2015
2
$180,000
$40,000
$350,000
No
Imagine a beauty destination where advanced skincare technology meets inclusive premium service—one that champions skin health, confidence, and community. That’s the promise behind Harlem Zen, a sophisticated aesthetic-spa concept tailored to the underserved, high-growth segment of consumers with pigmented skin tones and beyond. With a mission grounded in delivering safe and effective professional skincare services for all skin tones, the brand has built its reputation on laser hair removal, tailored facials, and wellness treatments delivered with precision, warmth, and a stylish experience.
For a savvy investor seeking to enter the booming med-spa and aesthetics industry in the U.S., Harlem Zen offers more than a treatment menu—it offers a brand story, a niche with spending-power, and a replicable business model. You join a company that not only speaks to mainstream demand but reaches into a vibrant multicultural demographic often overlooked by large spa chains. The opportunity: own and operate a turnkey studio where premium treatment meets inclusive mission, with the support of a franchisor that brings systems, training, and branding to the table.
Established Year: 2015
Headquarters: Harlem, New York City
Founder: Angela McTair
Harlem Zen was founded in 2015 in the heart of Harlem, New York, by Angela McTair, a licensed aesthetician, skincare scientist, and business strategist with degrees from Carnegie Mellon University and The Wharton School of Business. Her vision was to create a modern, inclusive med-spa that delivered high-tech skincare and laser treatments designed for all skin tones—especially those often underserved or overlooked by traditional beauty clinics.
The brand began as a boutique treatment studio serving the local Harlem community and quickly grew into a premium, full-service aesthetic spa known for its advanced laser hair removal, facials, and holistic wellness treatments. By focusing on safe, effective, and culturally inclusive beauty experiences, Harlem Zen built a loyal clientele and a strong reputation within the medical spa industry.
By 2017, Harlem Zen expanded beyond New York City, opening a second flagship location in Atlanta, Georgia, demonstrating the model’s scalability and success in diverse markets. The company formalized its franchise program in 2019, enabling qualified entrepreneurs to replicate the Harlem Zen experience in major U.S. cities.
Harlem Zen operates within the beauty, wellness, and medical aesthetics industry, a fast-growing sector valued in the billions and driven by rising consumer demand for non-invasive treatments and customized skincare solutions. The brand’s focus on laser technology suitable for pigmented skin, inclusive product formulations, and customer education has set it apart from competitors and earned national recognition as a pioneer in multicultural aesthetics.
Today, Harlem Zen remains privately owned and operated by Angela McTair and her corporate team, who oversee franchise development, quality assurance, and brand integrity. With two company-owned flagship spas and a growing network of franchise opportunities nationwide, Harlem Zen continues its mission to make professional skincare accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all.
Pre-launch support
Site selection and demographic analysis: The franchisor assists with identifying high-potential locations based on population, income, and market gaps.
Design and fit-out guidance: Franchisees receive support in creating a stylish, comfortable studio layout consistent with Harlem Zen’s branding.
Equipment procurement and supplier network: The company provides approved suppliers for laser devices, treatment furniture, and skincare products.
Initial training: Franchisees complete a structured two-week training at headquarters followed by one-week on-site support before launch.
Operational support
Ongoing marketing and brand promotion: Franchisees receive national and local marketing support, social media content, and advertising templates to drive traffic and brand recognition.
Operational systems: Harlem Zen provides standardized treatment protocols, safety procedures, client management systems, and best practices to ensure consistency across all studios.
Inventory management: Franchisees benefit from preferred pricing and supplier relationships that reduce operating costs and simplify logistics.
Academic & ongoing education
Annual refresher training: Franchisees participate in regular updates on new skincare technology, products, and procedures.
Research & innovation: Harlem Zen continues to enhance its services through ongoing research into laser treatments, skincare for pigmented tones, and overall wellness innovation.
Dedicated support team: Franchisees have access to operational, marketing, and business development experts throughout their journey.
Other key features
Exclusive territories: Franchisees are granted protected areas to secure their local market.
Turnkey launch model: From build-out to marketing, the franchise is designed for smooth entry into the business with step-by-step guidance.
Harlem Zen seeks driven, customer-focused entrepreneurs who align with its mission of inclusive beauty and wellness. The ideal candidate demonstrates:
Entrepreneurial drive: A proactive, motivated owner who thrives in a results-oriented business.
Customer-centric mindset: Commitment to delivering premium guest experiences and high satisfaction rates.
Industry interest: Prior experience or strong interest in spa, beauty, healthcare, or wellness is advantageous but not required.
Investment capacity: Financial ability to fund build-out, equipment, and early-stage operations with working capital reserves.
Community focus: Desire to serve diverse, multicultural communities with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment.
Hands-on leadership: Active involvement in daily operations, especially during the early growth stage, to ensure strong culture and service standards.
Growth vision: An eye toward expanding into multiple units and building a long-term regional presence.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | Approx. $40,000 – $50,000 (one-time initial fee for brand rights, training, and system access) |
| Estimated Total Investment | $180,000 – $350,000, depending on location size, leasehold improvements, and local construction costs |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $100,000 – $150,000 recommended |
| Net Worth Requirement | $300,000 + |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales (average industry rate for service-based wellness franchises) |
| Marketing / Brand Fund Contribution | 2% of gross sales (for national marketing, brand development, and digital campaigns) |
| Franchise Term | 10 years, renewable upon mutual agreement |
| Training Duration | 2 weeks classroom training + 1 week on-site support before and after opening |
| Break-Even Period | Typically 18 – 36 months, depending on location performance and owner involvement |
| Average Studio Size | 1,200 – 2,000 sq ft |
| Initial Working Capital | Approx. $25,000 – $50,000 recommended for the first 3 months of operation |
| Expected ROI Range | 15% – 25% annualized return once stabilized, subject to market and operational factors |
| Revenue Streams | Laser hair removal, facials & skincare, men’s grooming, retail skincare products, memberships, body & wellness treatments |
| Ongoing Support Fees | Included in royalty; covers marketing assets, training refreshers, and operations guidance |
| Territory Rights | Exclusive territory protection within designated geographic zones |
