Joining the medical aesthetics industry as a salon, day spa, or other non-medical aesthetic business is an exciting route for growth and increasing profits!
Still, business owners should be aware of the necessary steps to take when growing their operation with one of the most popular aesthetic treatments! While the methods for removing unwanted hair seem endless (shaving, waxing, sugaring, electrolysis), laser hair removal continues to be the most requested solution thanks to its minimal discomfort, fast treatment times, and lasting effects. However, there are a few things to consider before adding laser hair removal to your existing business.
Here are the first three things to examine when adding laser hair removal to a salon, day spa, or other non-medical aesthetic business:
1. Understanding the Market for Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal’s popularity has been on the rise in recent years, and it’s often considered the most sought-after aesthetics procedure. Based on conservative benchmarks, at least 30% of the population over 18 seek laser hair removal treatments for their unwanted hair (80% women and 20% men). The average treatment course hovers around $1500 per patient depending on the number of treatments required, size of the area, etc. This inclusive patient pool and favorable revenue estimate situate laser hair removal as one of the most worthwhile services that clinics can offer to increase profits. While laser hair removal is often considered the “gateway treatment” for patients seeking additional aesthetic procedures, adding laser hair removal to your practice can lead to implementing other profitable aesthetic services as well.
2. Laser Hair Removal Laws and Regulations
Did you know that there are specific laws per state regarding who can operate a laser? Like training to become a stylist, massage therapist, or manicurist, becoming a laser hair removal practitioner requires a certain number of training hours, theoretical knowledge, and certification. Researching your state’s laser laws is a crucial step in adding any laser service to your existing business because it’s important to understand just how much training you’ll need for your new business venture. For example, some states only require a class and certification and Medical Director listed on your staff, while others require laser hair removal practitioners to be registered nurses. Click here for tips on researching your state’s laser regulations.
3. Preparing Your Business Location for a Laser
When considering adding laser hair removal to your business, you need to plan where exactly the laser will live in your shop. Be aware that the light emitted from aesthetic lasers is harmful to the eyes, so practitioners and patients must wear protective goggles AND perform treatments in an enclosed room without windows (or at least with window coverings) to avoid endangering other employees and clients. If your storefront does not have a closed-off room, consider how you can build the proper treatment space. Some rental agencies allow their renters to customize their space upon negotiation.
Learn More About Adding Laser Hair Removal to a Salon
These are just a few of the first steps to think through when adding laser hair removal to your salon, day spa, or other business. Other necessary steps include understanding the different types of hair removal lasers, training, financing your laser, ongoing business support, and more. Navigating your entry into the medical-aesthetics industry can be complicated, so we’ve compiled our insight, advice, best practices, and things to be wary of to share during a special webinar on February 25, 2021, at 1:00 PM CST! This webinar is free to view, and all registrants will receive access to the recording after the live-stream. Click here to register for the webinar. See you then!
