Starting a new hair salon and beauty business can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right equipment and supplies is just one part of the equation, but it’s an essential one. This article will focus on what types of equipment and products salon owners will need to get started.
1. Reception Area Essentials
Before getting into the details of cutting station supplies, let’s talk about first impressions. A salon’s reception area is the first thing new clients see when they walk in the door, so it needs to set a proper tone. Create a warm, welcoming space with stylish lighting, comfortable seating, adequate tables, and a reception desk for guests to check in. Most salons also incorporate magazine racks and retail product displays into their waiting areas.
2. Salon Furniture
Once guests get past the reception area, the type of furniture they see becomes more specialized. Each station will need a few different types of furniture, including:
- A salon styling chair.
- A stylist cutting stool.
- A chair mat.
- Mirrors.
- Utility carts and trolleys.
- Tool and appliance holders.
3. Shampoo Station Furniture
Shampoo stations are a little different from regular styling stations. They need specific kinds of furniture to keep them clean, hygienic, and efficient. Each station should be outfitted with:
- A shampoo bowl.
- A shampoo chair.
- Cabinets and storage.
- A hair trap.
- Towels.
4. Electric Equipment
Modern salons need modern electrical equipment. Hood dryers are essential for drying hair and helping coloring products process and develop. Ring lights are a type of professional photography equipment that can help a salon take high-quality before-and-after photos for social media. Washers and dryers are also essential for handling dirty towels, capes, and aprons without expensive trips to the laundromat.
5. Salon Tools and Supplies
Every styling station will need a separate set of tools and supplies. Purchasing them from a reputable source like prostylingtools.com is the best way to obtain quality supplies at affordable prices. Each stylist will need:
- Shears
- Hair clippers
- A blow dryer
- Curling irons
- A flat iron
- Sectioning clips
- Combs and brushes
- Spray bottles
- Capes
- Aprons
- Latex gloves
- Hand mirrors
- Disinfectant for tools
- A duster brush
- Hair and chemical products
6. Business Management Tools
A salon is a business, so remember that running it will also require a number of more generalized management tools. These should include a laptop or desktop computer, a point-of-sale system, Wi-Fi, and office supplies. Finally, make sure to stock up on the cleaning supplies required to keep the salon neat, clean, and looking its best for guests and marketing photos.
Where to Start
Obtaining everything required to start a salon can be expensive. Some large equipment can be purchased used, which helps cut back on costs, but salon owners will still need a reliable source of hair-care products, tools, and supplies. The best way to ensure nothing is forgotten is to print out the list above and price each item, including the information in the salon’s business plan.
Be sure to consider the fact that while some of the equipment and supplies on this list only need to be purchased once, others must be restocked constantly. Put enough aside in the salon’s budget to cover consumables like shampoo, conditioner, coloring, and other daily-use items to avoid unexpected expenses after the salon gets off the ground.