In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, Scisters Salon & Apothecary in La Mesa, California, is pioneering a low-waste approach to beauty. Co-founders Easton Basjec and Melissa Parker have transformed their salon into a sustainable haven, diverting up to 99% of waste from landfills while challenging the norms of the hair care industry. Their journey illustrates not only a commitment to eco-friendliness but also a business model that thrives on innovation and responsibility.
A Fresh Approach to Hair Care
Upon entering Scisters, the absence of traditional salon trappings is striking. Gone are the ubiquitous plastic bottles and chemical-laden products. Instead, patrons are greeted by shelves filled with large refill containers of shampoo and conditioner, alongside a carefully curated selection of plants that enhance the salon’s ambience. The air is fragrant with notes of bergamot and vanilla, a stark contrast to the harsh scents typically associated with hair salons.
“It’s the smell people notice immediately,” Parker remarks. “Clients often say, ‘It smells good in here,’ which is a rarity in conventional salons.”
Since its inception 15 years ago, Scisters has evolved from a standard salon model to a leading example of sustainability in the beauty sector. The salon is not just a business; it’s a commitment to environmentally responsible practices in an industry often criticised for its ecological footprint.
The Beauty Industry’s Environmental Challenge
The hair care industry faces a significant challenge when it comes to environmental impact. According to Green Circle Salons, an organisation focused on recycling and recovery within the beauty sector, salons across North America dispose of an estimated 63,000 pounds of hair daily, alongside vast quantities of used foil and leftover hair dyes. Moreover, many products are laden with harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, which poses health risks to both clients and stylists.
Recognising this detrimental impact, Basjec and Parker have redefined their business model to ensure that beauty does not come at the expense of the planet. Their transformation is the result of a personal journey that began with a documentary about the zero-waste movement and Parker’s own health struggles linked to prolonged exposure to salon chemicals.
Innovating for Sustainability
The pivotal moment in Scisters’ journey towards sustainability came when the founders decided to scrutinise their product offerings and services. They eliminated perms due to their use of formaldehyde and moved away from mainstream brands, regardless of their green marketing claims. The products they offered were not only delivered in plastic containers but also contained chemicals that contradicted their sustainability ethos.
To meet their high standards, Basjec and Parker took to formulating their own hair care line, “Element”, launched in 2019. This line, created in a California lab, features refillable glass and aluminium containers filled with natural ingredients like organic aloe and wheat protein. They also introduced a “jar library” that allows customers to refill their products in donated glass jars, further reducing waste.
Comprehensive Waste Management Strategies
Scisters has implemented a multi-faceted approach to waste management. The salon collaborates with local waste companies to compost hair clippings, a practice that has drawn interest for its innovative applications in environmental remediation. They recycle foils used in hair treatments and have swapped traditional waxing for a more sustainable sugaring method, which utilises a compostable paste.
The founders have also made significant changes to their energy consumption, opting for LED lighting and eco-friendly shampoo sprayers. Even the salon’s decor is sourced sustainably, featuring antique furniture and second-hand items.
While they acknowledge that achieving absolute zero waste is impractical, Parker and Basjec have found ways to mitigate their environmental impact. They ship their minimal plastic waste—approximately two boxes annually—to Green Circle Salons for proper processing, demonstrating a commitment to responsible disposal.
The Business Advantage of Going Green
The transition to sustainable practices has proven financially advantageous. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Scisters pivoted to refill sales, providing a lifeline that allowed them to maintain revenue while many other businesses struggled. “Going green has been the best decision we made for our business financially,” Parker explains. “We inadvertently created a unique selling point.”
Denise Baden, a sustainable business professor at the University of Southampton, supports the notion that eco-friendly practices do not necessarily equate to higher costs. “In fact, often it’s the reverse,” she states, highlighting that reducing energy and water consumption can significantly lower operational expenses.
Inspiring Change Beyond Their Walls
Parker and Basjec are also committed to inspiring other salons to adopt sustainable practices. They frequently participate in community events, such as the San Diego Zero Waste Symposium, and have published a comprehensive online guide for fellow salon owners interested in reducing waste. Their mission is clear: sustainability should not be an exclusive endeavour.
“We receive inquiries from other salons all the time,” Bajsec notes. “It’s not sustainable if we’re the only ones doing it.”
Why it Matters
Scisters Salon & Apothecary epitomises the potential for small businesses to effect change within their industries. By prioritising sustainability, they not only enhance their operational resilience but also serve as a model for others in the beauty sector. As environmental concerns continue to rise, the success of Scisters demonstrates that profitability and ecological responsibility can coexist, paving the way for a more sustainable future in hair care and beyond.
