What Equipment Do Successful Hairdressers Need?

Starting out as a new hairdresser can be stressful as there are so many supplies and salon furnishings that you will need to purchase to become successful. But don’t worry – we will walk you through all of the essential supplies and equipment you will need to be successful.

When it comes to purchasing salon equipment, you want to make sure that you find the equipment that will help you do your job to your best ability, as well as equipment that looks nice in your current salon. It’s important to balance what’s practical for your budget, as well as invest in high-quality supplies and equipment that will last you a while.

Whether you have already started your own equipment and supplies checklist or you need some guidance on what you should purchase and what you don’t need, this article will point you in the right direction.

Equipment and Supplies That Successful Hairdressers Need

Take note of these essential supplies and equipment that you will need as a successful hairstylist.

1. High-Quality Salon Chair

Salon chairs not only need to be stylish and fit in with your salon’s aesthetic, but they should also be comfortable for your clients. When you purchase salon chairs, make sure you prioritize quality so that your chairs can last you a few years.

2. Salon Stations

Salon stations are important for every hairstylist to have for many reasons. Stations can provide storage for a stylist’s tools and they also can highlight retail products in a way that allows you to sell more. Of course, most salon stations also come with mirrors, which are a critical part of hairstyling.

3. Shampoo Backwash Station

Every stylist will need a shampooing and backwash station in order to complete most services. Whether you will be performing a blowout or highlights, using shampoo systems is a must.

4. Color Processors

Achieve the perfect color with every client by ensuring that you invest in quality color processors. There are a variety of systems that can fit in with any salon and meet particular needs.

5. Carts and Trolleys

Whether you work in a large salon where you are always switching salon stations or you work in a salon suite, having a few carts and trolleys can help you be more flexible. Carts and trolleys will also provide you with storage for your supplies, tools and products.

6. Sharp Scissors

As a hairstylist, you will work with different kinds of clients who have unique hair textures, needs and styles. In order to make sure you can take any client who walks in the door, you will want to keep a variety of sharp scissors. As you work with your scissors, you will want to make sure you keep them clean and sharp so that you can provide quality services.

7. Sanitation Products

Now, more than ever, using sanitary supplies and keeping your salon clean is critical. As a stylist, you have a variety of options when it comes to choosing the right sanitation methods. From UV sanitizers that use light to clean your tools to chemical cleaners like Barbicide that quickly sanitize your supplies, make sure your station is equipped with sanitation products that will empower you to provide the best service.

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8. Hot Tools

Making sure your client’s hair looks better leaving your salon than it did when they came in is an important part of being the best hairstylist you can be. In order to do so, you will want to stock your salon trolley with the latest hot tools so you can achieve trendy styles and looks for your clients. Every hair stylist should have a curling wand or iron, a straightener and a blow dryer.

9. Handheld Mirrors

It’s important to have handheld mirrors at your styling station so that you can show your client their hair from different angles.

10. Foils

If you are a stylist who performs highlights or balayage treatments, you will need to keep foils and other color products on hand.

11. High-Quality Products

From coloring products like dyes, developer and bleach to styling products like serums, hair spray and shampoo, hairstylists need to stock up on the products they need to use for a variety of services. Some salons may have shampoos, conditioners and other products that they have partnered with and prefer their stylists to use, but be prepared to provide your own products, too.

12. Apparel

To protect your clothing and your client’s garments from the harsh chemicals used through the appointment, you should wear an apron and provide your client with a cape. Having a few different styles and varieties to fit different body types can be helpful.

13. Towels

During every aspect of the service, you will most likely find yourself needing to use a towel. From draping it around the client’s neck to using it to dry hair that was just washed, it’s important to keep a variety of towels in different sizes. Stick to colors that are easy to wash and won’t get too worn out from the chemicals.

14. Brushes and Combs

To be a stylist who is truly versatile and can handle different hairstyles and textures, you will need to keep a variety of combs and brushes. There are many different materials and styles of combs and brushes that all range in price. To ensure you are filling your toolkit with the right brushes and combs, think about the kinds of services you usually offer and which tools are needed the most.

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15. Clippers

If you handle a lot of clients with short hair or work in a barbershop, you may need to keep a pair of clippers to achieve a close and precise cut. Clippers can be used for trimming the hairs on the neck, lining up a client’s hairline or trimming sideburns and beards.

Now, you have all the tools and equipment necessary to confidently and thoroughly style hair. How many of these items do you already have in your hairstylist tool kit? Improve your services and offerings by adding these tools and equipment to your salon.

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