Thinking About Opening an Eco-Friendly, Organic Hair Salon? Here’s What You Need to Know
The beauty industry is undergoing a quiet revolution—and it’s rooted in intention, wellness, and sustainability. More and more stylists and salon owners are seeking ways to align their businesses with holistic values. If you're feeling the pull to create a hair salon that’s eco-conscious, non-toxic, and mindful of both people and planet, you’re not alone. But what does it really take to build a sustainable and organic salon from the ground up?
Here are some of the most important things to consider before you take the leap.
1. Define Your Why
Before sourcing your first product or painting a single wall, get crystal clear on your “why.” Is it a commitment to health and safety? A love for clean beauty? A desire to minimize waste in the salon industry? Your mission will guide every decision you make—from your product lines to your policies to the way you market your services.
A strong foundation built on values creates a salon experience that feels good for everyone—clients, stylists, and the Earth.
2. Choose Truly Clean, Non-Toxic Products
Not all “natural” or “green” products are created equal. Be diligent about ingredient transparency. Look for brands that prioritize certified organic ingredients, avoid synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals, and back up their claims with third-party testing or certifications.
Some of our favorite clean, high-performance brands:
Innersense Organic Beauty – Known for their beautiful formulations using organic plant ingredients and essential oils.
O&M (Original & Mineral) – A salon-quality line that ditches ammonia and other harsh chemicals.
Arete – Small-batch, holistic haircare designed by stylists who care about both performance and purity.
Cult & King – Refillable, recyclable, and made with intention—this line is perfect for the eco-minimalist.
Choosing your product partners is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Look for transparency, integrity, and efficacy.
3. Rethink Salon Waste
The salon industry produces an incredible amount of waste—from foils and color tubes to hair clippings and plastics. But there are innovative ways to minimize your environmental footprint:
Partner with companies like Green Circle Salons, who help salons recycle everything from excess hair color to PPE.
Use compostable or reusable alternatives to foils and gloves.
Switch to bulk product refills and eliminate single-use containers.
Offer a refill station for clients’ favorite products.
Every small shift adds up to a more conscious business model.
4. Create a Low-Tox Space
Beyond products, your physical space matters. Think of your salon as a sanctuary—both for the people inside and the planet.
Choose low-VOC paints and flooring to protect indoor air quality.
Use energy-efficient lighting and appliances.
Add plants to naturally purify the air and bring life into your space.
Source reclaimed or sustainable furniture and décor when possible.
An eco-friendly salon should feel clean—energetically and physically.
5. Educate Your Clients (and Your Team)
The clean beauty world can be a little intimidating at first. Part of your role as an eco-conscious salon owner is to educate and inspire. Whether it’s explaining the difference between synthetic fragrance and essential oils, or showing a client how to reduce plastic waste with a product refill, every moment is an opportunity to share your values with kindness and clarity.
Bring your team into this mission. Offer ongoing education, create space for feedback, and support them in living and working more holistically too.
6. Don’t Fall for Greenwashing
Words like “clean,” “natural,” and “green” are often used in marketing without much meaning behind them. As a conscious business, you have the power to do better—and your clients will feel the difference.
Ask questions. Dig into ingredient lists. Look for certifications and clarity. Your integrity is your brand.
7. Build a Community, Not Just a Client List
When you lead with purpose, you naturally attract people who share your vision. Think of your salon as a wellness hub—not just for hair, but for whole-person care. Host clean beauty workshops, collaborate with local holistic practitioners, or offer tea from a favorite herbalist. These touches deepen connection and create loyalty that goes beyond great haircuts.
Final Thoughts
Creating an eco-friendly, sustainable, and organic salon isn’t just a trend—it’s a commitment to doing better for the health of your clients, your team, and our planet. It requires intention, patience, and a willingness to learn. But the reward is a business that truly reflects your values—and makes a difference.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore this path or ready to go all-in, you’re part of a growing movement of beauty professionals redefining what a salon can be.
Welcome to the future of haircare. It’s clean, conscious, and beautifully holistic.
Check out my video below for more tips! XO Jen
