Building a dream salon can be a fun adventure for new stylists looking to start their own business — but where do you start?
Whether you’re starting a hair, nail, or beauty salon, knowing the equipment you need — and where to buy it — is the first step to success.
In this blog, we’ll break down the essential equipment every salon needs.
Plus, we’ll talk through where to purchase your salon equipment, whether renting is a viable option, and whether to buy new or used salon equipment.
Looking for specific info? Feel free to jump ahead! 👇
What Equipment Do You Need for a Hair, Nail, or Beauty Salon?
From hair styling to nail care services and overall beauty treatments, having the right equipment is crucial for delivering high-quality services your clients will love.
No matter the type of salon you’re building, we have you covered!
Equipment You Need for a Hair Salon
What equipment do you need for each station?
Here’s the shortlist of must-have equipment for each station in your hair salon.
- Styling Chairs: Comfortable and height-adjustable chairs for both client and stylist.
- Styling Stations: These stations typically include mirrors, drawers, and shelves for storing styling tools and products.
- Hair Styling Tools: Essential equipment includes hairdryers, curling irons, flat irons, and diffusers.
- Cutting Tools: Cutting tools includes hair shears, clippers, trimmers, and razors for precise and accurate haircuts.
- Hair Wash Stations: Shampoo chairs or basins along with well-functioning sinks.
- Hair Color Equipment: Including coloring brushes, bowls, caps, foils, and color applicator bottles.
- Salon Trolleys/Carts: These are mobile storage units that allow easy access to salon essentials like towels, capes, and styling products.
Where do you buy salon equipment?
When it comes to buying salon equipment, you’ll have the option of purchasing from specialized salon suppliers, online retail stores, or local beauty supply stores.
Our advice? Shop around. Explore local suppliers if you have them in your area. And take the time to research online.
This will ensure you find the salon equipment that fits your needs and budget.
Online Salon Equipment Stores:
Can you rent hair salon equipment?
While renting hair salon equipment is an option — like through Buy Rite Salon Equipment, for example — it can be expensive and may not provide the customization you need to build a salon’s identity.
Should you buy new or used hair salon equipment?
Buying new hair salon equipment ensures quality and reliability.
But… If you are on a tighter budget, purchasing used equipment from quality sources can be a cost-effective alternative.
Just be sure the equipment is in good working condition to avoid needing repairs or replacements in the future.
Equipment You Need for a Nail Salon
What equipment do you need for each nail station?
To get your nail salon up and running, you’ll need the following pieces of equipment.
- Manicure Stations: Include comfortable chairs or nail desks for clients and nail technicians.
- Nail Care Tools: Nail clippers, cuticle pushers, nippers, files, and buffers.
- UV/LED Nail Lamps: Lamps are required for curing gel nails and ensuring long-lasting manicures.
- Nail Polish Racks: Nail polish racks will help you organize an extensive nail polish collection.
- Pedicure Chairs: Designed with built-in foot baths and leg rests to provide maximum comfort during pedicure sessions.
- Pedicure Tools: Including foot scrubs, pumice stones, and callus removers for effective foot care.
- Manicure & Pedicure Supplies: Such as cotton pads, towels, bowls, and disposables like gloves and masks for hygienic practices.
Where do you buy nail salon equipment?
Nail salon equipment can be purchased from specialized nail supply stores, online retailers, or local beauty wholesalers.
Some suppliers may even offer complete salon furniture packages suited specifically for nail salons.
Online Nail Salon Equipment Stores:
Can you rent nail salon equipment?
Renting nail salon equipment may be worthwhile for temporary setups or experimental projects.
However, if you plan on establishing a salon for the long term, most nail pros recommend purchasing the necessary equipment.
Should you buy new or used nail salon equipment?
When it comes to nail salon equipment, purchasing new supplies is typically recommended — due to hygiene concerns.
Of course, some items, such as chairs or desks, can be bought used as long as they are in good condition and meet sanitation standards.
Equipment You Need for Beauty Salons & Spas
A beauty salon or spa requires a range of equipment to offer clients various beauty treatments.
Here’s a short list of beauty salon must-haves.
- Facial Beds or Chairs: Comfortable beds or chairs suitable for facial treatments, waxing, and other beauty services.
- Mirrors and Lighting: Good-quality mirrors and proper lighting are essential for accurate treatments.
- Waxing Supplies: Including wax pots, spatulas, wax strips, and pre/post-waxing products.
- Facial Equipment: Steamers, magnifying lamps, and skincare machines needed for facials.
- Spa and Massage Beds: Professional beds for body treatments such as massages and body wraps.
- Sterilization Equipment: Autoclaves, UV lamp sterilizers, and chemical disinfectants for maintaining a clean and hygienic salon.
Where do you buy beauty salon equipment?
Beauty salon or spa equipment can be purchased from specialized beauty suppliers, online retailers, or local beauty supply stores.
Our advice? Consider suppliers that provide a wide range of equipment suitable for various beauty treatments, so you’re not shopping around multiple places for equipment.
Online Beauty Salon Equipment Stores:
Can you rent beauty salon or spa equipment?
Most beauty pros wouldn’t recommend renting beauty salon equipment, as it may limit your salon’s ability to offer consistent services.
It’s more common to make the investment and purchase equipment suitable for your salon’s specific requirements.
Should you buy new or used beauty salon equipment?
When it comes to beauty salon equipment, especially for treatments involving skin contact or possible contamination, most pros recommend purchasing new equipment.
But either way you go, be sure that any equipment is in good condition and can be properly cleaned and sterilized.
Conclusion: Hair, Nail, and Beauty Salon Equipment
Whether it’s a hair salon, nail salon, or beauty salon, the necessary tools ensure efficient service delivery and happy clients.
When shopping around, focus on quality and durability.
Remember, the right salon equipment can make all the difference when you’re just getting started, so take your time and find the equipment that fits your needs and your budget.
Are you a salon owner or hair stylist looking to grow your business? Schedulicity has you covered!
With appointment scheduling, marketing tools, and payment processing, you have everything you need to run your business — all in one place!
