The countdown to Christmas has begun and the excitement for the perfect hair ‘sleigh’ is officially on. But while December brings sparkle, it also brings a 30% hike in waste across the UK.
The Hidden Cost of Hair Care
Hair salons can be surprisingly resource intensive. Large volumes of water, nonrecyclable product packaging, chemical-heavy dyes, cotton or microfiber towels that require high energy laundering. All of these contribute to carbon emissions and take a toll on the environment. Yet, most of it goes unnoticed — both by consumers and industry members.
The beauty industry as a whole contributes significantly to environmental issues through single-use plastics, energy-heavy equipment, chemically laden products, and wasteful water usage.
The challenge is clear: How can we continue to enjoy personal care without placing such a heavy burden on the planet?
At Hair in the City, sustainability isn’t a seasonal gimmick or an add-on — it’s the heart of the business. From reclaimed interiors to biodegradable towels and eco-certified products, the salon is quietly showing how a lower-impact beauty industry is possible.
Sustainable Change, One Small Decision at a Time
Louise Wilson, the salon director, and her team did not go for headline grabbing gimmicks. They focus on smart, small steps that add up without compromising on the high-end salon feel.
They swapped out old taps to energy efficient Ecoheads taps, which slash water and energy use by up to 65%. A brilliant move to save water and money.
Cotton towels were replaced with biodegradableScrummi towels, which break down naturally in around 100 days, meaning no more laundry emissions and chemical runoff.
Instead of buying new, the furniture and fittings were sourced second-hand from Glasgow Wood Recycling. Not only does this look great but it also gives new life to reclaimed materials. A huge win for a circular economy.
Louise’s trusted go-to haircare range and the star product of the salon is a B Corp certified brand Keune which is known for recyclable packaging, ethical sourcing, and reduced carbon emissions. Now, you don’t have to choose between planet and gorgeous hair.
These small steps that contribute to an eco-friendlier business reflect a broader mindset that is becoming increasingly important across all industries.
“Being sustainable isn’t about being perfect it’s about making better choices where you can. Once we started, it became part of the salon’s ethos.” – Louise Wilson
Busting the Myths of Sustainable Beauty
Louise is aware of the misconceptions that still exist around eco-friendly products and practices in beauty. She said that: “A big one (misconception) is that sustainable means substandard – that if you’re choosing eco-friendly, you have to compromise on results or luxury. That’s just not true. Our towels work better. Our water system feels better. The products are premium. Clients don’t lose out, they gain.”
It’s not just the planet the team is thinking about — it’s people, too. The salon went an extra mile by creating a private styling space. This is designed for anyone with anxiety or sensory needs, offering a quieter, calmer environment. This thoughtful addition reinforces the idea that true sustainability is about looking after everyone’s wellbeing.
The salon is part of a broader movement to rethink consumption and promote circularity. It demonstrates how businesses—small or large—can actively reduce their environmental impact. It’s also a space where students can see sustainability in action and be inspired to make similar choices in their own lives.
And while the services offered are top tier, the mission is what sets this salon apart. It’s not about pushing products or promotions—it’s about participating in a future where selfcare doesn’t cost the Earth.
Sustainability is not just a trend; it is the future of beauty.
Hi, I Rashmii Sharma (she/her). I am thrilled to contribute to the Strathclyde Telegraph as a sustainability writer. I am also the founder and President of the Sustainability Society (SITY) at the Strath Union. You can become a member of the society for free and follow us on Instagram @strathsustainability. When I am not digging up policies or interviewing eco-innovators, I love trying hands at complicated recipes and capturing the scenic beauty of Scotland.
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