3-in-1 device or dedicated laser: which should you choose?
A 3-in-1 combo laser saves money and space, but when it is busy or broken, every service stops. Pros, cons and what to check before choosing a device.
"Chase two lasers and you'll catch neither!"
The original proverb is about hares, but the meaning is the same...
There are many different lasers on the equipment market today, from dedicated devices to multifunctional "combo" machines.
But what lies behind the tempting phrase "3 in 1"? Is the benefit of a multipurpose laser really that obvious? Let's figure it out.
What is a "combo laser"?
The answer is in the name: the word "combo" (short for "combination") suggests that a single device can perform several tasks.
According to the manufacturer, you can perform several procedures on one laser!
These devices have two obvious advantages:
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You don't spend money on additional equipment.
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You save space in your treatment room or clinic.
I'm not against multitasking lasers, but I want you to know: things are not as rosy as they seem.
Always pay attention to how many tips come with the device and to their technical specifications. If each tip corresponds to a specific function, that's good. But a single handpiece for all parameters is already questionable…
When choosing a laser, use this algorithm:
Do you want to buy a multifunction laser?
You don't need several tips for the handpiece
If each tip performs a specific function, that's a good sign. The device's functionality is fine (most likely)
One handpiece for all parameters is very doubtful. I'd recommend studying the laser's description and specifications carefully and checking the seller's reputation.
Say I bought a good-quality combo laser. What are its downsides?
Suppose you bought a good multipurpose device and you have no complaints about the tips.
But what if different people need different functions of the device at the same time? You haven't finished a laser removal session yet, and another client has already arrived for a carbon CO₂ peel. That's a scheduling clash!
Add to this the possibility of a breakdown. A feature of "3-in-1" equipment is that it has one power supply, one control system, one cooling system and so on.
So if the power supply or the circulation system fails, all your services are paralysed at once, and you end up losing money!
If a multifunctional device is busy, it is completely busy. If it breaks, it breaks completely too!
Should I give up a combo laser in favour of a dedicated one?
I'm not trying to talk you out of buying combo devices; I'm just weighing up all the pros and cons. Before buying equipment, you should study a whole range of factors and specifications!
My table will help you find your way when choosing a laser:
Specialised laser
- Separate devices don't depend on each other
- Different functions can be used at the same time
- Usually more effective and wider settings
- Higher cost
- Take up more space
Multi-purpose “combine” (3-in-1 device)
- A “combine” often costs less than several separate devices
- Saves space
- If the device is busy, it's busy entirely: different functions can't be used at the same time
- If it breaks down (power supply, cooling), all services stop at once
Frequently asked questions
Is a 3-in-1 combo laser a good choice for tattoo removal?
It saves money on extra equipment and space in the treatment room, but it has one power supply, control system and cooling system. If the device is busy, it is completely busy, and if it breaks, all your services stop at once.
What should I check before buying a 3-in-1 laser?
How many tips come with the device and their technical specifications. If each tip corresponds to a specific function, that's good; a single handpiece for all parameters is already questionable.
