The nail industry in the United States is expanding rapidly, providing stable income for hundreds of thousands of salon owners and nail technicians. 

Why Nail Salon Owners Need Clear Regulations to Protect Their Business

Running a nail salon may seem simple — good skills plus great service. But in reality, it’s one of the most sensitive sectors in the beauty service industry. Every nail procedure directly impacts a client’s body, from the thin skin around their nails to the vulnerable areas of the feet.

A small mistake — such as cutting too deeply, improper tool sanitization, or ignoring a client’s medical condition — can lead to serious consequences like infections, fungus transmission, or even long-term injury.

In the U.S., the legal system is strict, and clients have the right to sue a salon if they can prove the service caused harm. In 2023 alone, several salon owners were forced to pay hefty settlements or even shut down because they lacked proper consent forms, refusal guidelines for high-risk clients, or clear refund policies.

>>> Related:  Investing in Nail Salons in the USA: A Golden Opportunity for Vietnamese Entrepreneurs

10 Essential Regulations Every Nail Salon Owner Should Implement

1. Health & Infection Control Policy

Client and staff safety must always come first. Conditions like nail fungus, dermatitis, or open wounds can easily spread or worsen if not handled properly.

Recommended policy:

• Politely refuse services for clients with visible infections or medical concerns.

• Train staff on how to handle sensitive situations professionally.

• Ensure strict sanitization of tools, spa chairs, and work areas following OSHA and State Board of Cosmetology standards.

Posting this policy visibly helps reassure clients that your salon is clean, safe, and professional.

2. Special Care Guidelines for Diabetic Clients

Clients with diabetes have a high risk of infection if their skin is cut. There have been lawsuits involving diabetic clients who experienced bleeding or infections after a nail service.

Your policy should state:

• Clients must disclose medical conditions when booking.

• The salon will not cut cuticles or skin for diabetic clients — only surface cleaning and gentle care are allowed.

• Services for high-risk clients will be limited to safe procedures only.

This protects both the client and the salon from legal risk.

3. Spa Chair & Equipment Safety Rules

Spa chairs, foot tubs, and electric filing machines all have safety limits. If a client sits incorrectly or exceeds the weight limit (e.g., 250 lbs / 113 kg), it can lead to equipment failure or accidents.

Policies to include:

• Post usage instructions directly on each chair.

• Clear maximum weight limits.

• Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment.

These rules prevent accidents and reduce costly repairs.

4. Handling Dissatisfied Clients & Refund Policy

Client dissatisfaction is inevitable. If not managed properly, disappointed clients may leave negative reviews on Google or Yelp, damaging your salon’s reputation.

Suggested approach:

• Offer free fix or repair within 3 days.

• Clearly state that completed services are non-refundable.

• Train staff to handle complaints calmly and professionally.

This approach maintains goodwill while protecting your revenue.

>>> Related: Nail Salon Compliance & Hygiene Checklist for the USA

5. Appointment & Late Arrival Policy

Late arrivals or no-shows disrupt the entire schedule and affect both staff productivity and other clients.

Recommended rules:

• Appointments may be canceled or rescheduled if clients are more than 15 minutes late.

• Require deposits for premium services.

• Send clear reminders via SMS or online booking platforms.

This keeps operations smooth and fair for everyone.

6. Gift Card & Promotion Policy

Gift cards are a valuable revenue source but often cause disputes when clients want refunds or try to redeem expired cards.

State clearly:

• No cash exchange.

• No refunds or replacements for lost cards.

• Fixed expiration dates (e.g., valid for 6 months).

This eliminates confusion and protects your business.

7. Child Safety Policy

Children can be unpredictable and may accidentally spill chemicals or disturb other clients. There have been real cases of kids getting burned from touching acetone.

Your policy should include:

• Children under 10 who are not receiving services must be supervised at all times.

• Encourage clients to arrange childcare when possible.

This protects child safety and maintains a calm salon environment.

8. Personal Belongings Disclaimer

Clients often leave their bags or phones on the table and forget them. If items go missing, the salon can be blamed unfairly.

Recommended approach:

• A visible disclaimer stating the salon is not responsible for lost personal items.

• Gentle reminders for clients to keep their belongings with them.

• Offer small lockers for clients who need extra security.

This reduces legal exposure and enhances customer trust.

9. Respectful & Quiet Environment Policy

A nail salon should be a relaxing space, not a noisy one. Loud conversations, speakerphone calls, or disrespectful behavior can disturb others.

Suggested rules:

• Phones must be on silent or vibrate mode.

• No speakerphone or loud videos.

• The salon reserves the right to refuse service to disrespectful clients.

A respectful environment enhances the client experience and elevates your brand image.

10. Payment & Legal Responsibility Policy

Some clients leave without paying, causing stress and risk for staff.

Clear guidelines should include:

• Payment required immediately after service.

• If a client leaves without paying, the salon will contact law enforcement and pursue charges.

• Encourage clients to prepare their preferred payment method before the service begins.

These rules protect your business from financial loss.

>>> Related: Essential Laws & Regulations for Opening a Nail Salon in the USA