Best Client Management Software for Beauty Salons (2026)
Build a client database that drives repeat visits — with notes, formulas, history, and automated retention campaigns.
The Problem
Beauty salons retain only 30–40% of first-time clients on average. Most salons lose clients not because the service was bad — but because there was no follow-up, no personalization, and no reason to return. Software-driven client management can increase retention to 60–70% and increase average visit frequency by 25–40%.
- →Average salon retains only 30–40% of first-time clients
- →Client notes (color formulas, preferences, allergies) are kept on paper or in the stylist's head
- →No system for identifying which clients haven't returned in 30–60 days
- →Staff turnover means client knowledge walks out the door when stylists leave
- →No automated follow-up to bring lapsed clients back
Top 5 Software Solutions
Ranked for client management software for beauty salons
Vagaro
★★★★☆4.7/5Comprehensive CRM built into salon management
Best for: Multi-staff salons wanting full client history
Boulevard
★★★★☆4.7/5Personalized client experience with smart notes
Best for: Premium salons focused on client retention
Mangomint
★★★★☆4.9/5Highest-rated client management experience
Best for: Established salons wanting best-in-class retention tools
Fresha
★★★★☆4.6/5Free client management with automated campaigns
Best for: Cost-conscious salons with large client bases
Feature Comparison
How top platforms compare on client management software for beauty salons capabilities
| Feature | Vagaro | Boulevard | Mangomint | Fresha |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Client Profile with Service History | ||||
| Color Formula Notes | ||||
| Allergy & Patch Test Tracking | Forms add-on | Limited | ||
| Before/After Photos | Forms add-on | |||
| Automated Rebooking Campaigns | ||||
| Lapsed Client Alerts | ||||
| Client Birthday Campaigns | ||||
| Client Spend Tracking | ||||
| Review Request Automation |
Pricing Comparison
Cost of client management software for beauty salons capabilities across platforms
| Software | Plan | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vagaro | All plans | From $30/mo | Full CRM included at all price points |
| Boulevard | Essentials+ | From $176/mo | Smart client notes and retention tools |
| Mangomint | Essentials+ | From $165/mo | Best-rated client management |
| Fresha | Free | $0/mo | Full client management at no cost |
* Prices are per user/month billed annually. Contact vendors for current pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything attorneys ask about client management software for beauty salons
How do I build a client database for my salon?
Start with your salon booking software — it automatically creates a client profile every time someone books. Import existing contacts from your phone, spreadsheet, or previous software. Most platforms (Vagaro, Fresha, Mangomint) have import tools for CSV files. Over 3–6 months of active use, your database naturally grows with visit history, notes, and preferences.
How do salons track client color formulas?
All major salon platforms allow adding notes to client profiles that stylists update after each visit. Vagaro, Boulevard, and Mangomint have dedicated formula/notes fields. Some platforms with forms add-ons (Mangomint Forms, Boulevard Prestige) allow structured formula templates. The key: staff must consistently update notes after every color service.
How do I retain more salon clients?
The highest-ROI retention tactics in order: (1) Pre-book next appointment at checkout — before clients leave, (2) Automated rebooking SMS at 6–8 week intervals for color clients, (3) Lapsed client reactivation campaigns for clients not seen in 30–60 days, (4) Birthday promotions, (5) Loyalty program with points. Platforms like Vagaro and Boulevard automate all of these.
What should I keep in client notes?
Essential client notes: color formula with developer ratio and processing time, allergy history and patch test results, service preferences ('always likes foils, not full color'), product preferences, personal details that build rapport (kids' names, upcoming events mentioned), and any sensitivities. Notes are most valuable when every stylist updates them consistently.
Can I see which clients haven't returned in 60 days?
Yes. Vagaro, Boulevard, Mangomint, and Fresha all have 'lapsed client' reporting that shows clients who haven't visited since a specific date. You can then send targeted reactivation campaigns to this segment. Vagaro and Fresha let you automate these — setting up a campaign that automatically sends to anyone who hasn't booked in 8 weeks.
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