The Expert&#;s Guide to Buying Laser Equipment
By Louis Silberman
Vanity and the pursuit of looking younger are ever-present elements in many people&#;s lives. The practice of esthetics has been present for centuries and can be traced as far back as the days of the pharaohs in ancient Egypt. Just as a painter creating a portrait, a composer drafting a sonata or a dancer performing fluid movement with the body, the work of an esthetician is an art in its own right. Instead of oil paint and canvas, esthetic professionals let their creativity shine through by providing relaxing and restorative treatments that improve the confidence and self-image of their clients.
Early esthetic professionals only had the limited resources around them with which to work. Today, modern estheticians are able to choose from an overwhelming number of treatment options. New scientific discoveries and advancements in technology are common, with the largest leaps made in the field of medical aesthetics and cosmetic lasers. Although treatments such as laser hair removal and photofacial skin rejuvenation are some of the most popular available, shopping for the equipment necessary to offer these services can be tricky. For the professionals who are in the market to purchase cosmetic laser equipment, this article will help remove the guesswork by answering important questions and providing inside details about the shopping process.
FIND A FOCUS
The first step in the shopping process is to look at your specific client demographic to see what types of treatments would be most appealing to it. Younger clients are typically drawn to laser hair removal, and more mature clients may lean toward photofacial skin rejuvenation and fractional laser wrinkle reduction. Client skin type is also important to consider. If the majority of your clients are of darker skin types&#;Fitzpatrick Skin Type Classification 4, 5 or 6&#;they might be unable to receive certain types of laser treatments successfully. After categorizing your clientele, it is time to select the treatment modality best suited for its needs. See Top Laser Treatment Modalities for a list of today&#;s most popular laser-based procedures. Once you have made this important decision, it is crucial to take many details into consideration when making this purchase.
Budget. Shopping for a laser can be fun and exciting, but remember not to let the thrill of the moment get in the way of common sense. Determining your budget is critical and should be done immediately. This will help narrow the search and prevent you from wasting effort researching equipment that is too expensive.
New or used. There are pros and cons to both options. Similar to new cars, cosmetic lasers are depreciable assets and begin losing value as soon as they are out of the box. Buying new equipment costs more, but allows for the ability to offer the most effective treatments. It also provides the opportunity to market the latest and greatest services to clients. Used equipment may be more affordable, but will employ older technology, and will have experienced the wear and tear of previous use.
Payment options. The average laser can cost anywhere from $50,000&#;250,000, which makes it a very significant asset to a business. This is why it is important to know all of the methods available to purchase a cosmetic laser. See Buying Method Equations for real-life payment and profit estimates for the four forms of payment listed below.
Warranty. As you can imagine, equipment repairs on cosmetic laser equipment can be costly. Just one breakdown can cost up to $3,000 in parts and labor without a warranty. When considering warranty options, there are two important questions to ask: If my equipment breaks down, is there a local company that can administer the repairs, or do I have to ship it to the factory; and will I receive a loaner machine to use while my equipment is being repaired?
A great way to determine whether a warranty price quote is competitive or not is to estimate the cost of repairing your equipment two times during a year. If the yearly cost of the warranty is less than the estimated non-warranty repair costs, then this is a smart buy.
Demo. No one would ever buy a house without stepping foot in it. Likewise, no one should ever buy a laser without trying it out first. Make it a requirement during the buying process to see a demonstration of the equipment and take advantage of the opportunity to try it out in your own professional environment. Because a cosmetic laser is a large investment, it is critical to make sure the equipment is the right fit for your needs. Following is a list of things to keep in mind when testing out the equipment.
Leading cosmetic laser manufacturers are known for their customer-friendly demo programs. When shopping for a new laser, always ask about the options that are available for working with the equipment before making a final purchase.
Cosmetic laser training. Contrary to popular belief, esthetic professionals do not need to have a medical background to become a cosmetic laser specialist in most states. In the United States, each state creates its own guidelines to enter the profession. Due to the growth of the industry, many states are now adding legislation requiring that esthetic professionals complete a certain number of hours of cosmetic laser education in the classroom and clinical setting.
Whether you are self-employed or a team member at an esthetic facility, client safety is the most important part of providing laser treatments. Due to the sheer power of a cosmetic laser, a technician can burn or scar someone if they have not received proper training from a state-recognized school. Most laser manufacturers will include a half- to full-day training; however, this is not nearly enough time to master using laser equipment effectively. When considering attending a cosmetic laser school, be sure to ask these important questions before attending.
Buyer beware. Laser companies will provide clinical studies and testimonials from current owners of their lasers; be sure to spot check the studies to ensure that no one who is on the payroll of the laser company is involved in the studies. One size does not fit all&#;no laser on the market can perform every treatment perfectly, but some are better than others at certain procedures. No respected clinical studies have shown that lasers can treat blond hair effectively, so be wary if someone tells you their laser can. Cosmetic lasers are dangerous if not handled properly. If someone tells you that their laser could never hurt anyone, then walk away. Buy logically, not emotionally, and take a step back when confronted with bargains. There will always be deals, so think through your purchase before making any decisions.
A SMOOTH TRANSITION
The world of laser procedures is a fun and financially rewarding one. By asking the right questions, researching the various types of cosmetic laser equipment and learning how to operate them safely, the transition into providing high-tech laser services will be smooth and easy.
Louis Silberman is president of National Laser Institute, a leading school specializing in advanced cosmetic laser and medical aesthetics training for beauty professionals. As an expert in laser aesthetics education, a medical spa owner and nationally recognized author, marketing speaker and business consultant, Silberman has been a driving force behind the organization of laser safety for consumers.
For more information, call 1-800-982- or simply fill out the form on the right.
Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners&#; links. This content is created independently from TIME&#;s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
At-home laser hair removal devices are suitable alternatives to in-office treatments for people looking for an easier, more cost-effective, and efficient way to prevent hair growth. That said, there are a number of devices on the market that target a variety of problem areas whether that&#;s the face, armpits, or chest and only require a few treatments to sustain long-lasting results. To help ease the process, I&#;ve rounded up the best at-home laser hair removal devices across a variety of brands and price points that&#;ll provide professional-grade results from the comfort of your own home.
Generally, at-home laser hair removal devices can be beneficial on most skin tones; it&#;s the hair pigment that makes a difference. Sensica&#;s mini laser removal device uses Reactive Pulse Light (RPL), which is IPL used in conjunction with sensors. RPL emits multiple wavelengths to large areas like the back, legs, and armpits while sensing breaks in the skin for added safety. There are two settings to choose from, stamp or gliding, which means single or continuous flashes based on preference and skin sensitivity.
The Sensica Sensilight Mini 300K is suitable for a variety of skin tones and uses RPL technology to disable hair regrowth from the source.
Get it here: Sensica Sensilight Mini 300K
buy on jovs
amazon
$359.99
$299.99
Whether you&#;re looking to remove hair on your face, arms, legs, or bikini area, this at-home laser can get the job done. This device uses Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT)&#;an advancement in IPL technology&#;which emits higher intensity light to speed up the hair removal process. Choose from one of six energy levels and function modes while seamlessly navigating with a 330 degree rotating head to get into those hard to reach spots. Your skin will be left with a cool protective layer, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
The JOVS Venus Pro II can be used over the entire body to remove hair and rejuvenate skin with its OPL technology and lightweight design.
Get it here: JOVS Venus Pro II
Braun
$429.99
$349.99
amazon
$429.99
Light hair is generally harder to target with laser hair removal devices, however, the Braun Silk Expert Pro5 may be able to help. It targets melanin in the hair follicle, which disrupts the pattern of regrowth. Over time, this can reduce hair growth. The built-in sensor adapts to your skin tone and finds the perfect setting (three modes) to help you achieve fast results without going overboard on your skin.
The Braun Silk Expert Pro5 IPL Hair Removal System glides along the skin and comes equipped with four caps suited for body parts.
Get it here: Braun Silk Expert Pro5 IPL Hair Removal System
When it comes to shaving your armpits or the bikini area, you want a device that easily gets into those small spaces. Ulike&#;s thin, sleek device uses IPL technology, a built-in UV filter, and patented Sapphire-Ice Cooling Technology, to provide painless and effective results. With unlimited flashes, this device can last for years and reach a speed of one flash every 0.7 seconds.
The Ulike Air 3 can easily reach those small areas where hair removal can be more difficult, and provides results in less than four weeks.
Get it here: Ulike Air 3
Walmart
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$149.00
At-home laser hair removal devices can be expensive, however, there are some more budget-friendly options like this handset from HappySkinCo. At less than $150, this device can provide up to 20-years of effortless hair removal with its IPL laser and auto, manual, and glide modes. Use it all over the body (but not near the eyes) to achieve a smooth, hairless finish in three to four weeks.
The HappySkinCo Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset is a budget-friendly option with its long shelf life and small ergonomic design.
Get it here: HappySkinCo Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset
Current body
$485.00
amazon
$390.00
You&#;ve probably heard of FOREO before, but did you know they actually have a best-selling laser hair removal device? The Peach 2 uses ultra-fast and powerful flashes to treat areas all over the body from armpits to legs. While using the device, it simultaneously blows cool air onto the skin to keep you comfortable while the T-Sonic massage dilates pores for better accuracy and precision.
The FOREO Peach 2 uses IPL technology and five different intensities to target full body hair removal with visible results in only two weeks.
Get it here: FOREO Peach 2
Just because you travel doesn&#;t mean you have to sacrifice your hair removal routine. This palm-sized device uses IPL to target hairs at the root and stop growth. Whether you&#;re interested in the armpits, legs, arms, or bikini area, the Lumi device has you covered. It can last up to 30 years and is great to keep in your dopp kit or toiletry bag for your next trip.
The RoseSkinCo. Lumi is a handheld device that works on any part of the body below the cheeks and its small size is ideal for travel.
Get it here: RoseSkinCo. Lumi
Laser hair removal can sound intimidating for people who have never done it before, however, The Flasher 2.0 is extremely user friendly. Designed with PrecisionPulse&#; IPL, this device provides noticeable results in just three weeks. Choose from 10-minute treatments or large treatment mode for more spacious areas. Plus, its digital LED display makes it easy to navigate so you&#;re not lost when figuring out the settings. The only downside? The $9 monthly membership to get a treatment plan that tells you exactly how often to use, and the best settings for your skin and hair color. (You can use the device without the membership, but you won&#;t know the precise settings.)
The Nood The Flasher 2.0 is a user-friendly device with tech-savvy components that can make hair removal easier for visible results everywhere that hair grows.
Get it here: Nood The Flasher 2.0
Brookstone
$449.00
amazon
$459.00
If you&#;re looking to remove hair from large areas of your body such as your chest, back, or legs, then you&#;ll want a device that&#;ll attack it head on. Designed for all skin tones, this device uses IPL and radio frequency (RF) to hinder hair growth and provide long lasting results.
The iluminage TOUCH Permanent Hair Reduction System can be used on large areas and is suitable for a wide variety of skin tones and hair colors.
Get it here: iluminage TOUCH Permanent Hair Reduction System
amazon
$299.00
Facial hair can be a bother for many people, but this at-home laser hair removal device is the way to go. With painless IPL, the Flash&Go Express can be used on the face, legs, underarms, and bikini area, and leaves skin smooth.
The Silk&#;n Flash&Go Express is suitable for the face with its small surface and continuous pulses that make it easy to get finished in minutes.
Get it here: Silk&#;n Flash&Go Express
There are a plethora of at-home laser hair removal devices designed to be used on the face, the entire body, or both. I considered the following when looking for the best picks.
I chose devices with different levels of intensity that could be used on a variety of skin tones and skin types. I took into account how not everyone can tolerate the same settings, so having choices took precedence.
Laser hair removal devices can be expensive, however, I tried to find a number of options priced at different points of the spectrum.
I looked at customer reviews to get a sense for what people had to say about each of the devices from how well it worked, whether it was painful, and how long it took to notice visible results with consistent use.
The price of at-home laser hair removal devices can vary greatly depending on the brand and type. The standard price range is between $150 to $500+ with some options being higher or lower under special circumstances. For many people, at-home laser hair removal is a more affordable alternative to in-office treatments, however, they can still be an investment.
Laser hair removal devices are generally equipped with different settings and intensities. Be sure the device you choose has a number of options to choose from and guidelines on how to know which is best for you.
&#;Dark-skinned or tan patients, however, should only have laser treatment with a long wavelength (e.g., nm), since this will not compete with their background skin color,&#; says Daniel P. Friedmann, MD, FAAD, dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Those with darker skin tones are at more risk of burns or even blisters, which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
In general, a majority of at-home laser hair removal devices are best-suited for lighter skin tones with darker hair, however, this varies based on the type of laser and brand. According to Kiran Mian, DO, FAAD, medical and aesthetic dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York, New York, laser hair removal is safest for those skin types that burn easily and rarely tan compared to those that only tan.
A majority of at-home laser hair removal devices use two different types of lasers: Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and diode. IPL devices use light to damage the follicle at the root to slow hair growth. Diode lasers use a single wavelength to heat and scorch the lining of the hair.
At-home laser hair removal is a great option for those looking for an alternative from more traditional hair removal methods such as shaving and waxing. &#;At-home laser hair removal can be preferred by some people because it can be done in the comfort of their own home, however at-home laser hair removal does not deliver the best and most long-term results as in-office treatments do,&#; says Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York, New York. Since at-home lasers have less intensity, it takes longer to see results. However, depending on the laser you choose, an extended length of consistent sessions can create great results.
&#;Typically, these treatments are performed two to three times a week in each targeted area and work by sending hairs into a resting phase, suppressing hair growth,&#; says Dr. Friedmann.
Most at-home devices use diode lasers or IPL to destroy hair follicles. &#;With IPL, the light damages the follicle at the root,&#; says Dr. Engelman, &#;while with diode lasers, there is a single wavelength that is used to heat and scorch the lining of the hair.&#; While both types of lasers are effective for at-home treatments, diode lasers more closely mimic in-office treatments, and can be used on a wider range of skin tones.
At-home laser hair removal devices are generally safe, however, it&#;s important to do research, use caution, and read the directions specific to your device to avoid skin irritation and damage since some of these devices are not regulated or FDA-cleared. &#;I advise doing a patch test on a small part of your skin and waiting a few minutes to ensure your skin will not react negatively,&#; says Dr. Engelman. &#;Other tips for a safe and effective at-home treatment include beginning with clean skin, avoiding shaving before treatments, taking your time and avoiding areas such as the eyes, moles, tattoos, and any types of skin lesions.&#;
There isn&#;t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question because a device that&#;s effective for one person may not be right for another. That said, IPL laser treatments are generally effective with consistent use in the right areas. It might take a few weeks and sometimes even months to notice visible changes, however, patience is key with at-home removal.
Dr. Friedmann says in-office devices will always be superior since they can achieve true hair root destruction and permanent hair reduction, however, at-home devices can still be a good alternative for those patients refusing in-office treatment, or better yet, complementary treatment to in-office procedures.
Similar to the question above, there isn&#;t a single machine that is most reliable. The results you get from at-home laser hair removal devices depend on how consistent you are with the treatments. Generally, the most reliable devices have different intensities and levels to choose from so you can find settings that work for your skin and hair type.
Overall, laser hair removal machines are worth it if you have realistic expectations. &#;At-home laser hair removal machines can be useful in a pinch and cost effective, but ultimately will not be able to deliver the same long term results as an in office laser,&#; says Dr. Engelman. That said, more devices are now available that even mimic in-office technology. With the right research and investment, at-home hair removal devices can produce promising results, it just may take a bit more time.
One is not better than the other, but they have their pros and cons. First off, IPL and laser hair removal both use light to heat hair follicles and prevent regrowth, however IPL requires more treatments and can often be less effective. Additionally, IPL targets the pigment in hair, so it isn&#;t a great option for people with darker skin or people with blonde, gray, or red hair. &#;The best candidates for IPL are people with relatively light skin and dark hair. And laser hair removal is typically a better option for most people and delivers longer lasting results,&#; says Dr. Engelman.
According to Dr. Engelman, at-home laser hair removal is generally safe, but it&#;s crucial to use caution and follow directions exactly as instructed. &#;It&#;s important to note that those with darker skin have a higher risk of burning and irritation, and are better off going for in-office treatments so those extra layers of caution can be taken by a professional,&#; she adds.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of laser hair remover for sale. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.