Nestled in the heart of La Mesa, California, Scisters Salon & Apothecary has emerged as a beacon of sustainable beauty. Founded by Easton Basjec and Melissa Parker, this innovative salon is redefining industry standards by committing to a zero-waste model while maintaining profitability. Their journey showcases how a small business can harmoniously blend eco-conscious practices with exceptional client service.
A New Approach to Hair Care
Upon entering Scisters, patrons are greeted by an unexpected sensory experience. Gone are the rows of traditional plastic bottles and the overwhelming scent of chemical products. Instead, the salon features large refillable containers of shampoo and conditioner, alongside lush houseplants that enhance the inviting atmosphere. “It’s the smell people comment on straight away,” Parker observes. “They walk in and say: ‘It smells good in here.’ That never happens in a conventional salon.”
Since its inception 15 years ago, Scisters has grown from a typical salon into a leader in the low-waste movement, successfully diverting up to 99% of its waste from landfills. This transformation was spurred by Basjec’s exposure to the zero-waste philosophy and Parker’s personal health challenges linked to salon chemicals.
The Shift Towards Sustainability
Initially, Scisters operated like many other boutique salons, offering a wide array of services and products, including those marketed as sustainable. However, the turning point for Basjec and Parker came when they reassessed the environmental impact of their operations. The alarming statistics about the beauty industry’s waste—particularly the estimated 63,000 pounds of hair sent to landfills daily across North America—prompted them to rethink their practices.
After attending business school together, the duo began to explore alternative products that aligned with their values. However, finding suitable replacements proved challenging, leading them to develop their own product line, Element, launched in 2019. Made in California and packaged in refillable glass and aluminium containers, Element prioritises transparency and sustainability, featuring ingredients like organic aloe and wheat protein.
Innovative Waste Management
Scisters’ commitment to reducing waste extends far beyond product offerings. The salon has implemented several innovative strategies to minimise its environmental footprint. By collaborating with local waste management companies, Basjec successfully advocated for the composting of hair clippings—a material often overlooked in recycling efforts. They also recycle foils and have substituted traditional waxing with sugaring, a method that utilises a compostable paste.
In an effort to further diminish waste, the salon utilises reusable cloths in the bathroom and has invested in energy-efficient LED lighting. Despite some unavoidable compromises—such as the continued use of hair bleach—Scisters actively mitigates potential harm through advanced air filtration systems and strategically placed air-purifying plants.
Financial Viability of Eco-Friendly Practices
The financial implications of Scisters’ sustainable approach have been notably positive. Transitioning to eco-friendly practices involved an initial investment; however, Parker asserts that the long-term benefits are clear. “Overall, it’s actually less expensive. We’re not outsourcing to other beauty brands. We’re mindful about systems,” she explains. This strategic focus became especially crucial during the Covid-19 pandemic, when Scisters pivoted to refill sales, thereby maintaining revenue and supporting their business when many competitors faltered.
Denise Baden, a professor of sustainable business at the University of Southampton, confirms that eco-friendly practices can indeed enhance profitability. “It’s a misunderstanding that to be eco-friendly, you have to spend more money. In fact, usually, it’s the reverse,” she states, highlighting the potential for salons to reduce costs through energy and water conservation.
Empowering Others in the Industry
Scisters is not just focused on its own success; it aims to inspire other salons to adopt similar sustainable practices. Both Basjec and Parker actively engage in community outreach, participating in local events like the San Diego Zero Waste Symposium and offering guidance through online resources. Their goal is to demonstrate that the principles of low waste can be replicated across the industry.
“We get calls from other salons all the time,” Bajsec reveals. “It’s not sustainable if we’re the only ones doing it.” Their dedication to collaboration underscores a broader vision for a more sustainable beauty industry.
Why it Matters
The journey of Scisters Salon & Apothecary exemplifies the potential for small businesses to lead the charge towards sustainability, proving that environmental responsibility and financial success can coexist. As more consumers become aware of their ecological footprint, the demand for sustainable practices in the beauty sector will only grow. Scisters not only sets a precedent for salons worldwide but also encourages a shift in consumer behaviour, fostering a culture of conscientious beauty that prioritises both the planet and personal well-being.
