If you are opening a new beauty school or updating your current space, choosing the right equipment is a big decision. New equipment can be tailored to your school's style, usually comes with a longer warranty, and is often more sanitary, giving students a fresh start. However, new items can be expensive. Used or refurbished cosmetology school equipment is a good option for schools with tighter budgets. It helps lower upfront costs and lets you test out different brands or products. Just remember, used items might be older, have fewer features, and come with shorter warranties.
The cosmetology industry is very competitive, so schools need to give students up-to-date training with modern equipment. One common question is whether to buy new or refurbished equipment. Here are seven things to think about when making this choice for your school.
1. Budget and Initial Investment
When schools need to set up or update a classroom or lab, budget often drives quick decisions. Buying used or refurbished equipment is a good way to save money. While new technology can be costly, refurbished models offer a more affordable alternative.
Price is just one factor to consider. Think about the total cost of owning the equipment, not just the purchase price. More expensive items may last longer, have better warranties, and need fewer repairs. Weigh short-term savings against long-term reliability.
2. Equipment Lifespan
Modern equipment usually lasts longer than older models. For example, new styling chairs, shampoo basins, dryers, and workstations are built to last and are easier to keep clean in a busy school setting.
The term refurbished does not always imply that the item will see long life. Life expectancy post-refurbishment will depend on a number of factors, including the standard of work carried out and the level of use an item has already received. This is an important consideration when looking at refurbished or second-hand items.
3. Warranty and Support
Students often notice warranty coverage when they buy equipment for their own salons after graduation. New school equipment usually comes with a manufacturer warranty, which protects against mechanical problems and defects. Warranty terms can vary.
Beware: Some refurbished products may not come with a warranty. If something breaks soon after purchase and repair costs erode savings, ask what type of warranty is offered and whether spare parts are readily available.
4. Student Learning Experience
At schools, students practice on mannequin heads for all the beauty services they learn.
Used equipment works for students as long as it lasts, but older models may not teach them the tools or technology used in today’s salons. Newer equipment is usually better for training, since outdated items can put students at a disadvantage.
5. Safety and Compliance
All training schools must follow health and safety rules for students and instructors. New equipment is installed to meet the latest international health and safety standards.
If a school is purchasing a refurbished item of heavy plant and machinery, it is important to carry out an in-depth check of the hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and general structure of the item to ensure it is safe and functioning correctly. Schools should also check with the local highway authority that the original item of heavy plant and machinery was not made illegal by road safety legislation or licensing requirements.
6. Consistency in Classroom Design
When setting up a cosmetology training room, most schools have one main space where students learn and practice. Ideally, each student should have the same type of workstation. Buying all new equipment makes this easier, since you do not have to match different styles or types.
Refurbished equipment can sometimes result in a mix of different styles, colors, and features in the classroom. Even if everything works, it might not look as nice or coordinated.
7. Long-Term Maintenance Costs
Maintenance is easy to overlook. Older or refurbished equipment may need more repairs or spare parts.
Most schools find that new equipment needs little maintenance for the first few years. This lets schools focus on teaching instead of repairs. The long-term reliability makes new equipment a good investment.
The success of a cosmetology school, its teachers, and students depends a lot on the equipment used. To help schools choose the right equipment for their programs, we have made a list of required training items for each type of cosmetology program.
