A major challenge of any practice offering cosmetic laser treatments to their clientele is the high cost of new laser equipment. For many, taking advantage of the used laser equipment market is the best way to tackle this challenge. While purchasing a used laser device may in some cases be riskier than purchasing brand new equipment, going into the process with the right knowledge and plan of action can help you minimize risk and find the perfect device for your business at the best possible price.
The first step is to understand the risks. Common problems buyers may run into include receiving the wrong device, not receiving the equipment you paid for at all, receiving equipment in poorer condition than promised, or receiving a device that doesn’t work or breaks quickly after use. With these risks in mind, let’s examine the best ways to avoid a poor outcome while ensuring that you’re paying the best price for the used laser equipment you want.
Do Your Research
Knowledge is power, and the field of laser equipment is wide and varied, so make sure you take stock of the different laser devices available and determine exactly what you want. When researching used laser equipment, consider the following.
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- Type of laser: There are several different cosmetic laser types, including Nd:Yag, CO2, Erbium, Alexandrite, Q-Switched, Diode, Fractional, and more.
- Brand: Some in demand laser brands include Cynosure, Cutera, Candela, Lumenis, Sciton, and Alma.
- Model: Many laser equipment manufacturers have multiple laser platforms with very similar names, but different capabilities. For example, Cynosure PicoSure and PicoSure Pro sound awfully similar, but the PicoSure Pro has the additional capability of tattoo removal.
- Age: Newer models will be slightly more expensive to buy used than older lasers because they typically have less wear-and-tear. Moreover, laser devices can undergo changes in design, features and technology over the years, even if they belong to the same model. Newser lasers may be more energy efficient, employ more modern technology, changes to the user interface, and portability (older lasers tend to be heavier than newer ones). Older lasers are also less likely to come with all of their original accessories and attachments, as well as their service manuals. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule—every laser is different, after all!
Research your equipment options by looking at online used laser resellers to see what they have available in their inventories. You may also want to reach out to any contacts you have to see if they can provide a lead on the device you’re looking for.
Verify Authenticity and Condition
After locating a device you’re interested in, the next step is to determine whether the offer is legitimate. In other words, you need to make sure that the listing isn’t fake or offering a counterfeit product. First, check that the listing comes with several images of the device in question, as well as any associated attachments or accessories. You should be able to view every angle of the product from the images.
Is the reseller using the same images for multiple listings? This is often an indication that the seller may not actually have what they say they have in stock. Sometimes, untrustworthy sellers may even use photos with a different reseller’s watermark still on them.
Even if the website and product listing appear aboveboard, it’s still a good idea to call the reseller, and be prepared with some questions, such as:
- Do you have the equipment in your possession?
- Can we do a video call so I can see the equipment and make sure it’s operational, and in the advertised condition?
- Can I see the current usage on the device? (Shot or hour counts, lamp life, etc)
- How do I get service on this equipment after I purchase it?
Also, be sure to assess the device’s service history, and whether there are any service records available. If so, check how long it’s been used, and whether there’s been any recorded issues. Has the machine ever been service, or required repairs?
Understand Warranty Options
When you go to purchase your desired used laser equipment, see what options you have on the warranty. Does the seller offer any warranty options? Make sure you know what your options are if the device is damaged, or if you receive a laser that doesn’t match the description of what you purchased.
Negotiate the Best Deal
Don’t let yourself get swindled! When making a decision on purchasing a used laser, check listings to see what other, similar devices are being sold for online. Different factors will affect price, including age, wear and tear, how often it’s been serviced or repaired, and whether it comes with all of its original attachments or accessories. Another factor that may impact price depending on the model or machine type is industry demand for that device, as well.
A Trusted Laser Reseller
Buying a used laser can save your business a lot of money, but it’s important to find a seller you trust to avoid some of the risks that come from buying used equipment online. Laser Resellers is your trusted, reliable source for the used laser equipment your business is looking for.
We only advertise lasers we have in our warehouse, and we make sure the laser you order is always the laser you actually get. We provide maintenance on every laser we sell so that we can be sure that you receive it in perfect working condition, but if you encounter an issue, we offer a 30-day warranty so you can get your money back. Contact us today to learn more about how Laser Resellers can help you obtain the equipment you need!