In a bold move towards sustainability, Scisters Salon & Apothecary in La Mesa, California, has emerged as a model for eco-conscious business practices within the beauty industry. Founded by Easton Basjec and Melissa Parker 15 years ago, the salon has successfully transformed into a low-waste operation, diverting up to 99% of its waste from landfills. Their journey exemplifies how small businesses can thrive while prioritising environmental responsibility.
A New Paradigm in Hair Care
Upon entering Scisters Salon & Apothecary, one of the first things that strikes visitors is the absence of the usual elements found in conventional salons. There are no towering shelves of plastic bottles boasting empty promises of beauty, nor the acrid smell of chemicals permeating the air. Instead, clients are welcomed by a serene atmosphere, characterised by the fragrance of natural oils and the sight of refillable containers neatly arranged on shelves.
“It’s the smell people comment on straight away,” Parker notes, highlighting the stark contrast to traditional salons. “They walk in and say: ‘It smells good in here.’ That never happens in a conventional salon.” This ambience reflects the salon’s commitment to a holistic approach to beauty, one that harmonises with the environment.
From Tradition to Transformation
The inception of Scisters was rooted in a shared vision between Basjec and Parker, who met while working in another salon. After completing their studies at a local community college, they opened their own space, initially running it like a typical boutique salon, offering a wide range of services and products from large corporate brands. However, this changed dramatically after Basjec was inspired by a documentary on the zero-waste movement, coinciding with Parker’s health struggles linked to salon chemicals.
Studies have shown that hairdressers face increased risks of respiratory issues and other health problems due to prolonged exposure to harmful substances such as formaldehyde and ammonia. Faced with these alarming realities, Parker and Basjec decided to pivot their business model to one that prioritises both health and environmental sustainability.
Rethinking Waste Management
One of the cornerstone initiatives Scisters adopted is a comprehensive refill program. They replaced traditional product offerings with their own line, Element, launched in 2019. This line is crafted in California and packaged in refillable glass and aluminium containers, allowing clients to minimise their waste. “We encourage customers to use the salon’s ‘jar library’ – a collection of donated and sanitized jars – to purchase refills,” says Parker.
In addition to promoting refillable products, the salon has also re-engineered its waste management practices. Hair clippings that were once discarded are now composted, and the salon collaborates with local waste management services to recycle foil and other materials. Sugaring has replaced waxing, utilising a compostable paste, and even the decor reflects their eco-conscious ethos, featuring second-hand furniture and fixtures.
While achieving complete zero waste may be an elusive goal, the duo acknowledges the challenges and compromises inherent in running a salon. They continue to offer hair bleaching services, which involve ammonia, but take measures to mitigate the associated health risks through advanced air filtration systems and the incorporation of air-purifying plants.
The Business Case for Sustainability
The commitment to sustainability has not only helped Scisters to reduce its environmental footprint but has also proven to be economically advantageous. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when salons faced mandatory closures, Scisters adapted by focusing on refill sales, maintaining a steady stream of income and allowing them to pay their rent when many others struggled.
“Going green has been the greatest thing we’ve done for our business financially,” Parker asserts. “We accidentally created a point of differentiation.” This sentiment is echoed by Denise Baden, a professor of sustainable business at the University of Southampton, who states that eco-friendly practices can often lead to reduced operational costs.
Inspiring Change in the Industry
Scisters’ influence extends beyond its own walls. Both Parker and Basjec actively participate in community engagements, sharing their knowledge at events such as the San Diego Zero Waste Symposium. They have also published an online guide aimed at assisting other salons in their transition towards sustainable practices.
“It’s not sustainable if we’re the only ones doing it,” Bajsec emphasises, underscoring their desire to inspire wider industry change. By demonstrating that a low-waste model is not only feasible but also profitable, they offer a blueprint for other salons to follow.
Why it Matters
Scisters Salon & Apothecary stands as a beacon for the beauty industry, exemplifying how small businesses can innovate to meet the challenges of sustainability head-on. Their journey illustrates a critical shift in consumer expectations, where environmentally responsible practices are becoming not just desirable but essential. As salons like Scisters lead the way, they pave the path for a more sustainable future in beauty, encouraging consumers and businesses alike to reconsider their impact on the environment.
