How to Choose a Professional Hair Removal Machine: 7 Points for Success Explained by a Beauty Equipment Manufacturer
Hello. I am Daiki Nishida, Representative of JENIMO Co., Ltd.
We are a professional beauty equipment manufacturer that plans, sells, rents, and provides implementation support for professional hair removal machines, light-based beauty devices, and comprehensive beauty equipment.
On a daily basis, we receive many inquiries from those considering opening a salon or salon owners looking to replace their hair removal machines regarding model selection, costs, treatment methods, and post-implementation operations.
When choosing a professional hair removal machine, it is important to check not only the unit price but also the hair removal method, output performance, cooling performance, compatible menus, running costs, warranties, and post-implementation support.
No matter how high-performance a device is, if it does not match your salon's target audience, the menus you want to offer, or your operational structure, there is a possibility that you will not be able to utilize it fully after implementation.
In fact, among the consultations we receive, we often hear questions such as:
"Should I choose a machine with higher output?"
"I don't understand the difference between IPL and SHR methods."
"Besides the unit price, what other costs are involved?"
"Can it handle light facials in addition to hair removal?"
We receive many questions like these.
In this article, we will explain 7 points to check to avoid failure when considering the introduction or replacement of a professional hair removal machine, from the perspective of a beauty equipment manufacturer.
What you will learn in this article
Comparison points when choosing a professional hair removal machine
Differences between IPL and SHR methods
Points to check when verifying output performance
Why cooling performance is important
Running costs incurred after implementation
How to check warranty and repair systems
How to choose a model that suits your salon's business type
What is a professional hair removal machine?
A professional hair removal machine is a beauty device used in beauty salons, hair salons, and self-service hair removal salons that approaches unwanted hair by emitting light.
Depending on the device, the hair removal method, output performance, cooling performance, irradiation speed, and auxiliary functions vary.
There are not only machines specialized for hair removal but also multi-functional machines that support multiple beauty menus such as light facials.
When choosing a professional hair removal machine, it is important not to simply compare prices, but to clarify what kind of services you want to provide to what kind of customers.
7 points to avoid failure when choosing a professional hair removal machine
1. Choose a hair removal method that suits your salon
When comparing professional hair removal machines, first check the hair removal method they are equipped with.
Representative hair removal methods include the IPL method and the SHR method.
Comparison Item | IPL Method | SHR Method | Irradiation Method | Primarily single-shot irradiation | Primarily continuous irradiation | Main Features | Emits light that reacts to hair pigment | Emits relatively low energy continuously | Hair Types Best Suited For | Tends to be suitable for thick, dark hair | Tends to be easily adaptable to a wide range of hair types | Treatment Method | Carefully irradiates each area | Irradiates while sliding the handpiece | Treatment Speed | Varies by irradiation method | Easy to treat large areas
Neither the IPL method nor the SHR method is suitable for every salon.
For example, the necessary functions differ depending on whether you prioritize treatments for relatively thick and dark hair, such as men's beards or VIO areas, or if you want to handle a wide range of needs, such as full-body hair removal for women or fine hair.
If you want to handle a wide range of hair types and areas, machines equipped with both IPL and SHR methods are also an option.
The important thing is not to judge solely by the name of the method, but to check the following points:
What kind of hair types is it easily adaptable to?
Which areas is the treatment intended for?
Can single-shot and continuous irradiation be used selectively?
Is it easy to shorten treatment time?
Is it easy for staff to operate?
Choose a hair removal method that matches your salon's customer base and menu.
2. Check output performance and stability
When choosing a professional hair removal machine, output performance is one of the most important comparison criteria.
Machines with sufficient output performance can easily handle a wide range of hair types, from thick and dark hair to others, which leads to expanding the range of your treatment menu.
It is especially important to thoroughly check output performance if you are considering treatments for men's beards, VIO areas, or areas with dense hair.
When comparing machines, check the following items:
Output performance of the machine itself
Stability of output during continuous irradiation
Ability to handle thick and dark hair
Handling of vellus hair and fine hair
Ease of setting adjustments according to area and hair type
Proper use of single-shot and continuous irradiation
Irradiation speed
Balance with cooling performance
For professional hair removal machines, it is important not only to be able to produce high output instantaneously but also to maintain a stable state during treatment.
If the output becomes unstable during continuous irradiation, it may affect treatment time and operability.
Therefore, check not only the figures in the catalog but also whether it can be used stably during actual treatments.
If online demos or trial sessions are available, we recommend checking the actual irradiation speed, operability, and usage feel for each area.
3. Check cooling performance and comfort during treatment
For professional hair removal machines, cooling performance is just as important as output performance.
Machines with high cooling performance make it easier to suppress heat and irritation during irradiation, leading to the creation of an environment where customers can receive treatments comfortably.
In particular, for areas where high output is often used, such as men's beards or VIO, cooling performance determines the level of satisfaction during the treatment.
When comparing machines, check not only the displayed cooling temperature but also the following items.
Is the cooling stable even during continuous irradiation?
Does the entire irradiation surface cool evenly?
Can the cooling power be maintained even after long-term use?
Does it cool down immediately after starting irradiation?
Is the handpiece easy to hold and operate?
How to manage purified water or cooling water
Is the maintenance method easy to understand?
Even if the cooling temperature is displayed as low, the actual cooling state changes depending on usage time, room temperature, and the state of continuous irradiation.
During trial sessions or demonstrations, check the cooling performance not only immediately after irradiation but also after using it continuously for a certain period.
By choosing a machine with stable output and cooling performance, it becomes easier to handle a wide range of hair types and body areas.
4. Check for menus other than hair removal
Some professional hair removal machines are multi-functional, supporting not only hair removal but also beauty menus such as photo-facials.
By introducing a multi-functional machine, it becomes easier to propose menus not only to customers who want hair removal but also to those who want skin care.
Also, by guiding customers who have finished their hair removal course to photo-facials, it becomes easier to lead to continuous visits.
Especially for the following types of salons, the range of available menus is an important criterion for choosing a machine.
Individual salons
Home salons
Additional introduction to beauty salons
Facial salons
Beauty menus for osteopathic and acupuncture clinics
Salons that want to offer multiple menus with a single machine
When comparing machines that support light facials, check not only for the label "facial function included," but also the included filters and the treatment menus that can be performed.
Depending on the machine, you can change the wavelength of the emitted light by swapping filters.
When checking the available menus, be sure to verify the following points:
Are the filters included as standard?
Is an additional purchase required?
How many types of filters can be used?
Is it easy to swap the filters?
Can the machine be used for both hair removal and facials?
Are treatment methods provided for each menu?
Are case study photos and promotional materials provided?
Choosing a machine equipped with multiple functions makes it easier to expand your salon menu even in limited space.
5. Check running costs other than the unit price
When comparing the introduction costs of professional hair removal machines, do not judge based solely on the unit price.
After introduction, the following costs may be incurred:
Cost Item: What to check. Lamp replacement cost: How many shots before replacement is needed? Handpiece cost: Is it repair or replacement? Gel cost: Is it required during treatment? Purified water/Cooling water: Replacement frequency and usage amount. Repair cost: Fees after the warranty period ends. Shipping cost: Burden when shipping repairs or replacement machines. Regular inspection cost: Is it mandatory or optional? Shot billing: Is there a charge per shot? Filter cost: Is it included as standard or an additional purchase?
It is especially important to check the lamp's guaranteed shot count and replacement cost.
Even if the unit price is the same, the total cost over long-term use will vary depending on the lamp replacement cost and frequency.
Also, even if it says "500,000 shots," whether that is a guaranteed number of flashes or just a guideline for replacement varies by manufacturer.
Before introducing a machine, be sure to check the following details specifically.
How many shots is the lamp guaranteed for?
How much does a lamp replacement cost?
Do you replace the entire handpiece?
Can only the lamp part be replaced?
Is there a replacement handpiece available during the exchange period?
Who covers the shipping costs?
Is there a warranty after replacement?
It is easier to compare equipment if you calculate not just the unit price, but the total cost over about three to five years of use.
6. Check the warranty, repair, and replacement machine system
A professional hair removal machine is an important piece of equipment that supports your salon's revenue.
If the equipment becomes unusable, you will need to reschedule appointments, face a drop in revenue, and contact your customers.
Therefore, the warranty and repair system are points you should definitely check before introduction.
The items you should check are as follows:
Warranty period of the main unit
Warranty coverage for the handpiece
Parts treated as consumables
How to request repairs
Can repairs be done domestically?
Duration of repairs
Availability of a replacement machine during the repair period
Responsibility for shipping costs for replacement or repaired items
Repair costs after the warranty expires
Warranty period after repairs
What you should be careful about here is that the notation of "X-year warranty on the main unit" does not necessarily mean that all parts are covered by free repairs.
Lamps, handpieces, and similar items may be treated as consumables.
Before signing a contract, confirm which parts are covered by the warranty and which parts require paid replacement.
Also, it is important to know not just where the manufacturer is located, but where the inspection and repairs are actually performed.
If there is a repair center within the country, it tends to be easier to facilitate a response compared to equipment that needs to be sent overseas.
Furthermore, be sure to check whether a replacement machine can be provided during repairs.
If a replacement machine is available, it becomes easier to minimize the impact on treatment appointments.
7. Confirm the support content after introduction
When introducing beauty equipment for the first time, post-introduction support is just as important as the performance of the machine itself.
A professional hair removal machine is not something that allows for appropriate treatment immediately just by turning on the power.
Practitioners need to understand at least the following:
Basic operation of the equipment
Settings tailored to skin type and hair quality
Irradiation methods for different body parts
Proper use of single-shot versus continuous-shot modes
Precautions before and after treatment
Handling the handpiece
How to use filters
Management of purified water and cooling water
Daily maintenance
Response when trouble occurs
Depending on the manufacturer, some may provide a one-time training session upon delivery, while others offer a dedicated support desk for consultations even after installation.
Before installation, be sure to check the following points:
Is there operational training upon delivery?
Can training be taken online?
Are there operation videos or manuals available?
Is there a support desk available for consultations after installation?
Can questions be asked via LINE or phone?
Can additional training be provided when new staff members join?
Can you consult on menu design and pricing?
Is there support for customer acquisition and sales promotion?
Are case photos and counseling materials available?
Especially for those starting a business without prior experience, it is important to check not only if training is provided, but also who you can consult with and how, should any questions arise after installation.
By Salon Business Type | How to Choose a Professional Hair Removal Machine
Individual Salons / Home Salons
For individual or home salons, it is important to consider not only the number of functions but also the monthly fixed costs and whether the machine is easy to operate by one person.
If you are operating in a limited space, a tabletop model that is easy to install is also an option.
If the machine can handle both hair removal and light facial treatments, it will be easier to expand your menu even with just one unit.
For individual salons, prioritize the following items.
Unit size
Ease of operation
Monthly fixed costs
Lamp replacement costs
Available treatments other than hair removal
Post-installation support
Availability of replacement machines during repairs
Adding to a hair salon
For hair salons, the key is whether there are treatments that are easy to propose to existing customers.
Machines that can be easily combined with existing salon services, such as facial hair removal, nape, beard, and light facial treatments, in addition to full-body hair removal, are suitable.
Also, if multiple staff members will be using the machine, it is important that the operation method is easy to understand and that there is little variation in skill between staff.
When introducing a machine to a hair salon, check the following points.
Can it be installed in a space-saving manner?
Can it handle facial and nape hair removal?
Can it offer light facial treatments?
Is the operation screen easy to understand?
Are the training and manuals comprehensive?
Are there promotional materials available to offer to existing customers?
Self-Service Hair Removal Salons
For self-service hair removal salons, you must confirm whether the machine has a self-service mode designed for operation by the customers themselves.
Standard equipment intended for professional practitioners is not necessarily suitable for operation in a self-service salon.
The points you should check are as follows:
Is it equipped with a self-service mode?
Is the operation screen easy to understand?
Can output settings be restricted?
Is it designed to prevent operational errors?
Is it easy to support unmanned or low-staff operations?
Are operation instructions for customers provided?
Is there a communication system in place for when problems occur?
When opening a self-service hair removal salon, choose your equipment by considering not only its performance but also the overall operation of the store.
Replacing Hair Removal Machines
When replacing a hair removal machine, start by clarifying your dissatisfaction with the equipment you are currently using.
Common reasons for replacement include the following:
Wanting to increase output
Wanting to improve cooling performance
Wanting to shorten treatment time
I want to improve my ability to handle thick, dark hair
I want to handle a wide range of hair, including vellus hair
I want to increase my photo-facial menu options
I want to review lamp replacement costs
I want faster repair response times
I want to enhance post-installation support
By organizing your current challenges, it becomes easier to understand the performance and features required for your next machine.
Before replacing your machine, compare your current equipment with the one you are considering using the same criteria.
Checklist for comparing professional hair removal machines
Before installation, confirm the following items with the manufacturer.
□ Hair removal methods included, such as IPL and SHR
□ Hair types and treatment areas that can be handled
□ Output performance of the machine itself
□ Output stability during continuous irradiation
□ Cooling performance and stability during continuous use
□ Non-hair removal menus, such as photo-facials
□ Types of included filters
□ Additional purchase costs for filters
□ Guaranteed shot count for lamps
□ Lamp replacement costs
□ Handpiece replacement costs
□ Costs for consumables such as gel and purified water
□ Warranty coverage for the main unit and consumables
□ Domestic repair and inspection system
□ Availability of replacement machines during repairs
□ Content of operation training
□ Consultation desk after installation
□ Contract terms for purchase, rental, or leasing
□ Minimum contract period and cancellation terms
□ Total costs for 3 to 5 years after installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better for a professional hair removal machine to have higher output?
Output performance is one of the important items to consider when comparing professional hair removal machines.
In particular, if you are considering treatments for thick, dark hair, men's beards, or VIO areas, machines with sufficient output are viable options.
Check not only the maximum output but also the stability during continuous irradiation, cooling performance, and ease of setting adjustments for different hair types and areas.
Which is recommended, the IPL method or the SHR method?
It depends on your salon's clientele and the areas being treated.
The suitable irradiation method differs depending on whether you prioritize treatments for thick, dark hair or want to handle a wide range of areas, including full-body and vellus hair.
If you want to accommodate a wide range of customers, machines equipped with both IPL and SHR methods are also an option.
Do machines with higher output also have stronger stimulation?
The sensation during treatment varies depending not only on the output but also on cooling performance, irradiation method, pulse width, and more.
If a machine balances high output performance with cooling performance, it becomes easier to handle a wide range of hair types while considering comfort during treatment.
Since the actual sensation varies by machine, we recommend receiving a demo or trial before introduction.
Should I choose a tabletop model or a tower model?
Choose based on criteria such as installation space, functions, number of handpieces, and the menu you wish to offer.
For individual salons or additional installations in beauty salons, tabletop models tend to be easier to install.
If you prioritize operation by multiple staff members or multifunctionality, tower models are also an option.
Which is recommended, purchasing or renting?
If you have decided to use it for a long period, purchasing may be suitable.
On the other hand, renting makes it easier to keep initial costs down and is a method worth considering immediately after opening or when you want to try a new menu.
Compare not only the monthly fee but also the contract period, cancellation conditions, consumable costs, and repair costs.
Is there a problem with using second-hand professional hair removal machines?
While second-hand equipment can reduce introduction costs, it can sometimes be difficult to determine the usage history, remaining lamp shot count, warranty, and supply status of repair parts.
It is also necessary to confirm whether manufacturer support can be transferred and if there are any name change fees.
At how many shots should the hair removal machine lamp be replaced?
It depends on the machine and the handpiece.
Since the guaranteed shot count and the replacement guideline are not necessarily the same, check how many shots are guaranteed, whether only the lamp part can be replaced, or if the entire handpiece needs to be replaced.
What are the benefits of choosing a machine that supports photo facials?
The benefit is that you can increase your beauty menu in addition to hair removal.
It becomes easier to make proposals to customers who have finished their hair removal courses or existing customers who wish to have skin care, which may lead to repeat visits and an increase in average spending per customer.
Summary
When choosing a professional hair removal machine, it is important to comprehensively compare not only the unit price but also the following seven points.
Hair removal method suitable for the salon
Output performance and stability
Cooling performance and comfort during treatment
Supported treatment menus
Running costs after introduction
Warranty, repair, and replacement machine system
Support content after introduction
In particular, if you are considering treatments for a wide range of hair types and body areas, it is important to check both the output performance and cooling performance.
Also, if the machine supports not only hair removal but also photo-facials, it becomes easier to offer multiple menus with a single device.
Beauty equipment is not just about the purchase.
After clarifying what kind of menus you want to provide to what kind of customers, choose a machine that fits your salon's management policy.
If it is difficult to judge from the catalog alone, we recommend using online demos or trial sessions to check the actual operability, output, cooling performance, and treatment speed.
About JENIMO Co., Ltd.
JENIMO Co., Ltd. is a professional beauty equipment manufacturer that plans, sells, rents, and provides introduction support for professional hair removal machines, photo-beauty equipment, and comprehensive beauty equipment.
Starting with the "ESSENT Premium," a desktop composite beauty device that supports both hair removal and photo-facials, we propose beauty equipment tailored to the scale of your salon and the menus you wish to provide.
We provide support not only for model selection before introduction, but also for operation training upon delivery, treatment methods, menu design, and consultations regarding the equipment after introduction.
For those considering the introduction or replacement of professional hair removal machines
"I don't know which model is right for my salon."
"I want to consult on whether purchasing or renting is better."
"I want to introduce not only hair removal but also photo facials."
"I want to know the differences from the hair removal machine I am currently using."
If you have any such concerns, please feel free to consult with us even if you have not yet decided on a model.
We also accept online consultations and equipment explanations.
▼Click here for brochures and consultations regarding professional hair removal machines
【https://jenimo-official.com/】
▼Click here for details on ESSENT Premium
【https://essent-premium.com/lp2】
JENIMO Co., Ltd.
Manufacturer of professional hair removal machines and photo beauty equipment
*Equipment specifications, accessories, warranties, fees, and contract terms vary by manufacturer and model. Please check with each manufacturer for the latest information when considering an introduction.