Your Guide to Going Self-Employed in the UK Sugaring Industry
The simple steps to start working for yourself as a professional sugarist
So, you’ve fallen in love with the idea of sugaring. Maybe you’ve trained (or are about to), and now you’re wondering: “How do I actually become self-employed and make this my job?”
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get started in the UK beauty industry as your own boss.
1. Get Trained & Qualified
Before anything else, you need the right skills. Take a professional sugaring course that covers technique, hygiene, and client care. If you're brand new to beauty, look for beginner-friendly training options like the ones offered by Green & Gold Sugar.
2. Register as Self-Employed
Once you start earning money from sugaring services, you’ll need to register as self-employed with HMRC. It’s free and easy to do.
Register here: https://www.gov.uk/set-up-sole-trader
From there, you’ll be responsible for submitting an annual Self Assessment tax return. Keep track of your income and expenses from the start - it’ll make tax time much easier.
3. Get Insured
Professional insurance is a must. It protects both you and your clients in case something goes wrong. You’ll need a policy that covers sugaring treatments.
Popular providers in the UK include:
- ABT
- Salon Gold
- BABTAC
- Professional Beauty Direct
4. Set Up Your Space
You don’t need a full salon to launch. Many successful sugarists work from:
- A home treatment room
- A room rental within a salon
- A mobile setup, travelling to clients
Just make sure your space is clean, private, and comfortable for your clients.
5. Stock Up on Professional Products
Working with high-quality products will make a big difference in your results—and client retention. At Green & Gold Sugar, we offer pro-level sugaring paste, prep and aftercare, and retail.
6. Build Your Presence
Being self-employed means getting your name out there. Start by creating a simple brand presence:
- Set up an Instagram or Facebook business page
- Use your name or a brand that reflects your vibe
- Post regularly - before/afters, skincare tips, behind the scenes
- Create a Google My Business listing for local visibility
7. Grow at Your Own Pace
You can start part-time while still working another job, or jump straight in. The beauty of self-employment is that it grows with you. Many sugarists begin small and build a steady stream of loyal clients over time.
You're Not Doing It Alone
At Green & Gold Sugar, we’re more than a training provider - we’re your industry cheerleaders. From expert-led courses to professional products and community support, we’re here for every step of your journey into self-employment.