Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1539961
54 ASCP Skin Deep Autumn 2025 Navigating Big Equipment Purchases A buying guide for estheticians by Kasey Boone THERE'S ONE TOPIC THAT CAN seem as overwhelming as a double-booked Saturday: big equipment purchases. Don't panic, plan. Big equipment doesn't have to mean big stress—but it does require clarity. Start by getting crystal clear on your return on investment (ROI). Ask yourself: Will this elevate my client experience? Can I raise my prices? How many treatments will it take to cover the cost? Then, how do you budget for and plan these big-ticket items? Let's break it down. CONSIDER THE BIG PICTURE Before anything else, you need to consider the "why" behind the purchase. Are you expanding your service menu with a new modality? Have you been trained in a new technique that requires specific equipment? Are all your clients asking for the same treatment or are they in need of something new and elevated? Understanding the purpose is a must and will help you evaluate whether the purchase aligns with your business goals. Next, research is key. Look into the types of equipment available and consider factors like reliability, brand reputation, and customer reviews. Talk to fellow estheticians who've made similar purchases. Their insights can be invaluable. Don't buy the first thing you see. I've mistakenly done that many times. I now like to follow the same rule of thumb as if I were getting a quote on a car or some work done on my home. Get at least three quotes and compare/contrast them. BUDGETING BASICS Big purchases require a strategic approach to budgeting—because let's be real, no one wants buyer's remorse when they could've just bought more serums instead. Follow these steps: • Assess your finances—Take a good, hard look at your current financial situation. What can you realistically afford? Remember, this isn't just about the purchase price; consider maintenance, consumables, and any additional training costs that may come with it. • Set a budget—Determine how much money you can allocate toward this purchase each month. Be realistic and ensure this amount doesn't strain your daily operations. Personally, I like to break it down by asking, "How many treatments per month would it take to pay for this?" That perspective helps me decide if it's sustainable, especially if I'm planning to raise prices or introduce a new service tier. GETTY IMAGES BEYOND TREATMENT