When it comes to skincare and cosmetics, proper hygiene and easy access to the right tools can make a huge difference in a customer’s experience. As a beauty supply store owner, you have the opportunity to educate your customers on proper makeup brush hygiene and offer them makeup starter kits that will help them build their skincare and cosmetic routines. These simple but effective strategies can also help increase your store’s sales and build trust with your customers.
1. Teaching Customers How to Clean Makeup Brushes & Tools
Makeup brushes, sponges, and applicators are often the unsung heroes of a flawless look. However, improper cleaning can lead to buildup of makeup residue, dirt, and bacteria, which can cause skin irritation and breakouts. Educating your customers about the importance of cleaning their makeup tools—and how to do it properly—is an easy way to enhance their overall skincare and makeup experience.
Why It’s Important:
- Health and Hygiene: Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your customer’s skin clear and healthy.
- Prolongs the Life of Tools: Clean brushes last longer and perform better.
- Better Makeup Application: Clean brushes provide smoother application and more even blending.
How to Clean Makeup Brushes and Tools:
- Deep Clean Regularly: Encourage customers to wash their brushes and sponges weekly. Suggest using gentle cleansers, such as a brush shampoo or mild baby shampoo, to keep the bristles soft.
- Use a Gentle Scrub: Recommend a brush cleaner or cleansing spray for a quick spot clean between washes.
- Dry Properly: Brushes should be laid flat or hung with bristles pointing down to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part) and damaging the brush.
- Make It Fun: Many customers struggle to commit to regular brush cleaning. Make it more appealing by offering stylish brush cleaning mats, sprays, or tools that simplify the process.
Tip: Stock cleaning products alongside makeup tools in your store, offering convenient brush cleaning kits that include everything customers need for a thorough clean. Display these near the checkout area to remind customers to pick them up as part of their routine.
2. How to Sell & Merchandise Makeup Starter Kits
Starting a makeup or skincare routine can feel overwhelming, especially for customers who are new to the world of beauty. One effective way to simplify the process is by offering makeup starter kits or skincare kits designed for beginners. These kits help customers get started with essential products and take the guesswork out of building a routine.
Here are some ways to merchandise and promote these kits, along with product suggestions.
Makeup Starter Kits:
For customers who are just beginning their makeup journey, a makeup starter kit should contain the basic essentials to create a polished look without overwhelming them with too many products.
Must-Have Products for a Makeup Starter Kit:
- Foundation or Tinted Moisturizer: A versatile base product that matches different skin tones. Recommend liquid or stick foundations for easy application.
- Concealer: A full-coverage concealer that can double as both under-eye and blemish coverage.
- Eyeshadow Palette: Choose a neutral, travel-friendly palette with matte and shimmer options that can be used for both day and night looks.
- Mascara: Recommend volumizing or lengthening mascaras that suit different lash types.
- Lip Balm & Lipstick: A neutral lip color and a hydrating balm are perfect for beginners. Stick to natural shades that complement various skin tones.
- Blush: Suggest a cream or powder blush that is easy to blend for a natural flush.
- Makeup Brushes: A basic set that includes a foundation brush, blending sponge, and eyeshadow brushes will cover the essentials.
How to Merchandise Makeup Starter Kits:
- Offer Customization: Allow customers to create their own starter kits by selecting their shades of foundation, blush, and lipstick, or give them the option to purchase individual items at a discounted rate when bundled together.
- Point-of-Purchase Displays: Position makeup starter kits in high-traffic areas near the front of the store or checkout counters. You can use eye-catching displays to attract customers who may be interested in simplifying their beauty routine.
- Educate Through Signage: Use clear signage to indicate that these kits are designed for beginners, highlighting their convenience and versatility.
Skincare Starter Kits:
For customers looking to start or upgrade their skincare routine, a skincare starter kit should cover all the essential steps without overwhelming them with too many products. A simple, well-rounded routine is ideal for beginners or anyone looking to refresh their regimen.
Must-Have Products for a Skincare Starter Kit:
- Cleanser: A gentle, non-stripping facial cleanser suitable for all skin types (e.g., foaming, gel, or cream).
- Toner: A hydrating or exfoliating toner that balances the skin and prepares it for moisturizer.
- Moisturizer: A lightweight, daily moisturizer that works for the customer’s skin type (e.g., dry, oily, combination).
- Sunscreen: An SPF product to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, ideally with broad-spectrum protection.
- Face Mask or Serum: Suggest a multi-use hydrating sheet mask or a serum targeting specific concerns like acne or dullness.
How to Merchandise Skincare Starter Kits:
- Gift Options: Position skincare starter kits as ideal gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions. Package them in attractive boxes or with a special ribbon.
- Display with Skincare Education: Print out and display product tutorials or step-by-step skincare routines, showing how the kits work together. You could also offer brochures with easy-to-follow skincare regimens.
- Promote Sample Trials: Allow customers to sample products before they purchase. You can offer trial-sized versions of the kit or samples of key products to help them decide.
3. How to Teach Customers About Building Their Own Skincare & Makeup Routines
In addition to offering starter kits, educating your customers on how to build their own skincare and makeup routines is key.
Skincare Routine:
- Step 1: Cleanse – The first step to every skincare routine should be a gentle cleanser that suits their skin type.
- Step 2: Treat – Suggest a toner or serum to address their specific skin concerns (e.g., acne, dryness, or hyperpigmentation).
- Step 3: Moisturize – Choose a moisturizer that keeps their skin hydrated without clogging pores.
- Step 4: Protect – Remind customers to always apply sunscreen in the morning as the final step.
Makeup Routine:
- Step 1: Prep & Prime – Help customers understand the importance of prepping their skin before makeup with a primer or moisturizer.
- Step 2: Base – Foundation or tinted moisturizer, followed by concealer for blemishes or dark circles.
- Step 3: Eyes & Lips – Eyeshadow, mascara, eyeliner, and lip color for a complete look.
- Step 4: Set & Finish – Suggest a setting spray or powder to keep makeup in place all day.
