Scisters Salon & Apothecary, located in La Mesa, California, is at the forefront of a transformative movement within the beauty industry, embracing sustainability and low-waste practices. Co-founders Easton Basjec and Melissa Parker have reimagined the conventional salon experience by prioritising eco-friendly operations and reducing environmental impact, a model that could redefine norms across the sector.
A Breath of Fresh Air
Upon entering Scisters, one is immediately struck by the absence of the typical salon environment. Gone are the overwhelming scents of chemical-laden products; instead, a subtle hint of bergamot and vanilla fills the air, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The salon, which has been operational for 15 years, reflects its commitment to sustainability through its minimal waste approach. The only receptacle for waste is a small basket primarily used for coffee cups and wrappers clients bring from home.
“There’s a noticeable difference in the air quality,” notes Parker. “People often comment on how pleasant it smells in here, which is not something you would experience in a traditional salon.” Scisters has diverted an impressive 99% of its waste from landfills, demonstrating that beauty and environmental responsibility can coexist.
From Conventional to Conscious
The evolution of Scisters began with a shared vision between Parker and Basjec, who met while working at another salon. Their friendship, rooted in a mutual passion for beauty, led them to establish Scisters with seven chairs in a local strip mall. Initially, the salon operated similarly to many others, offering a range of mainstream products and services. However, a pivotal moment occurred when Basjec was inspired by a documentary on the zero-waste movement, prompting a re-evaluation of their business practices.
Simultaneously, Parker faced health challenges linked to prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals commonly found in salon products. This alarming reality galvanized them to rethink their approach to beauty. “We realised that we could no longer ignore the environmental and health implications of the products we used,” Parker explains. This revelation spurred them to eliminate services that utilised harmful chemicals, such as perms, and to seek alternatives that aligned with their newfound values.
Innovating for a Sustainable Future
The duo identified a gap in the market for high-performance, eco-friendly products. To address this, they enrolled in formulation design courses and painstakingly developed their own line, Element, which launched in 2019. This innovative range features refillable glass and aluminium containers filled with ingredients like organic aloe and castor oil, aimed at providing effective hair care without the environmental burden.
Scisters has also implemented a variety of waste-reduction strategies. Hair clippings, which typically end up in landfills, are composted, while used foils are washed and reused. The salon has replaced traditional waxing with a sustainable sugaring technique that utilises a compostable paste made from sugar, water, and lemon. Even everyday operations have been optimised; clients dry their hands with washable cloths instead of disposable paper towels, and energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the space.
“Achieving zero waste is a challenging goal,” acknowledges Basjec, “but every small step we take contributes to a larger impact.” Their commitment to sustainability extends to the aesthetics of the salon, with refurbished furniture and decor sourced from second-hand outlets.
Navigating Challenges with Resilience
Despite the numerous innovations, certain compromises remain inevitable. Scisters continues to offer hair bleaching services, which involve ammonia—a chemical known for its adverse health effects. To mitigate risks, the salon employs industrial air filtration systems and maintains an abundance of air-purifying plants throughout the space.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for many businesses, but Scisters adapted by pivoting to a refill sales model, allowing them to maintain revenue while supporting their clientele during lockdowns. “Going green has not only been beneficial for the environment, but it has also strengthened our business model,” Parker asserts.
Academics like Denise Baden, a professor of sustainable business at the University of Southampton, support Scisters’ approach, noting that eco-friendly practices often lead to cost savings. “It’s a misconception that being sustainable incurs higher costs. In reality, reducing resource consumption typically lowers expenses,” she states.
Empowering the Broader Community
Parker and Basjec are passionate about sharing their knowledge and encouraging other salons to adopt similar sustainable practices. They have actively participated in local events, such as the San Diego Zero Waste Symposium, and have developed an online resource guide for salons eager to transition to low-waste operations. They envision a future where sustainable beauty is the norm rather than the exception.
“We receive numerous inquiries from other salons interested in our model,” Basjec conveys. “It’s crucial that our efforts inspire wider change within the industry.”
Why it Matters
Scisters Salon & Apothecary exemplifies a growing trend towards sustainability in the beauty sector, demonstrating that businesses can thrive while prioritising environmental responsibility. As consumer awareness of ecological issues rises, the success of Scisters offers a compelling case for other salons to rethink their practices. By fostering a culture of sustainability, the beauty industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint, paving the way for a healthier planet and inspiring future generations to embrace eco-conscious beauty solutions.
