Renting a professional laser?

Hair Removal Methods Laser hair removal
#1

Hey everyone,

Do any of the pros have any ideas on how this works? I was thinking earlier I pay so much for laser, it would be nice to own my own then just charge people and treat them. It’s such a big investment though but then I found a company like rentlasers.ca which shows right now their “promo” is regular $4500 but is only $1500 and for 3 months you get the LightSheer/Duet for 1 day where they deliver it to you and you get it for the full day.

So I figure that’s $500 per month, which is cheap to do the entire body lol. Then if I could get 2 or 3 friends that wanted treatments they could just come over and pay for them to off-set the cost.

I have no idea if these places would even rent to me if I don’t have an actual spa, and I assume they are looking for something more long-term so I’m guessing there’s probably a year long or more contract you have to pay but not really sure. Was curious if anyone had any experience with how these rental places work and what the rates/terms typically are?

#2

Actually just to add to this on Kijiji I found tons of postings for all different lasers with just daily rates. One showed Soprano XL for $450 for one day and if you rent 3 days the 4th day is 50% off. I guess it just matters whether they would rent to anyone or a salon/spa only but sounds like this makes more sense??

#3

These are medical devices. They should not be sold to the general public. They are expensive to maintain as well. I get a couple e-mails a day from all over the world, trying to sell used lasers. How do others feel?

#4

I am also contacted regularly about purchasing lasers.
We are on the same lists Dee.

An untrained person is going to have a hard time finding a good malpractice and liability insurance policy.

Recently a DIYer was trying to administer blend electrolysis without the ground.

Imagine a DIYer without the appropriate eye gear.

#5

Well just got off the phone with them, for $450 for one day it’s definitely a bargain compared to paying for treatment from another clinic. They have most lasers available and it’s up to me which I want. You don’t need to be an esthetician or have any training as they train you when they drop it off so sounds like a deal to me. Just doing it on myself anyway.

#6

Please take a look at this:

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/WFive/20120127/w5-laser-hair-removal-120128/?s_name=W5

#7

I am imploring you to think deeply about this, edokid. This is a page from the FDA, mainly related to laser pointers, but they do mention medical lasers as well.

Radiation-Emitting Products

Home Radiation-Emitting Products Radiation Safety Alerts and Notices
Radiation Safety
Alerts and Notices

Consumer Safety Alert: Internet Sales of Laser Products
[color:#FF9900]The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is aware that some laser products being sold on the internet may not meet federal safety requirements and should not be available for purchase by the general public. In some cases, these products are overpowered and may be unsafe if not used responsibly. In other cases, these products are intended for use only by licensed medical professionals, trained operators, or other approved users.[/color]

FDA’s Concerns

FDA is concerned about recent reports of laser products directed at aircraft—a potentially hazardous situation. The agency is particularly concerned about the increased availability of overpowered green laser pointers. Overpowered green laser pointers are those that may have been modified to emit more radiation than the manufacturer’s original product.

What FDA Can Do

FDA’s authority is over the manufacturers of laser products. These products must meet a federal standard for the amount of radiation they can emit and must be properly labeled. FDA is working to identify manufacturers of overpowered green laser pointers and other illegal laser products and will take action to prevent unsafe products from being sold in the United States. If illegal products are imported into the U.S., they may be refused entry, returned to the seller, or destroyed.

Buyer Beware

FDA recommends that consumers be cautious when buying laser products over the internet. Consumers may unknowingly purchase an illegal laser product or may lose their money if the illegal product is refused entry into the U.S. or destroyed.

Consumers should be aware that:

Medical lasers may only be sold to licensed medical practitioners.
Class IIIb and class IV laser light show projectors, identified as such on the label, may only be sold by or to individuals or firms with current, approved laser light show variances from FDA. Laser products that are advertised as uncertified components may only be sold to other manufacturers and may not be sold to the public for general use.
Laser products should have certification and identification labels stating the product complies with the federal laser standard.

Complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11
Complies with 21 CFR Chapter 1, Subchapter J
Manufactured or distributed by…
Date of Manufacture
Products should have a warning label (shown below) advising the user to avoid exposure to the laser radiation.

Consumers who can not verify the above, or do not understand what it means, probably should not sell or purchase the products.

More for Consumers

Illuminating Facts About Laser Pointers
Illuminating the Hazards of Powerful Laser Products

Additional Internet Information

Buying Medical Devices and Diagnostic Tests Online
FDA eBay Warning
Reporting Unlawful Sales of Medical Products on the Internet

For Industry

Important Information for Laser Pointer Manufacturers

Contact FDA

800-638-2041
301-847-8149 Fax
dsmica@fda.hhs.gov
CDRH-Radiological Health Program
Office of Communication, Education and Radiation Programs
Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue WO66-4613
Silver Spring, MD 20993

#8

I don’t really understand these posts. I plan on using the chart from the manufacturer for my skin type and starting at the absolute lowest setting to do a test patch then wait at least 6-8 hours to see the reaction. I’m not going to just crank it up to the highest setting and then start inviting my whole street over for treatments or something. The first day I got it would be more of a test, using low settings, or the settings that I’ve had used on me before at other clinics. I’m not just some random consumer that doesn’t want to pay for pro treatments, I’ve spent close to $10,000 in professional treatments if not more on myself and am very knowledgeable. I just don’t get how this is any different from me posting saying I’m renovating the back of my house and opening up a professional hair removal clinic. The places I go to for laser right now aren’t medical clinics, they’re people that got tired of paying so much for laser and thought they might as well open up their own business.

To Dee your article is about the FDA in the US, I’m in Canada.

#9

Edokid i have to agree that many of the laser places i have checked out are people who were paying high prices and decided to buy the same machine, have the instruction that the company gives and then they are open for biz. To be honest most of the techs i have met look at me with blank stares when i start to ask questions. Makes me wonder if i jave done way more research than them , and am i actually any safer in their hands when all they are going on is what the laser rep told them and that was it!
What machine would you rent?
I came to this board originally looking for advice re LHR, i can see that the few helpful good souls that post here are predominantly electolysists, and so with that influence i have travelled to another city to begin some intensive electrol on my face. My appoint is today and i am nervous, i had posted some important questions here and was so hoping for any advice, but there has not been any response to my extensive posts. I am kind of disapointed but there seem to only be a few folks who are experts on this forum and they are likely stretched and doing the best they can. During all my consults laser was pushed over electol for my sideburn area and i was told it would be cheaper, less invasive and faster results.some have shown photos that look great. It is this forum and the many imes it is said laser does not work on fine hair, and the danger of more hair growing on face post laser that made me go to electo instead, but at this moment, soon to give my sensitive face to many probings i feel nervous and wonder if i am foolish to let a handful of people ive never met convince me of the greater benefits of this path! Sometimes i am doubting my choice to let this forum influence to go with my choice of electrol instead as i look at my arm which had fine hair and after 1 laser treatment months ago there is way less hair and the skin looks good. Oh well, i think i am just disappointed that when i was really needing some advice and support it int here, though bottom line i super appreciate the kindness of the few pros that do the best they can here. Ultimately we are on our own. If we do enough research, consult many pros and act with great care as you have described we are not much different then, and maybe even more prepared than so many of the laser “spas” out there. Please keep in touch with me on your plan as i was considering returning to TO in late june to see drac for alex lhr session. You have been very helpful here and i am greatful for that. Good luck

#10

I understand your frustration for seeking a DIY approach, but it is not a safe approach.

Lasers are classified because they have different degrees of hazard - radiation output. There are 4 classes, with Class 1 being less hazardous than Class 4. Class 4 is the most hazardous. In Canada all lasers currently used (as of October 2011) for hair reduction are Class 3 and Class 4. This means that direct exposure to the laser radiation is HAZARDOUS to unprotected eyes or skin.

As of October 2011, the Canadian safety guidelines for laser facility laser owners have relied on the requirements outlined in Europe and the United States Food and Drug Administration(FDA). I would assume that there are regulations guiding who may use lasers in each province and territory?

My concerns are related to accidental exposure of high-powered laser radiation devices that can cause permanent damage to your retina or skin burns. There are other side effects that may occur with the process from herpes simplex outbreaks and bacterial infections to lightening of moles.

Potential laser hazards can occur in the environment where the laser is used. Is your room going to be up to the safety standards that are used by professionals? The beam can be reflected off of shiny surfaces and inadvertently target eyes and skin. There should be no windows in the room. Fire may occur if there are combustible materials in the room. There have been reports of explosions caused by the ignition of dust that has collected in the ventilation systems. Toxic gases, vapors and even viruses may be released in the air. A laser controlled area must be taken into strong consideration. Do you know about eyewear Do’s and Don’ts? Do you know about fire safety? Do you have a proper ventilation system to avoid inhaling airborne junk and a knowledge of infection control?

What classification of laser are you purchasing? May I ask what province you reside in? Who will repair the laser if you purchase one?

I hope you take the time to research what is allowed in your province and consider the above points.

EDITED:I am not a trained laser specialist, but did my best to inform you about DIY laser with Class 3B and Class 4 devices for sale or rent on the internet, if that is what you are considering. I will contact Chris K. and ask him to review what I posted and correct anything that may be incorrect.

EDITED: Danika - I am stretched in my professional and private life at this time Sorry I could not go into long detail to answer your posts and reassure you at this time. Many of your concerns have already been answered if you hang out on the forums long enough.

#11

Great, you’re in Canada, then watch the W5 link I posted. I’m going to be blunt and say that if after watching that you decide to go ahead and rent a laser YOU’RE AN ABSOLUTE FOOL.

I’m not just throwing out an insult, you need to hear it in plain language. This plan is crazy.

Secondly, the fact that you don’t understand Dee’s posts and think it’s irrelevant to you that they’re from an American organization also speaks volumes about your ability to grasp this technology. You are simply NOT qualified in any way, shape or form to operate a laser.

Lecture over.

#12

I’ve seen that W5 special and it’s a total joke actually, I’m guessing you didn’t even actually watch it yourself and just read the summary? Because everything they say is common sense in it. They show people being burned by laser that have black skin and got treatment, like no kidding. Every laser tech I’ve gone to has mentioned that special about how it’s hurting the industry and is a total crock, try watching it before throwing out useless remarks and trying to look intelligent. You’re talking about people that do NAILS for a living buying a laser to start offering laser hair removal and then burning people when they have no experience at all. If you actually took the time to read a single one of my posts on here, you’d see that I’m not just some random consumer. Before I deleted my account on here due to retards like you, I was in the top 10 for highest posts and have helped tons of people, so get a clue moron.

Neither of you have even taken the time to read my post because Dee just mentioned me BUYING a laser, um read the topic, it says RENTING. Where you RENT it for 1 day, so they maintain it and do training on it. Furthermore the fact that 2 “professional” electrologist on here are trying to say it’s a bad idea doesn’t really mean anything to me. They just realize that if people start renting them at home then that’s no more business for them. It is irrelevant that it’s from an American organization talking about banning the import of lasers into the country for sale, sorry but how does that affect me in any way shape or form? Hate to break it to you but there are other countries in the world other than the USA, so stop acting like what one of your organizations says means it’s the absolute truth, my god.

Anyway I’m done with this forum it’s the biggest waste of time. People need to grow up and learn how to speak instead of being so insulting. Calling me a fool because of some TV show really makes you look intelligent. Reply to this thread all you want, I won’t be on here again so I’ll save you the energy.

#13

Okay, I will reply to others then to correct some statements.

I did say for purchase . Sorry. Some people do want to purchase their own and this reply is meant for the renter or the purchaser. I encourage people to do whatever they decide to do for themselves because I believe in PERSONAL FREEDOM. I did mention that Canada follows European laser guidelines and United States FDA guidelines. If you carefully peruse my post again you will see that information, but since you are leaving, I guess I just will have to say that for the benefit of others.

I have no financial interest in poo-pooing a rent-a-laser strategy. I hardly have a full day of rest from doing electrolysis. I am busy because when laser attempts have been exhausted, the hairy come to the electrologist to complete their hair removal. I am pro-LASER and I honestly see great results, my eldest daughter included! BUTTTT…laser hair reduction cannot see all hair structure and all hair colors. Who ya gonna call then? No, not Ghostbusters. No, not your personal guru. No, not ACME. You call an electrologist. Yal!!!.. ( said with a Howard Dean scream)

Will miss you edokid.

#14

i have much appreciated the help and posts of Edokid and I can only hope he will return. I have to agree with his statements about people who paint nails for a living doing laser. it is so true. Even the fanciest place here with a doctor present did not know how to answer some pretty basic laser questions . If edo does his due research and gets everything up to speed there is no reason that can not be done. Of course it is risky and i appreciate the time you took to spell out some of those risks Dee but I might give Edo kid a better chance than some of the laser “salons” airheads i have met in my search for laser!
And by the way, if you read what i said , i dont expect you to answer my posts. I can tell there are only a few good souls replying on this board and for each of you i am very greatful. Come back Edo!!

PS PERSONAL question post electro on face please …Are pure coco oil, or honey or lavendar , or shea butter, or rosehip oil all no no’s for a few days after electro? They seem like they would be so healing,after al isn’t lavender great for healing from burns. Llavender is antiseptic and not as harsh as tea tree but maybe there is a reason to only use tea tree ? I was given a teatree lotion from tech but i do not know exactly what is in it and i thought i read here to avoid all lotions…

#15

by 72 hours post treatment, you can do what ever you would normally do with your face. The things we advise on here have more to do with zero hour to 72 hours post treatment.

I like my clients to use Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Very for the first 12 to 24 hours at least. Some people use Tea Tree Oil with 50% Lavendar. I would hold off on coco oil and shea butter for at least 24 hours, post treatment, but would feel better if it was 48 to 72 hours later.

#16

james, THanks Stop. One of my specialties is all natural body care products and normally I make all my own skin care with these sort of fab ingredients. Being out of town and concerned about doing the wrong thing when it came to electrolysis which i am not an expert in, I trusted the place i had it done and have used only the creme they gave me. I did not use the bright green tea tree gel as i could tell right away that it had green dye…but the creme seems fairly natural and she told me it was an antiseptic with tea tree and to apply frequently. I wrote here and I called to ask about the ingredients were but only heard back late today and i discovered that what i have been slathering on my sensitive skin and just intensively treated electro face is :Aqua, paraffinum liquidum, melaleuca alternifolia (5%), glycerine, isopropyl myristate, stearic cid, glycol stearate, isopropyl lanolate, triethanolamine, carbomer, cetearyl alcohol, sodium laureth sulphate, propylene glycol, diazolidinyl urea, methylparaben, propylparaben, limonene, linalool, coumarine, parfum.
YIKES! SO i am glad i didn’t react ,as I never use this crap, never mind when my skin has just been intensively probed. Now i just wonder if my face can handle the wash and the switch up to my own oils etc. Now I know. Anyhow my face seems stable and no longer red ,just bumpy and slightly itchy. I hope it doesn’t react by a gentle wash. I will apply honey to heal if that sounds ok…

#17

Don’t feel too bad Dee.
He will be back.
This is not the first time ed has unregistered and reregistered.

#18

Well,the “kid” in edokid was spot on based on his hysterical response. I really don’t think anyone should offer encouraging words to someone who a) responded in a childish and insulting manner, and b) CLEARLY LACKS THE INTELLIGENCE, THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICAL SKILL TO PERFORM LASER TREATMENTS.

I truly think it’s irresponsible to stand by and allow someone who is so obviously uneducated in the medical profession to go through with this ridiculous notion of DIY laser. DIY electrolysis is pushing the limits imo, but this is something else!

#19

Yup.

#20

Pink, I f you dont know Edokid then you really can not judge him. To be honest he is more educated then most of the laser “techs” ive met and interviewed, which he accurately described often as people who paint fingernails for a living. . With some of the training there is nothing to say he is any different than the techs that get the same training and warnings and add it to their salon. In fact I would go as far as to say I would rather see edokid than many i have met. I am really sorry he left this forum as he was super helpful.