Skin-imaging equipment comes in many forms these days and leaves no shortage of options for the professional to choose from. Each imaging device comes with an array of purposes and spa uses, which should be kept in mind when searching for the right device. Some devices can project an image of what a client will look like post-treatment, while some are designed primarily to aid professionals in getting a closer look at a client’s current skin state.

When selecting an imaging device, there are many essential factors to consider. The modalities of a device created to aid in skin treatments on the face may have different functions than equipment used for body treatments such as fat reduction.

Skin care professionals should determine the features needed in a device before shopping for equipment. This is a good way to narrow down options during the selection process. For instance, if it is important to capture changes in coloration and skin health beneath the surface, that may or may not require different equipment than a device that captures changes on the surface. When monitoring discoloration issues, it may be necessary to purchase equipment with lighting that identifies red and brown areas on the skin.

No matter the specifics of a spa’s dream device, there are a few benchmarks to assess when selecting the appropriate equipment for the spa.

EASE OF PHOTO ACCESS

The first benchmark is ease of photo access. While this may not be at the top of the list when searching for the ultimate device, keep in mind that it may be necessary to share images between several workstations or to access the images outside of the spa. When looking for ways to offer more value during basic treatments to increase prices, it is always an added bonus when images can be shared with clients in a manner that they can access from anywhere. Spas should keep in mind that the ability to provide clients with pictures of their skin pre-treatment and throughout various sessions is invaluable. This allows clients to see their skin’s recovery process closeup and in real time versus waiting to see if their skin will be comparable to a mock image created before the service. This will also allow for the client to compare their results to before and after photos, which is also a useful marketing tool for the spa.

IMAGE QUALITY

The next thing to consider is the quality of the images procured from this equipment. Pictures that can display even the most acute details are necessary to accurately present progression within a treatment or system. This also offers great options for before and after images, which aids in the marketing of different treatments, enhances the offerings in even the most basic treatments, and creates a visual record of how specific treatments or key ingredients work for individual clients. Spas can utilize this to draw in new clients through the marketing of their before and after images.

SUPPORT AND TRAINING

Finally, it is paramount that any equipment chosen has an easy-to-contact technical support department and accessible training for spa professionals. Spa professionals should be very clear on the equipment’s policies and support when it comes to investing in imaging equipment – be sure to know their policies and timeline for repairing and dealing with the equipment purchased.

In order to truly ensure that the money spent on the equipment was well worth the investment, training a large portion of the staff to use the equipment appropriately and in a timely manner is necessary. It is wise to seek out a company that features reputable sources and reviews from other spa owners. Take the time to research, ask questions, and train staff to preserve the equipment.

Though it is tempting to purchase the latest technology for the spa, it should be noted that clients will not be impressed by the possession of a skin-imaging machine unless the value added to their experience will be tangible. Keep in mind that the primary purpose of purchasing an imaging device is to enhance the spa’s consultations, treatments, and retention without negatively disrupting the current flow of the spa or overwhelming the client. Be sure to research how an imaging system will affect your business model and how this device can create a better treatment or protocol for clients. Keeping this philosophy in mind will lead to a sound investment.