Build Your Beauty Specialist Profile in the United States

What your profile page should contain

Your Websta profile page works like a small website for your business. Start with a clear description of who you are and what you do. Include your location - the town or neighbourhood where you work or where clients come to you - because people search by place. If you work across multiple towns or states, list the areas you serve.

Add a services section that lists what you offer. Keep descriptions straightforward: what the service is, how long it takes, and what the client gets. Examples might include hair styling, makeup application, skincare consultations, or nail services. You set the price for each service.

Photos are essential. Add images that show your work clearly - before-and-after shots if relevant, finished styles or looks, your workspace if clients visit you, and professional headshots if those matter for your trade. Good lighting and clear focus help potential clients understand your style and quality.

Set up a way for people to book or request quotes. Websta lets you offer online booking for appointments or quote requests where people describe what they need and you respond with your offer. Choose what works for your business - some beauty specialists use booking for regular services and quotes for custom work.

Languages on your profile

Publish your profile in English. Depending on your location and the communities you serve, you may want to add another language - Spanish is spoken by millions across the United States. Check what languages your potential clients use in your area. You control which languages appear on your profile.

How people in the United States search for beauty services

Clients in the United States use online platforms to find local service providers by type of service and location. On Websta, the beauty specialists marketplace lets people search by the service they need and the place where they want it done. Someone might search for 'hair styling near me' or 'makeup artist in [town name]'. When they find your profile, they see your services, photos, and can contact you directly.

Search behaviour varies by region and community. In cities, people often search online before booking. In smaller towns, word-of-mouth and local visibility still matter, but having an online profile makes you findable. Ensure your location information is accurate so search results point the right people to you.

Licenses and legal requirements for beauty work

Beauty work in the United States is regulated at the state level, not nationally. Licensing rules, training hours, and allowed services vary widely by state. Some states require licences for hair, makeup, and nails; others have different rules for different services. Self-employment rules also differ between states.

Before you start, check with your state's licensing board or cosmetology board to confirm what you need to do legally. You may need a state licence, a business licence, liability insurance, or to comply with specific health and safety rules. Some states allow certain services without a formal cosmetology licence; others do not.

If you work from home, check local zoning rules and any lease or housing agreement you have. Some areas restrict home-based businesses. If you rent a chair or space in a salon, confirm the terms and what the salon owner handles versus what you do.

Payment and money handling

Websta uses Stripe to process card payments. When a client pays through your Websta profile, the money goes to your own bank account - you do not move funds between platforms. You set your service prices, and you receive the payment less Stripe's standard processing fee.

Keep records of what you earn for tax purposes. In the United States, self-employed people must report income and typically pay self-employment tax. Talk to an accountant or check IRS guidance on what records you need and when you file taxes.

What to set up in your first hour

Start with the basics. Write your name, location, and a short description of your work - one or two sentences about what services you do and your experience. Add your main contact information.

List your top three to five services with realistic descriptions and the time each takes. Do not try to list everything at once; you can add more later.

Upload two to four clear photos. If you do not have polished before-and-after shots yet, a photo of your workspace and a professional photo of yourself are a solid start. Avoid blurry or poorly lit images.

Choose whether you want clients to book appointments directly or request quotes. If you book appointments, set your available hours. If you take quote requests, write what information you need from the client.

Growing your presence over time

Your profile is not finished on day one. Add more photos as you complete work. Update your service list if you add new offerings. Keep your hours and location accurate.

Ask satisfied clients if they are willing to describe their experience. Websta lets clients leave remarks about working with you, and these help other people decide to contact you.

Stay active on the platform. Respond quickly to booking requests and quote inquiries. People are more likely to choose a provider who communicates promptly.