Why do salons and spas commonly need business financing?
Salons and spas experience cash flow challenges that are unique to their industry. Some of the most common reasons owners apply for funding include:
• Upgrading equipment such as chairs, beds, wash stations, laser devices, or esthetics machines
• Renovating or refreshing the salon interior to stay competitive
• Purchasing products and retail inventory in bulk at discounted pricing
• Expanding to a second location
• Hiring additional stylists, estheticians, or technicians
• Seasonal slow periods during winter or post-holiday months
• Investing in digital marketing, online booking systems, and CRM tools
• Covering rent increases, utility costs, and rising staff wages
Many of these use cases require predictable monthly payments, making installment-style business loans a popular choice.
How much can a salon or spa borrow in Canada?
Most lenders offer salon and spa business loans ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 depending on:
• Monthly revenue
• Time in business
• Equipment value
• Whether the loan is secured or unsecured
• Historic performance and repeat client volume
• Credit score of the owner
If you're not sure which amount makes sense for your business, you can estimate projected payments using the business loan calculator available in the Smarter Loans tools library.
What types of salon and spa business loans are available?
Salon operators can choose from a variety of financing options depending on their goals and cash flow needs.
Term business loans
Fixed monthly payment loans used for upgrades, marketing, hiring, and expansion.
Equipment financing for salons and spas
Used for wash stations, chairs, esthetics devices, laser machines, IPL equipment, skin care systems, microblading tools, massage beds, and more.
Working capital loans
Short- to mid-term funding for day-to-day operations and cash flow gaps.
Merchant cash advances
Repayment based on daily or weekly sales — common for businesses with fluctuating revenue.
Business lines of credit
Flexible revolving credit for recurring expenses, reorder inventory, or emergency repairs.
Franchise and multi-location financing
For salon/spa brands expanding regionally.
You can compare different business lenders by visiting the business loans section on Smarter Loans.
What documents do salon and spa owners need to apply?
While requirements vary by lender, most request:
• Government-issued ID
• Business bank statements (3–6 months)
• Proof of business ownership
• Revenue documentation
• Equipment quotes (if financing equipment)
• Lease agreement if applying for renovation financing
Salon owners with fluctuating revenue can still qualify as long as deposits are consistent and the business is active.
Can bad credit salon or spa owners get funding?
Yes. Many lenders serving beauty and wellness businesses approve applications with lower credit scores if the salon shows steady revenue and consistent client bookings. Owners looking to rebuild their credit can also consider lenders listed in the bad credit business loans category available on Smarter Loans.
What can salon financing be used for?
Salon and spa operators across Canada use financing for:
• Laser/IPL devices
• Esthetics equipment
• Renovation and rebranding projects
• Adding staff or apprentices
• Launching new service categories (injectables, microblading, hair extensions, hydrofacials)
• Boosting marketing and social media advertising
• Purchasing high-end retail products for upselling
• Expanding to a new neighbourhood or city
If you're planning a large project, you can calculate borrowing costs ahead of time using the business loan calculator available on Smarter Loans.
Are business loans better than merchant cash advances for salons?
It depends on cash flow consistency.
Salons with predictable monthly revenue often prefer term loans.
Salons with fluctuating revenue may choose merchant cash advances since repayment adjusts with sales volume.
Comparing lender types through the business loans hub on Smarter Loans helps owners understand the pros and cons of each option.
Frequently asked questions about salon and spa financing in Canada
Can a salon finance skincare or hair product inventory?
Yes, inventory financing is commonly used to stock retail shelves or prepare for busy seasons.
Can a med spa finance injectables or medical esthetic equipment?
Yes. Many lenders provide specialized financing for med spa equipment and treatment room upgrades.
How long are repayment terms for salon business loans?
Terms typically range from 6 to 36 months depending on loan size and lender type.
Are online lenders safe for salon financing?
Online lenders listed on Smarter Loans are vetted and trusted across Canada.
Can a salon qualify even if rent is high?
Yes. High commercial rents are common in urban markets-lenders evaluate total revenue, not rent alone.
What is the best type of loan for a salon or spa?
Most owners choose an installment-style business loan or equipment financing, depending on whether the funding is for upgrades, expansion, or cash flow.
How can salon financing help increase client volume?
Funding allows salons to upgrade their space, hire additional stylists, run digital ad campaigns, or add high-margin services like facials, injectables, or laser treatments.
Can new salons or recently opened spas qualify for business loans?
Some lenders accept businesses with as little as 3–6 months in operation, especially if revenue is steady or the owner has strong personal credit.
Can I get financing for salon or spa renovations?
Yes. Renovation loans are common for salons refreshing their interior to stay competitive or rebranding after ownership changes.
What credit score do I need for a salon or spa business loan?
Many lenders approve applications starting around the mid-500s, while premium rates are available to businesses with stronger credit profiles.
Can independent stylists or booth renters qualify for financing?
Self-employed stylists and estheticians can qualify through revenue-based lenders, especially when they show consistent deposit activity.
How fast can a salon or spa get funded?
Many online lenders serving salons and spas deposit funds within 24–48 hours after approval.
Can a spa finance laser machines, esthetic devices, or med spa equipment?
Yes. Equipment financing is one of the most common loan types in the beauty and aesthetics industry.
Do lenders look at online reviews or social media presence?
Some lenders consider business stability indicators such as online bookings, retention rates, and repeat clients — especially in service industries.
Does seasonality affect loan approval for salons and spas?
Seasonality does not prevent approval. Many lenders are familiar with slow winter periods or post-holiday dips and underwrite accordingly.

























