consistent, high-quality work

Busy does not equal profitable — and you deserve both.

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