How to Operate a Sustainable Salon: Going Beyond Hair Care Products

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of sustainability within the beauty industry. As a result, many salon owners are seeking ways to reduce their environmental footprint and incorporate sustainable practices into their businesses. Historically, sustainability in the salon industry was primarily focused on using eco-friendly hair care products. However, today’s salon owners recognize that operating a sustainable salon goes beyond product choices and extends to overall salon operations. In this blog post, we will discuss how to operate a sustainable salon by taking action and incorporating innovative products and tools into your daily operations, such as salon chair cleaners, Green Circle Salons, and products from Sustain Beauty Co like Ecoheads, Paper Not Foil, and Scrummi disposable salon towels, as well as the Vish Color System Management software.

The Shift from Products to Action

The salon industry’s focus on sustainability has evolved over time, moving beyond the realm of hair care products and into overall salon operations. This shift acknowledges that while eco-friendly products are important, they alone are not enough to make a salon truly sustainable. Instead, salon owners need to take a more comprehensive approach, addressing every aspect of their operations from water and energy consumption to waste management and the tools they use daily. By implementing sustainable actions and practices, salons can significantly reduce their environmental impact and appeal to the growing number of eco-conscious clients.

Innovative Products and Tools for a Sustainable Salon

Salon Chair Cleaner: An often overlooked aspect of salon sustainability is the cleaning products used to maintain a clean and healthy environment for clients. Choosing eco-friendly salon chair cleaners can help reduce the environmental impact of your salon’s cleaning routine. Look for products that are biodegradable, free from harsh chemicals, and come in recyclable packaging to contribute to a greener salon experience.

Green Circle Salons: Green Circle Salons is a company dedicated to helping salons achieve sustainability by providing a comprehensive recycling and repurposing program. By partnering with Green Circle Salons, your salon can ensure that materials like hair clippings, color tubes, and even excess hair color are diverted from landfills and properly recycled or repurposed. This partnership not only reduces waste but also demonstrates your salon’s commitment to sustainability.

Sustain Beauty Co’s Products:

a. Ecoheads: Ecoheads are innovative, water-saving showerheads designed specifically for salon use. These showerheads provide a powerful water stream while using up to 65% less water than traditional showerheads. By incorporating Ecoheads into your salon, you can conserve water, reduce your utility bills, and offer your clients an eco-friendly experience.

b. Paper Not Foil: Paper Not Foil is a sustainable alternative to traditional aluminum foil used for hair coloring. This reusable, biodegradable product is made from sustainable materials, drastically reducing waste and promoting a more eco-friendly approach to hair coloring. By incorporating Paper Not Foil into your salon practices, you demonstrate your commitment to reducing waste and protecting the environment.

c. Scrummi Disposable Salon Towels: Scrummi disposable salon towels, another offering from Sustain Beauty Co, are made from 100% natural, biodegradable materials. By using these towels in your salon, you can eliminate the need for water-intensive laundering processes associated with traditional salon towels, reducing both water and energy consumption and decreasing the use of harmful detergents.

Vish Color System Management: The Vish Color System Management is a software solution that helps salons optimize hair color formulations and track inventory, minimizing waste and reducing costs. By utilizing this software, you can ensure that your salon is using hair color products efficiently and sustainably, contributing to a more eco-friendly salon operation.

In addition to incorporating innovative products and tools, there are several sustainable practices that you can adopt to further reduce your salon’s environmental impact:

Energy Efficiency: Focus on reducing your salon’s energy consumption by investing in energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, and using energy-saving appliances. Encourage staff to turn off equipment when not in use and to unplug devices at the end of the day.

Water Conservation: In addition to installing Ecoheads, encourage staff to be mindful of water usage during shampooing and rinsing. Collect and reuse water wherever possible, such as for cleaning tasks or watering plants.

Waste Reduction: Implement recycling programs within your salon and encourage staff and clients to recycle. Provide reusable cups and water bottles for clients to reduce single-use plastic waste. Consider partnering with a local composting facility to compost hair clippings, coffee grounds, and other organic waste generated by your salon.

Sustainable Procurement: Choose products and supplies that are environmentally friendly, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced. Support local and eco-friendly suppliers and prioritize items with minimal packaging or packaging made from recycled materials.

Education and Awareness: Educate your staff and clients about the importance of sustainability in the salon industry. Share information on eco-friendly practices, products, and initiatives through social media, blog posts, and in-salon signage. Create a culture of sustainability within your salon, encouraging staff and clients to contribute ideas and participate in eco-friendly initiatives.

Operating a sustainable salon goes beyond simply using eco-friendly hair care products. By incorporating innovative tools and products like Salon Chair Cleaners, Green Circle Salons, and offerings from Sustain Beauty Co such as Ecoheads, Paper Not Foil, and Scrummi disposable salon towels, as well as the Vish Color System Management, you can significantly reduce your salon’s environmental impact. Furthermore, adopting sustainable practices in energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, procurement, and education can help create a greener salon experience for both your staff and clients. By taking action and prioritizing sustainability in your salon operations, you can contribute to a more environmentally responsible beauty industry and appeal to the growing number of eco-conscious clients.

Written by Daniel from Salon Chair Guys and the Founder of The Green Beauty Community