Syringes and needles are the most-used supplies in most med spas, and the most likely thing to run out on a busy day. Stocking the right mix saves money and keeps treatments moving.
Syringe types
- Luer-lock syringes screw onto the needle and won't pop off under pressure. Most practices use them for viscous products and drawing up.
- Slip-tip syringes push on; they're quicker but less secure.
- Insulin syringes (0.3, 0.5 and 1 mL) have fixed needles and fine graduations for small volumes.
- Low dead-space syringes and needles leave less product in the hub, which matters with expensive products.
Needle gauge and length
Gauge runs opposite to size: a higher number is a thinner needle. Practices stock larger gauges, such as 18 G, for drawing up and finer gauges for injection, as their providers prefer. Length is chosen per technique. Keep the specific sizes your providers use in each treatment room.
Safety-engineered devices
OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires employers to evaluate and use safer medical devices, such as needles with sharps-injury protection, where appropriate, and to involve frontline staff in choosing them. Document your evaluation each year.
Questions to ask your supplier
- Is it Luer-lock or slip-tip, and is it low dead-space?
- Is it a safety-engineered device?
- How many come per box, and how many boxes per case?
- Is it latex-free?
- What's the expiration on current stock?
Stocking tips
Track usage by size for a month, then set par levels for each room and a standing order to match. Order by the box or case for better pricing, and rotate stock by expiration date.
Frequently asked questions
Luer-lock or slip-tip?
Luer-lock is more secure and is the usual choice for drawing up and viscous products. Slip-tip is fine for many routine uses.
Do we need safety needles?
OSHA requires employers to evaluate and use safer sharps devices where appropriate, with input from frontline staff. Many practices stock safety syringes or needles for injections.
Can you set up par levels and standing orders?
Yes. Send a month of usage and we'll set up a recurring order sized to your rooms.
How many syringes should we keep on hand?
Keep at least two weeks of usage per size, plus a buffer for your busiest days.
Ready to price syringes and needles?
Send us what you need and we'll reply with one quote, usually within a business day.
This guide is general product and purchasing information for licensed healthcare businesses. It isn't medical, legal or regulatory advice. Follow your medical director's protocols and the manufacturer's instructions.