Quick answer: Start by researching current market rates in your area for each service you offer, then price at or near the mid-market rate — not at the bottom. Underpricing to attract early clients sets a precedent that is difficult to reverse and attracts price-sensitive clients who rarely become loyal regulars. Your price signals your quality. Bela's Beauty Boss framework covers pricing strategy in detail as part of every course and bundle.
Why you should not underprice when starting out
New beauty technicians almost always feel pressure to price low to compensate for being new. This logic is understandable but counterproductive. A low price does not build client loyalty — it builds price sensitivity. The clients who book you because you are cheapest will leave the moment someone cheaper appears. Raising prices later is significantly harder than starting at the right level. Existing clients who booked at $60 will resist a move to $90; new clients who have never booked you have no price anchor and will pay $90 without comparison.
How to research market rates in your area
Search Instagram and Google for beauty technicians in your suburb and the surrounding area. Look at their service menus and note the prices. Check Fresha — the booking platform most Australian beauty technicians use — where many technicians publish their pricing publicly. Your research should tell you the low, mid, and high range for each service in your market. Price at mid-market or slightly below to start, with a clear plan to reach mid-market within your first 6 months.
What are realistic price ranges for common beauty services in Australia?
These are general market guides — figures vary by location, service quality, and clientele. Metro areas (Sydney, Melbourne) sit at the higher end; regional areas typically sit lower.
- Classic lash full set: $80–$130
- Volume lash full set: $120–$180
- Lash infill (classic): $55–$90
- Lash lift and tint: $80–$120
- Brow lamination and tint: $70–$110
- Brow wax and tint: $40–$70
- Manicure (gel polish): $50–$80
- Pedicure: $60–$100
- Acrylic full set: $70–$120
- Builder gel (BIAB) full set: $80–$130
- Nail infill: $50–$90
Figures vary by state and market. These are starting reference points, not fixed rules.
Should I charge a model rate for my first clients?
Yes — but define it clearly and use it for a limited time only. Tell clients upfront: this is a model rate while I complete my training assessments; my standard rate once I am certified will be $X. This sets the expectation of a future price increase from day one. Most technicians offer model rates for their first 5–10 bookings per service, then move to standard pricing.
How should I handle payment?
Take payment at the time of the appointment. Square, Stripe, or a tap-to-pay reader makes in-person card payment simple. Fresha (free booking platform) also handles payments at booking or at the appointment. Requiring a deposit at booking is standard practice for lash and nail services — a $20–$30 non-refundable deposit filters out no-shows significantly.
When should I raise my prices?
When your appointment book is consistently 80 per cent or more full. A full book means demand exceeds your current capacity at your current price — raising prices is the correct response. Give existing clients 4–6 weeks notice with a short explanation. Most loyal clients will stay; a small number will not, and their spots open up for higher-value new clients.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I charge for lash extensions when I am new?
Research mid-market rates in your area (typically $80–$130 for a classic full set in Australian metro areas) and price at or slightly below mid-market. Offer a defined model rate for your first handful of clients while portfolio-building, then move to your standard rate.
Should I charge for travel if I do mobile beauty?
Yes. A travel or callout component of $10–$30 depending on distance is standard for mobile services in Australia. Build it into your pricing from day one.
Do I need to charge GST?
You are only required to register for and charge GST if your annual turnover exceeds $75,000. Most new beauty technicians are below this threshold initially. Speak to an accountant about your specific situation.
How do I train to start my own beauty business?
Bela's course bundles — Nail Bundle, Lash Mastery Bundle, Brow Mastery Bundle, and Hair Extensions Bundle — all include the Beauty Boss framework covering pricing, ABN setup, insurance, client acquisition, and booking systems. Interest-free payment plans from roughly $15–$35 per week. Visit the bundles page for exact current pricing.
Ready to launch your beauty business? Explore Bela's bundles — training, kit, 1:1 mentorship, and the full Beauty Boss business-launch framework included. Interest-free payments from $15–$35/week.
