Complete list of necessary equipment for your beauty salon

Thinking about how not to spend extra money on unnecessary equipment? Wondering how to make sure you don’t forget the essentials? 

Dive into this guide to discover the must-have equipment for your beauty salon. This article makes it easy to equip your space effectively, ensuring you have exactly what you need.

Reception and general equipment for a beauty salon

The equipment needs of a salon can vary greatly depending on the specific services offered. A full-service salon catering to hair, nails, and aesthetics will require a comprehensive set of tools, while a dedicated brow bar might focus on a more streamlined selection. However, there's a core set of equipment for a beauty salon that forms the backbone of any successful place — the things that keep the doors open and the clients comfortable. 

Let's dive into this essential beauty salon equipment list, the foundation upon which you can build your dream salon!

Reception area

• Reception desk. Choose a desk that reflects your salon's style, be it sleek and modern or warm and inviting. Consider features like a glass top for a more open feel, built-in storage for appointment books and client records, and a comfortable chair for the receptionist.
• Seating. Invest in comfortable chairs or a small sofa for clients waiting for their appointments. Consider adding a coffee table with magazines or brochures for entertainment.
• Point-of-sale system (POS System). A POS system allows you to manage appointments, take payments, track inventory, and generate reports. Choose a user-friendly system that integrates with your salon management software (if applicable).
• Client intake forms. Have paper or digital forms for clients to fill out with contact information, service preferences, and any medical history relevant to treatments.

General salon equipment

Lighting

• Task lighting. Adjustable task lighting at stations is crucial for stylists and nail technicians to perform detailed work comfortably. Consider options like swing-arm lamps or track lighting.
• Ambient lighting. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with ambient lighting throughout the salon. Opt for dimmers to adjust the lighting based on the time of day and desired mood.

Ventilation

• Hoods. Proper ventilation is essential, especially for nail services that generate dust from filing. Invest in vented nail dust collectors to remove dust particles from the air, ensuring a healthy environment for clients and staff.
• General ventilation. Maintaining good air circulation throughout the salon is crucial for comfort and to remove any chemical fumes from hair color treatments. Consider installing ceiling fans or an air filtration system.

Staff needs

• Salon uniforms. Project a professional image with stylish and comfortable uniforms for your staff. Consider different options for stylists, nail technicians, and receptionists.
• Salon carts. Mobile carts with shelves and drawers allow stylists to keep frequently used tools and products readily accessible throughout the day.
• Sterilizers. Maintaining a hygienic environment is paramount. Invest in a sterilizer large enough to accommodate combs, brushes, and metal tools used during services.
• Break room essentials. Provide a designated break room for your staff with a comfortable seating area, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

Pro tip

• Invest in a sound system. Play calming music to create a relaxing atmosphere for your clients.
• Safety first. Have fire extinguishers and a first-aid kit readily accessible in case of emergencies.
• Storage solutions. Utilize wall shelves, cabinets, or mobile carts to keep towels, supplies, and products organized and readily accessible.
• Embrace technology. Consider contactless payment options and online appointment scheduling for a modern and convenient client experience.

By equipping your salon with this essential  equipment for a beauty salon, you'll create a welcoming and functional environment that caters to both client needs and staff comfort.

 Essential hair salon equipment list

Hair care is a cornerstone of the beauty industry. It's no surprise that hair salons are some of the most common beauty establishments, with some even specializing solely in hair care — to ensure your salon thrives, you totally need this detailed hair salon equipment list.

Shampoo bowls & faucets

• Bowl material. Look for durable, easy-to-clean materials like ceramic or acrylic. Consider ergonomic designs that cradle the client's neck for comfort.
• Sprayer faucets. Opt for handheld or pull-out sprayers for easy rinsing and improved control during shampooing.
• Neck rests. Adjustable neck rests provide additional comfort for clients, especially during long washes.

Styling stations

• Hydraulic chairs. Hydraulic chairs with adjustable heights are essential for stylists of different heights to maintain proper posture and avoid back strain.
• Footrests. Built-in footrests enhance client comfort during extended styling sessions.
• Storage compartments. Consider stations with built-in drawers or cabinets for storing frequently used tools and products, reducing clutter and maximizing workspace.
• Blow dryer holders. Wall-mounted or station-mounted blow-dryer holders keep them organized and readily accessible.

Hair dryers

• Wattage. Higher wattage dryers (typically 1800 watts or more) offer faster drying times, ideal for thick or long hair.
• Heat & speed settings. Multiple heat and speed settings allow stylists to customize drying for different hair types and desired results.
• Ionic technology. Ionic dryers reduce frizz by emitting negative ions that neutralize positive ions in the hair.
• Diffusers. Diffusers help distribute airflow evenly, making them perfect for drying curly hair without disrupting the natural curl pattern.
• Concentrator nozzles. Concentrator nozzles focus airflow for precise drying and styling.

Heat styling tools

• Flat Irons
• Plate Material. Ceramic or tourmaline plates distribute heat evenly, minimizing hot spots that can damage hair.
• Plate Size. Wider plates are ideal for straightening long or thick hair, while narrower plates work well for shorter hair or creating flips and curls.
• Adjustable temperature. Look for flat irons with adjustable temperature settings to suit different hair types and styling needs.
• Curling irons & wands
• Barrel size. Larger barrels create loose waves, while smaller barrels create tighter curls. Consider a range of sizes for styling versatility.
• Barrel material. Ceramic or tourmaline barrels provide even heat distribution and minimize hot spots.
• Interchangeable attachments. Some curling irons offer interchangeable barrels for creating different curl styles with one tool.

Hair clippers & trimmers

• Clipper types. Choose clippers with different blade sizes, depending on your service offerings.
• Standard clippers. Ideal for basic haircuts and fades.
• Detail clippers. Offer precision for trimming around the ears, necklines, and facial hair.
• Guards. A variety of guards allows for precise cutting lengths.
• Corded vs. cordless. Corded clippers offer consistent power, while cordless clippers provide greater maneuverability.

Additional hair care equipment

• Salon trolleys. Invest in sturdy, mobile trolleys with multiple tiers to hold styling tools, products, and supplies within easy reach of the stylist.
• Combs & brushes. Stock a variety of combs and brushes for different styling needs.
• Combs. Wide-tooth combs for detangling, teasing combs for adding volume, and styling combs for sectioning and shaping.
• Brushes. Round brushes for creating volume and curls, paddle brushes for smoothing and straightening, vent brushes for faster drying.
• Scissors & shears. Invest in high-quality, well-maintained shears for precise cutting. Consider specialized shears for specific cutting techniques like thinning or texturizing.
• Sterilizers. Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Opt for a sterilizer large enough to accommodate combs, brushes, and metal tools.

Pro tip

• Conduct research on popular brands and models to find equipment that balances features, quality, and budget.
• Consider energy-efficient options for dryers and other electrical equipment to save on long-term running costs.
• Invest in tool organizers and heat-resistant mats to keep your styling station tidy and protect surfaces.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of equipment for a beauty salon, and specific equipment choices will depend on your salon's focus and clientele. 

Nail salon equipment list

Hair care may reign supreme, but there's another popular contender in the beauty salon world — nails! With intricate designs, vibrant colors, and the power to transform hands, nail care has become a sought-after service. So, let's move to required equipment for a nail salon.

Manicure & pedicure stations

• Manicure tables. Look for tables with a smooth, easy-to-clean surface and ample space for tools, polishes, and a comfortable hand rest for clients. Consider built-in storage or drawers for easy organization.
• Pedicure chairs. Invest in comfortable, adjustable pedicure chairs with built-in footrests and soaking basins. Opt for chairs with massage features for a truly pampering experience.
• Tip. Ensure proper ventilation at both manicure and pedicure stations using dust extractors to minimize dust inhalation from filing.

Nail care tools

• Nail clippers & trimmers. High-quality nail clippers and cuticle trimmers in various sizes are essential for precise nail shaping and maintenance. Consider spring-loaded clippers for smoother cutting.
• Nail files & buffers. Stock a variety of nail files with different grits (coarse, medium, fine) for shaping and smoothing natural nails. Opt for disposable emery boards for hygiene or reusable files that can be sanitized. Buffers with varying grits help achieve a high shine.
• Cuticle pushers & nippers. Cuticle pushers gently push back cuticles, while cuticle nippers remove hangnails with precision. Opt for stainless steel tools for durability and easy sterilization.
• Orangewood sticks. These versatile tools help clean under nails, remove gel polish residue, and push back cuticles gently.

Nail art supplies (optional)

• Polish removers. Acetone-based removers work quickly, while non-acetone removers are gentler on nails. Offer both options to cater to different client preferences.
• Base coats & top coats. Base coats protect nails and create a smooth canvas for polish application. Top coats seal the polish for a long-lasting, chip-resistant finish.
• Nail polish. A diverse collection of colors is key! Consider offering a variety of finishes like creme, shimmer, metallic, and matte. Don't forget essentials like clear polish and French manicure shades.
• Nail art tools (optional). For intricate nail art designs, consider offering tools like dotting tools, striping tape, stamping plates, and nail art brushes.

Additional nail care equipment

• Nail lamps. LED or UV lamps are essential for curing gel polish. Consider the curing time and wattage when choosing a lamp.
• Disposables. Cotton balls, disposable nail files, toe separators, and non-woven wipes are essential for hygiene and client comfort.
• Brushes & tools. Nail polish brushes should be high-quality with flexible bristles for smooth application. Invest in separate brushes for base coat, top coat, and detail work.

By equipping your salon with these tools and keeping client comfort and hygiene in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating a thriving nail care place!

Where can I buy the best wholesale beauty supply?

Equipping your salon with the right tools is the first crucial step in creating a successful haven for beauty. But remember, this is just the beginning. You'll need a constant flow of additional resources— the lifeblood of any beauty business.

Your inventory will require regular replenishment of professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, styling products, nail polishes, and other cosmetics used during client services. Partnering with reliable and reputable suppliers who offer high-quality products and equipment is crucial. Here Suplery comes in!

Suplery revolutionizes the way beauty businesses handle the supply chain, offering a place that simplifies wholesale ordering of professional products and cosmetics:

• Direct ordering: say goodbye to the hassle of emails, faxes, and endless spreadsheets. Suplery’s intuitive interface allows you to order directly from suppliers and manufacturers, streamlining your procurement process.
• Inventory management: with Suplery, managing your inventory becomes effortless. Our platform automatically generates orders based on your previous purchases, ensuring you never run out of your best-selling products.
• Supplier discovery: find and connect with top suppliers on your own terms. Suplery gives you the freedom to explore and establish direct communication with brands, ensuring you get exactly what your business needs.
• Collaborative ordering: enhance your team’s efficiency by adding employees to your account and creating shared order carts. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is on the same page, making ordering a breeze.
• Speedy setup and support: we know time is of the essence. That's why Suplery is designed for quick setup, and our support team is always ready to assist, making your transition to our platform smooth and straightforward.

It's not just a marketplace; it's a comprehensive solution designed to make your wholesale buying process as efficient and enjoyable as possible. With Suplery, experience the magic of streamlined operations, leaving you more time to focus on what truly matters—growing your business and delighting your customers.

Conclusion

We've covered the essential equipment that forms the foundation of any successful beauty salon. This core list equips you to offer basic hair care and nail services, while providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for your clients. Remember, this is just the starting point! As your salon grows and expands its service menu, you can invest in specialized equipment for additional services like waxing, facials, or massage therapy.

The beauty industry thrives on innovation, so don't hesitate to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. Here at Suplery, we're passionate about helping beauty businesses flourish. If you'd like a more specific equipment list tailored to a particular salon specialization, like a dedicated spa or a brow bar, feel free to reach out!  

I am always happy to provide insights and recommendations to help you navigate the exciting world of salon equipment. Let's work together to turn your beauty vision into a reality!

FAQ

What is beauty salon equipment?

Beauty salon equipment encompasses all the tools necessary for salon services. Examples include styling chairs, hair dryers, shampoo stations, and manicure tables. Find more details in our article.

What do I need to run my own beauty salon?

To operate a beauty salon, you need essential equipment such as styling chairs and hair dryers, a suitable location, trained professionals, and a well-thought-out business strategy to attract and retain clients. Read the full list in our article.