In the vibrant and fiercely competitive beauty market, every spa and beauty clinic is racing to secure its place in customers’ hearts. An eye-catching logo, a memorable name, or an inspiring slogan isn’t enough. What matters most is that these elements are legally protected through trademark registration. This is not merely an administrative formality—it’s a life-saving strategy to safeguard reputation, prevent copycats, and lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth. Here are the key points spa and beauty clinic owners in Vietnam need to understand to avoid losing both money and brand.

What is a trademark and why is it crucial for the beauty industry?

When customers mention names like “Lavie Beauty” or “Shynh House,” they’re not just recalling services—they’re remembering the brand experience. A trademark (including name, logo, color, tagline) is the tool that imprints that experience in customers’ minds.

In the beauty business, where trust and image account for up to 80% of purchase decisions, the risk of competitors copying your brand, using a similar name, or mimicking your image is high if you lack legal protection. A trademark without registration is like a house without a lock: anyone can enter and use it without you being able to stop them.

Common risks when you don’t register your trademark

Many spa owners have paid the price for not registering early. Here are some typical scenarios:

Trademark captured by others: Someone else registers the brand name you are using before you do. You lose not only the right to use it but may even face lawsuits.
Inability to expand: Without proper protection, you cannot legally franchise or open branches in new locations.
Advertising and partnership challenges: Running ads, securing sponsorships, or cooperating with third parties becomes difficult without proof of ownership.

How to register a trademark for spas and beauty clinics: a solid step-by-step guide

Trademark registration isn’t complicated if you follow the process and prepare carefully. Here are the essential steps:

Check registrability
A critical but often missed step. Many spa owners choose brand names without realizing someone else has already registered them. Clearance searches help you:
- Avoid infringement.
- Assess registration feasibility.
- Adjust name or design to improve approval chances.
Identify service classes
Under the Nice Classification, spa and beauty services usually fall under Class 44. Depending on your business direction, you might also need Class 3 (cosmetics), Class 35 (advertising, business), Class 41 (beauty training), etc. This is strategic to ensure comprehensive protection, especially if you plan to expand into cosmetics production or staff training.
Prepare the application and file the trademark
Required documents include:
- Trademark application form
- Trademark sample
- List of goods/services
- Power of attorney (if submitting via representative)
  The examination process takes about 12–18 months. However, priority rights date from the filing date—you gain early legal protection.
Monitor the application and respond promptly
The IP Office may request revisions, additional info, or issue oppositions if overlaps are detected. Having legal support helps you address these quickly and in compliance with regulations.

Optimal solution for spas and beauty clinics: structured trademark registration from the start

At DEDICA, we don’t just assist clients with filing; we also offer brand protection strategy from the outset. We will help you to:

Conduct clearance searches and assess legal risks.
Develop a registration plan covering multiple classes.
Handle refusals and trademark disputes.
Represent you before the IP Office to save time and cost.

Trademark registration is the first step but can determine your business’s long-term success. Don’t let your hard-earned brand—built with dedication and hundreds of millions in marketing—fall into the wrong hands due to a legal oversight.

In an era of “brand competition,” holding a trademark is a powerful shield that protects your image, credibility, and intellectual property. Begin your brand-building journey professionally—not just through great services and products but with thoughtful, strategic legal preparation.

DEDICA is proud to be the legal partner of many beauty businesses—from brand creation to business expansion. Let us help you affirm your brand’s value securely and sustainably.

Contact DEDICA Law Firm for expert legal consultation!
📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (WhatsApp, WeChat, Zalo supported)
🏢 Head office: 144 Võ Văn Tần St., Võ Thị Sáu Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
🕒 Working hours: Mon–Fri (8:30–18:00)
Reach out now for your first free consultation with our professional legal team!