Nestled in the heart of La Mesa, California, Scisters Salon & Apothecary is redefining the beauty industry through its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Co-founders Easton Basjec and Melissa Parker have transformed their salon into a beacon of low-waste practices, eschewing conventional beauty products in favour of eco-friendly alternatives. With a focus on health, sustainability, and community engagement, Scisters exemplifies how small businesses can lead the charge towards a greener future.
A Transformative Journey into Sustainable Beauty
Upon entering Scisters, patrons are immediately struck not by the usual array of plastic products, but by a refreshing absence of synthetic scents and chemical-laden products. Instead, the salon features refill stations for shampoo and conditioner, lush greenery, and a unique atmosphere devoid of the overpowering odours typical of many salons. “It’s the smell people comment on straight away,” remarks co-founder Melissa Parker. “They walk in and say: ‘It smells good in here.’ That never happens in a conventional salon.”
Established 15 years ago, Scisters has evolved from a traditional salon into a pioneering low-waste establishment, reportedly diverting up to 99% of its waste from landfills. This shift is particularly significant in a beauty industry notorious for its environmental footprint; according to Green Circle Salons, North American salons collectively send an astonishing 63,000 pounds of hair to landfills daily, along with substantial amounts of foil and chemical dyes.
From Conventional to Conscious
The journey towards sustainability began with a critical examination of the salon’s operations. Basjec’s awakening came after viewing a documentary on the zero-waste movement, which prompted an introspective look at the beauty sector’s environmental impact. Concurrently, Parker faced health issues linked to chemical exposure in traditional salon products, a frightening prospect that propelled them towards change.
“We always had the planet in mind,” Parker reflects, “but never to the extent that it is now.” The duo decided to eliminate harmful treatments, such as perms that release formaldehyde, and to stop stocking large corporate brands, even those marketed as sustainable. Their quest for alternatives led them to develop their own product line, Element, which debuted in 2019. This line features refillable glass and aluminium containers filled with ethically sourced ingredients, thus embodying their commitment to both performance and environmental responsibility.
Innovative Practices and Waste Reduction
Scisters has reimagined its entire waste management approach. Bajsec engaged the local waste company to facilitate the composting of hair clippings, while the salon began to recycle foils rather than sending them to landfills. Their hair removal service transitioned from waxing to sugaring, using a compostable paste that eliminates plastic waste. Furthermore, the salon has adopted energy-efficient practices, such as installing LED lighting and utilising eco-friendly sprayers at shampoo stations.
Despite their progressive initiatives, challenges remain. While Scisters still offers hair bleaching—which involves ammonia, a known irritant—Parker and Bajsec employ robust air filtration systems and maintain an abundance of indoor plants to mitigate the effects. They acknowledge the impossibility of achieving absolute zero waste but strive to minimise their environmental impact wherever feasible. Waste that cannot be avoided is shipped to Green Circle Salons for responsible processing.
Financial Viability of Going Green
Transitioning to sustainable practices initially required significant investment; however, Parker asserts that this shift has proven financially advantageous. “Overall, it’s actually less expensive. We’re not outsourcing to other beauty brands. We’re mindful about systems,” she states. The Covid-19 pandemic, which forced many salons to close, became a pivotal moment for Scisters. They adapted by offering refill services to clients, maintaining a revenue stream that allowed them to weather the crisis while many competitors struggled.
Denise Baden, a professor of sustainable business at the University of Southampton, affirms the financial viability of eco-friendly practices. “It’s a misunderstanding that to be eco-friendly, you have to spend more money. In fact, usually, it’s the reverse,” she explains. By reducing energy and water consumption, salons can enhance their profitability while contributing to environmental preservation.
Educating the Community and Inspiring Change
Parker and Bajsec not only advocate for their clients to adopt sustainable habits but also strive to inspire fellow salon owners. They actively participate in community events, such as the San Diego Zero Waste Symposium, and have published an online guide for salons looking to transition to greener practices. Their vision extends beyond Scisters; they aspire to place their Element products in other salons, fostering a network of low-waste beauty providers.
“We get calls from other salons all the time,” Bajsec notes. “It’s not sustainable if we’re the only ones doing it.” This collaborative spirit is essential in driving collective action towards sustainability within the beauty industry.
Why it Matters
The initiatives at Scisters Salon & Apothecary illustrate a powerful paradigm shift within the beauty industry. By prioritising sustainability and health, Basjec and Parker are not only transforming their own business but also serving as a model for others. Their journey underscores that environmental consciousness and commercial success are not mutually exclusive; in fact, they can be mutually reinforcing. As more businesses adopt similar practices, the potential for significant positive impact on both the environment and community health becomes increasingly tangible, paving the way for a greener future in beauty.
