The demand for beauty and cosmetic products in Kenya has been on a steady rise over the past decade. In just a few years, small retailers in this industry have expanded into large beauty stores, with multiple branches across the region. This growth clearly shows how promising the cosmetics business is.
Today, we’ll guide you on how to start your own small cosmetics shop with the least possible capital. Remember, the key to success is: start small, grow steadily.
Where to Source Cosmetic Products at Wholesale Prices
To maximize profits, you need to buy your stock at the lowest possible prices. Nairobi offers the best wholesale deals, particularly in the downtown areas along Dubois Road, River Road, and Munyu Road.
Some of the best places to source cosmetics at wholesale prices include:
✅ Perida Business Centre
✅ Kamukunji Trading Centre
✅ Best Lady (Ronald Ngala)
Take your time to explore different suppliers before making bulk purchases to ensure you get the best deals.
Fastest Moving Cosmetic Products
The best-selling items in a cosmetics shop are everyday essentials—products that customers buy regularly. Some of the top-selling items include:
💄 Beauty Products – Foundation, lipstick, face powder (Ponds, Sleek, MAC)
💇♀️ Hair Care – Hair food, gel, shampoos, conditioners
🧖♀️ Hair Accessories – Weaves, wigs, braids
💍 Fashion Accessories – Bangles, earrings, necklaces
Stocking these products ensures that you always have something that customers need. Join our whatsapp Community, Click here
Legal Requirements for Starting a Cosmetics Business
The only mandatory legal requirement for a physical cosmetics shop is a Single Business Permit, which varies by county. However, if you prefer to sell online, you can avoid this cost altogether and run your business through:
📌 Facebook and Instagram Shops
📌 WhatsApp Business
📌 A Personal E-commerce Website Join our whatsapp Community, Click here
Finding the Right Location for Your Shop
If you’re starting small, you can begin as a freelancer, selling directly to clients or online. However, as your customer base grows, having a physical shop increases credibility and trust.
📍 In Nairobi, a 10ft x 5ft stall in a high-traffic area costs around Ksh20,000 per month in rent. Some landlords also charge goodwill, while others don’t—so be sure to compare before settling on a location.
If you’re outside Nairobi, rent prices vary. For instance:
🏢 Makongeni, Thika: From Ksh10,000 per month
🏢 Nairobi CBD: Between Ksh50,000 – Ksh100,000 per month
How to Grow Your Cosmetics Business
In the first few months, you need to be proactive in marketing your business. Customers won’t just walk in—you have to go after them!
🚀 Strategies to Boost Sales:
✔️ Market to office workers & offer door-to-door deliveries 📦
✔️ Start a fashion or beauty blog to attract online customers ✍️
✔️ Leverage TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for promotions 📱
The more visible your business is, the faster it will grow! Join our whatsapp Community, Click here
Is the Cosmetics Business Profitable?
Yes! While competition is high, demand is growing every day, making this an excellent industry to invest in.
💰 Profit Margins:
✔️ Lipstick, foundation, face powder (Sleek, MAC, Ponds): Over 200% ROI
✔️ Hair food, weaves, and shampoos: Around 20% ROI
For additional income, you can also start selling custom-made perfumes and branded beauty products.
How Much Capital Do You Need?
💼 Starting as a Freelancer (No Stall):
👉 Ksh50,000 is enough for initial stock and delivery expenses.
🏢 Setting Up a Small Stall:
👉 Budget ranges from Ksh100,000 in estates like Thika to Ksh500,000 in Nairobi CBD (covering rent, stock, and setup costs).
How Much Can You Earn?
📈 If you hustle aggressively, here’s what you can expect:
✔️ Small Online/Freelance Business:
- Sales of up to Ksh5,000 per day
- 40% profit margin → Monthly profit of around Ksh50,000
✔️ Small Physical Stall in a Good Location:
- Sales of up to Ksh15,000 per day
- 25% profit margin (higher running costs)
Final Thoughts
Starting a cosmetics business is perfect for anyone who is passionate about beauty and fashion and ready to hustle to keep customers happy. Join our whatsapp Community, Click here
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