Setting up your treatment room is one of the most exciting (and stressful) steps in your esthetician journey. With so many tools, gadgets, and upgrades out there, it’s easy to overbuy or invest in things you don’t actually need (especially when you’re just starting out).

So, today I’m simplifying that process for you. Whether you’re building your first setup or looking to refresh your current space, I’m breaking down the must-have essentials across three key areas: treatment equipment, admin tools, and comfort-focused extras. You’ll gather practical advice on what matters most, where to start, and how best to invest, plus links to products that are trusted by thousands of estheticians!

📌 Keep an eye out for tips throughout this article, to help you make smarter spending decisions, and if you're not sure what to prioritize first, don't worry - I’ve highlighted the essentials to get you started.

‍

Why the right supplies matter

The supplies in your treatment room not only support your services, they shape your client experience and are a reflection of your professionalism. The right setup helps you work efficiently, stay organized, and maintain hygiene standards, all while creating a space that feels professional and trustworthy for your clients. After all, you want your space to work with you, not against you.

But investing in quality doesn’t always mean spending more. It’s about being intentional - only purchasing the items you truly need and that align with how you work.

‍

‍How to avoid overspending

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of setting up your space, especially with social media showing perfectly styled clinics and spas filled with all the latest tools and aesthetic extras. 

But the truth is, you don’t need everything at once. When you’re just starting out, the smartest move is to invest in what you actually need to deliver great results for your clients. 

Start with the essentials. Reliable equipment, functional tools, and a systems that keep your business running smoothly. Focus on products that are multipurpose or get daily use. Then, build out the rest over time as your client base and budget grow.

‍

Here's a few tips to keep in mind when making purchases:

• Prioritize function over aesthetics. A sleek gadget isn’t worth it if it just sits there collecting dust.
• Don’t be afraid to start simple (and small). Many estheticians and skin pros began with just the basics and built their rooms over time.
• Look for trusted budget-friendly options or secondhand deals for bigger items - especially early on. Recommendations and reviews are your best friend here!
• Avoid impulse buys by asking: Does this improve my service, workflow, or client experience right now? And always give yourself a of couple days to think it over before parting with the cash.

Being intentional with your spending isn’t about cutting corners. It helps you to build your business sustainably, and without unnecessary financial stress.

‍

Esthetician Amazon must-haves to launch

If you’re just getting started, you don’t need a fully kitted-out treatment room from day one. But what you do need is a clean, functional space with the core essentials to deliver safe, professional, high-quality services. This starter pack covers the must-haves across equipment, tools, admin, and comfort all easily available from Amazon. So you can start with confidence and build from there.

Treatment equipment

Treatment bed or table - sturdy, adjustable, and easy to clean: SierraComfort Basic Portable Massage Table Yaheetech Massage Portable Table Spa Bed Yaheetech Message Adjustable Folding Spa Bed

‍

Stool or rolling chair - comfort for long appointments: Rolling Stool Swivel Salon Stool Chair Antlu Saddle Ergonomic Rolliong Stool Chair With Back KKTONER PU Leather Round Rolling Stool with Foot Rest

‍

Lighting or magnifying lamp - good visibility is non-negotiable: Brightech LightView Pro Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand Brighttech LightView Pro Magnifying Floor Lamp Brightech LightView Pro Magnifying Desk Lamp

‍

Hot towel cabi or steamer - choose one to start, depending on your preference and services: ROMECH 23L Hot Towel Warmer Cabinet Towel Steamer-Hot Towel Warmer 600W Towel Warmer Cabinet 8L

‍

Sanitation, PPE, and disposable supplies

Cotton rounds/ sponges: 100% Natural Cosmetic Spa Sponges for Facial Cleansing Clean Skin Club Pads Amazon Basics Hypoallergenic 100% Cotton Rounds

‍

Disposable gloves: MED PRIDE Non Latex Disposable Gloves MedPride Powder-Free Nitrile Gloves Medical Soft Max Nitrile Latex-Free Gloves

‍

Face masks: NNPCBT 100PCS Disposable Face Mask 100PCS Disposable Face Masks

‍

Hand sanitizer: Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer Spray Germ-X Hand Sanitizer Spray Germ-X Original Non-Drying Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer Gel

‍

Disinfectant spray/ wipes: Lysol Disinfectant Spray Amazon Basic Sanitize Wipes Clorox Disinfecting Wipes‍

‍Covered trash bin: Automatic Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Soft-Close Cesun Small Trash Can with Lid Soft Close‍

‍Laundry bin: LifeWit 100L Laundry Basket with Lid SONGMICS Laundry Hamper with Lid 110L 4-Bag Heavy Duty Laundry Sorter Rolling Cart

‍

Disposable bed liners: TPZ 40 Meters White Hygiene Coach Roll 25PCS 84X35in Disposable Fitted Massage Table Sheets with Elastic‍

Microfiber washcloths: Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL YooFoss Luxury Washcloths Towels HIPHOP PANDA Washcloths

‍

Core tools & supplies

Storage cart - to keep tools organized and within reach: Simple 3-Tier Heavy Duty Metal Utility Rolling Cart CAXXA 3-Tier Rolling Metal Storage Organizer Mobile Medical Cart 2-Tier Trolley

‍

Towels, headbands, wraps - washable or single-use: Amazon Basics Soft and Thick Cotton Hand Towels Disposable Facial Spa Headbands Whaline Spa Terry Cloth Facial Headband

‍

Mixing bowls, brushes, applicators - for masks and treatments: 3.3 Inch Silicone Facial Mask Mixing Bowl Facial Fan Mask Brushes Silicone Face Mask Applicators

‍

Extraction tools - if applicable to your services: Blackhead Remover Pimple Popper Tool Kit JPNK Blackhead Remover Tool Kit

‍

Comfort extras

Blanket - for client comfort during treatment: Bedsure Electric Heated Throw Blanket YnM Weighted Blanket Bedsure 100% Cotton Blanket

‍

Music player/ speaker: Amazon Echo Dot DOSS SoundBox Touch Wireless Bluetooth Speaker JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Cluetooth Speaker

‍

This setup list covers the essentials you need to get started on the right foot. As your business grows, you’ll naturally add items that support your treatments and elevate your client experience.

Esthetician treatment room equipment upgrades

Once your treatment room essentials are in place, upgrading your equipment overtime is one of the best ways to enhance your workflow and improve your clients overall experience. This isn’t about buying more, but buying smarter, and upgrading key pieces thoughtfully.

Treatment bed or table

By now, you likely have a treatment bed, but if it’s time to upgrade, consider one with adjustable height, plush cushioning, and easy-to-clean materials. Hydraulic or electric beds can reduce physical strain for you and add a more luxurious feel for your clients.

💡 Pro tip: If you’re offering longer services or lash treatments, client comfort becomes even more important. A bed that supports your posture and theirs is worth the investment.

‍

Magnifying lamp and lighting

As you move into more targeted treatments, good lighting becomes even more important. Look for lamps with adjustable arms, LED lighting, and strong magnification. Bonus if it’s camera-friendly for those before-and-after photos.

💡 Splurge vs. Save: Don’t spend unless it’s definitely worth the investment and something you will use regularly.

‍

Trolly or storage system

As your inventory grows, you may want to consider upgrading from a trolly cart to a system with drawers, lockable storage, or even a custom-built cabinet setup. You will want to prioritize easy access and cleanability.

‍

As your business grows, likely will your service menu, requiring new facial tools and machinery. Only invest in these once your service demands them, and you know you’ll use them consistently as they often come with heavy financial investment.

‍

Treatment tools & utensils

Once you’ve got your core supplies covered, it’s time to look at the smaller tools that can make a big impact on your services. These upgrades can support more advanced services, save you time, and help deliver a consistent experience.

Even everyday items like bowls, brushes, and applicators can benefit from small upgrades:

• Silicone brushes are easier to sanitize than bristle brushes and give a more precise application.
• Glass or stainless steel bowls are more durable and hygienic than plastic.‍
• Reusable tools like spatulas or measuring cups reduce waste and feel more professional than disposables. Plus, they’re better for your bottom line over time.

💡 Splurge vs. Save: Save on bulk disposables like cotton rounds, gloves and sponges. Splurge on tools you’ll sanitize and reuse every day.

‍

Hygiene first

Remember, tools are only as good as how well they’re looked after, cleaned and stored. As your inventory grows, consider investing in:

• A UV sterilizer cabinet or proper tool soak system
• Extra sets of key tools so you’re never scrambling between client
• A dedicated clean/dirty tool station to maintain efficiency and hygiene

‍

Admin & business setup essentials

Behind every polished treatment room is a well-run back end. These business tools may not be as visible as your equipment, but they’re just as essential and play a huge role in your clients experience - often being the first interaction your clients have with your business. So, if you're looking to elevate your setup, this is an area worth refining early on.

‍

Client booking system

If you’re still using a notebook or texting clients manually, switching to a digital booking platform can be a game-changer. It saves time, reduces no-shows, and gives clients the convenience they expect.

💡 Splurge vs. Save: Save by starting with a free or low-cost booking app like Fresha or Square Appointments until you find one you really like, and upgrade to premium features as your client list grows.

Digital intake & consent forms

Paper forms are fine to start, but digital forms streamline your intake process and make record-keeping so much easier. Some booking platforms now offer integrated forms that can be signed online before a client even walks through the door for a more streamlined experience.

‍

Payment processing tools

You’ll need a way to take payments professionally, whether that’s a card reader, tap-to-pay option, or mobile app. Choose a system that’s easy to use and integrates with your booking software if possible.

💡 Starter tip: Clients expect fast, contactless options. Even a basic card reader goes a long way towards boosting trust.

Retail & inventory tracking

Selling skincare products? Even if you’re just starting with a few core items, having a way to track inventory and restock efficiently is key. A simple spreadsheet works early on; later, you might want to integrate retail tracking into your booking or point of sale (POS) system.

‍

Client notes & treatment history

Whether handwritten or digital, consistent record-keeping is key to tracking client progress and delivering personalized care. Over time, consider upgrading to a system that allows you to build secure client profiles, where you can store notes, upload before-and-after photos, and review treatment history at a glance. Not only does this improve continuity of care, it strengthens trust and helps you build lasting client relationships.

‍

Comfort & ambiance extras

These aren’t “essentials” in the functional sense, but they do play a major role in how your space looks and feels. The right ambiance can instantly make clients feel relaxed, cared for, and more likely to rebook. Once you’ve got your treatment room running smoothly, adding a few thoughtful comfort upgrades can turn a one-off appointment into a memorable experience leaving them wanting to book for more.

‍

Lightening that sets the mood

Overhead lights can feel harsh. A soft floor lamp, salt lamp, or dimmable LED strip adds a warm, calming glow, without compromising visibility for treatments.

💡 Splurge vs. Save: Save with a budget-friendly lamp and warm-toned bulb. Splurge on a dimmable system if you want full control over brightness levels.

Scent & sound

Scent and sound are two of the most underrated tools for creating a relaxing environment.

• Essential oil diffusers or subtle room sprays can enhance the spa-like feel (just be mindful of client sensitivities).
• Bluetooth speakers or white noise machines help mask outside distractions and create a peaceful atmosphere.

‍

Client comfort add-ons

Consider these small touches to make your services feel elevated with minimal effort:

• Weighted or fleece blankets for longer treatments
• Neck pillows or leg bolsters for body support
• Towel warmers for that extra cozy moment post-cleanse
• Branded welcome signs or scent cards to reinforce your brand’s personality
• Drinks/ hydration station for pre and post treatment refreshments

💡 Pro tip: Start small. One or two well-chosen upgrades can go further than filling your space with décor that doesn’t serve a purpose.

Creating a space that looks and feels good isn’t about buying into all the trends, it’s about designing an experience that reflects your brand and helps clients feel instantly at ease.

‍

Setting up your esthetician room doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your current setup, the key is to purchase and build with purpose. Focus on what supports your services, enhances your clients experience, and helps your business run smoothly. Everything else can come with time.

Remember:

✅ Start with the essentials
✅ Upgrade as your business grows
✅ Stay intentional with your investments

Whether you're just getting started or simply getting organized, you're building a space that works for you and your clients, and that’s what sets the foundation for long-term success.