How to Start a Cosmetic Shop in Kenya

Opening a cosmetic shop is more than just having pretty displays and makeup brands. It’s about building trust, ensuring safety, and running things by the rules so your customers feel confident. If you love beauty products and want to see your own shop thriving in Kenya, this guide shows you what you need, how much it might cost, and how to begin successfully.

Step by Step Guide

Choosing the Business Model & Location

• Decide whether your shop will be physical only, online only, or a mix.

• Find a high traffic location (mall, busy street, plaza) with good visibility and access.

• Make sure your space has enough area for displays, storage, point of sale and safety measures.

Legal Registration & Licensing

• Register your business name with the Business Registration Service (BRS).

• Obtain your KRA PIN and register for required taxes (KRA).

• Apply for a Single Business Permit from your county government. This is mandatory. Some counties charge between KES 3,000 to KES 15,000 depending on size.

• Get health and hygiene certification if selling skincare, medicated or sensitive cosmetic products.

• If you’ll import or manufacture cosmetics, ensure compliance with Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).

• If applicable, obtain excise stamps from Kenya Revenue Authority for applicable items (KRA).

Stocking & Suppliers

• Identify reliable local wholesalers or importers. Quality matters because counterfeit or substandard cosmetics damage your reputation.

• If you want your own brand, consider manufacturers, packaging, safety testing.

• Budget enough capital for initial stock that covers popular fast moving items (creams, lipsticks, hair care, skincare, etc.).

Shop Setup, Staffing & Operations

• Fit your shop with shelves, counters, mirrors, lighting, display stands.

• Ensure good interior including lighting, ventilation, secure storage.

• Hire any required staff (salespeople, cashier). Train them in customer service and product knowledge.

• Implement hygiene practices and safety — especially for testers or any makeup brushes.

Marketing, Branding & Sales

• Create your brand name, logo, store design, packaging if applicable.

• Use social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) to showcase products, run ads, engage customers.

• Consider eCommerce or marketplace platforms if online sales are part of your plan.

• Offer promotions, loyalty programs or small freebies to attract first customers.

Costs & Budget Estimate

• Depending on location and scale, startup costs range from KES 100,000 to KES 500,000 for small to medium shops.

• Some estimate starting a cosmetic shop in Nairobi with about KES 300,000 to cover rent, shelves, stock, permits.

Important Notes & Tips

• Always check Kenyan regulations on cosmetics (imports/manufacturing) to avoid legal issues.

• Be mindful of excise duty or stamp requirements for certain cosmetic items.

• Maintain high standards of hygiene and safety to protect clients and comply with health laws.

• Do not overspend on fancy decor before establishing stable sales.

• Keep stock of fast-moving items and monitor what customers love so you can adjust inventory.

FAQs

Do I need to import cosmetics or can I stock local brands?
You can stock local brands. Many shops mix imported and local. Local brands often have easier regulatory compliance and lower import costs.

What health certification is needed for skincare products?
You will need health and hygiene certification; for medicated creams or sensitive skin products you may need approval from relevant health authorities.

How do I register business name and get tax PIN?
Use the eCitizen portal to register with the Business Registration Service, then apply for KRA PIN through iTax.

Is a physical shop necessary or can I start online?
You can start online or on social media. It’s cheaper for initial costs but physical presence builds trust. Many successful businesses do both.