Sustainable Salon Practices for Future Beauty Pros

Future beauty professionals have a powerful role to play in shaping a more responsible industry.

As clients grow more eco-conscious, salons and spas are finding new ways to reduce waste, conserve resources, and choose ethical products.

So whether you’re already in the workforce or thinking about enrolling in beauty school, now’s the perfect time to learn how you can be part of this important movement.

Why Sustainability Matters in Beauty

The beauty industry is unfortunately no stranger to waste. From all the single-use plastics, excess packaging, and even constant energy use, traditional practices can have a lasting negative impact on our communities and beyond.

But things are changing. Today’s clients are increasingly asking questions like:

Is this shampoo cruelty-free?
Does this salon recycle?
Are those towels washed responsibly?

Because of this, sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have.” In many places, especially the larger cities in the province, it’s becoming the standard that builds trust with our clientele and shows that you care not only about results, but also about values.

Everyday Sustainable Salon Practices

If you’re entering the beauty industry, here are smart, practical habits to adopt early which could set you apart in a crowded field:

Choose Eco-Friendly Products

Opt for brands that are biodegradable, vegan, cruelty-free, and use recyclable or refillable packaging. Many leading hair and skincare lines are shifting toward sustainability and clients will likely notice if you opt for them as well.

Conserve Water and Energy

Small steps go a long way towards reducing your footprint (and your utility bill too).

Use low-flow showerheads at shampoo stations
Turn off tools when not in use
Switch to LED bulbs and energy-efficient dryers

Think About Chemical Use and Disposal

Whenever possible, use non-toxic products or ammonia-free colour lines.

Properly dispose of salon waste, and never pour harsh chemicals down the drain. If you work at a salon, encourage your team to follow best practices too!

Reduce Waste Where You Can

Sustainable salons look for alternatives to the throwaway culture. Consider:

Reusable gloves, aprons, and tools
Digital appointments and receipts
Recycling stations for hair foils, colour tubes, and packaging

Believe it or not, even hair clippings can be collected and repurposed depending on your location.

Salon Initiatives

There are numerous initiatives out there looking to help salons meet sustainability targets, as well as promoting those practices for discerning clients.

One widespread program to consider is Green Circle Salons. This organization helps salons across North America recover their beauty waste, including hair, leftover colour, foil, and more.

As a future stylist or esthetician, initiative like this could help set your career apart.

Start Learning Eco-Conscious Beauty Now

You don’t have to wait until you graduate to make an impact. Here’s how to get started:

Ask your instructors about sustainable techniques and product options
Get familiar with brands that prioritize sustainability over disposability
During placements, observe how salons manage waste and energy and look for opportunities
Use what you learn to educate clients and stand out as a green-conscious professional

Modern College Is Preparing the Future of Sustainable Beauty

At Modern College, we believe in building beauty careers that last. Our students learn industry-ready skills, and we encourage environmentally mindful practices that support both clients and communities.

Whether you’re passionate about hairstyling, esthetics, or nail technology, your education can be your first step toward a career that’s both creative and conscious.