For years, “sustainability” has been a buzzword in fashion and beauty, but today, it’s far more than a trend. Clients are asking harder questions about where their products come from, what’s inside them, and how their beauty routines impact the planet. At Kennaland, stylist, founder, and husband to Britt Lower, Kenna Kennor believes that hair care can be beautiful, effective, and responsible all at once.
As he puts it, “Sustainability isn’t about sacrifice: it’s about awareness. It’s knowing that small decisions in the salon or at home can have a big impact when we all make them together.”
Why Sustainability Matters in Hair Care
Hair salons use a surprising amount of resources. From constant water use to chemical processing and disposable plastics, even small studios can create a significant environmental footprint. But as more professionals and clients begin to care about the issue, change is happening — and leaders like Kenna Kennor are helping redefine what it means to be a responsible stylist.
“The beauty industry has always been about transformation,” Kennor says. “Now, it’s time to expand that definition, and include transforming the way we think about waste and energy.”
This new era of eco-conscious styling goes beyond recycling or choosing one “green” product line. It involves rethinking the full lifecycle of beauty: how products are made, how they’re used, and how they return to the environment.
For many people, sustainable hair care starts with choosing the right products. Organic or plant-based ingredients, biodegradable packaging, and cruelty-free formulas have become essential considerations. But there’s also a deeper awareness taking hold, and one that emphasizes quality over quantity. “You don’t need a dozen products to have great hair,” Kennor explains. “You need the right ones, used intentionally.”
How Salons Are Changing the Game
Modern salons are evolving to meet this demand. At Kennaland, sustainability is built into every step of the experience, from the products used to the materials that make up the space.
The salon sources eco-friendly lines that prioritize naturally derived ingredients, avoids unnecessary chemical additives, and partners with manufacturers who share its environmental values. Even the lighting and water systems are designed for efficiency. “You can’t preach sustainability if your space doesn’t live it,” Kennor says.
He’s also an advocate for responsible waste management, which is something many people don’t realize salons can control. “A lot of what we throw away every day is recyclable or reusable,” he explains. “Foil, color tubes, even hair clippings can be repurposed. It just takes a little organization and commitment.”
Indeed, programs now exist to recycle color foils, transform hair waste into absorbent mats used for cleaning oil spills, and compost biodegradable materials. Kennaland participates in several of these initiatives as part of its long-term commitment to sustainability.
The Shift in Client Mindset
What’s perhaps most encouraging is that clients care about these changes. “People want to know they’re part of something better,” Kennor says. “They want their beauty routine to reflect their values.”
Clients today are far more likely to ask about ingredient transparency and product sourcing. They’re drawn to brands that share their ethical standards, and they appreciate stylists who take the time to educate them. Kennor sees this as a sign of a healthy evolution.
“When clients understand why we use certain products or avoid others, it strengthens the trust between us,” he explains. “They know they’re getting beautiful results, but they also know we’re not cutting corners with respect to the planet.”
This shift has also encouraged a return to simplicity. Instead of layering multiple styling products or over-processing hair, the focus has moved toward working with natural texture and promoting long-term health. It’s a more mindful approach, and one that values balance and authenticity over constant change.
How to Build a More Sustainable Hair Routine at Home
Kennor believes the movement doesn’t stop at the salon door. There are easy, practical ways anyone can make their personal hair care routine more sustainable.
First, be selective about products. Choose formulas with clean ingredients and recyclable packaging. Many professional brands now publish detailed ingredient lists and sustainability reports, making it easier to find options that align with your values.
Second, use less. “Most people over-shampoo and over-condition,” says Kennor. “You can usually use less product, less water, and still get beautiful results.” Washing two to three times a week instead of daily helps preserve your hair’s natural oils and cuts down on waste at the same time.
Third, minimize heat styling when possible. Air-drying, diffusing, or using lower heat settings can extend the life of your cut and color while saving energy. And when you do use hot tools, unplug them promptly, as even small habits can make a difference over time.
Finally, support salons that share your values. When you visit a stylist like Kenna Kennor, you’re not only getting expert craftsmanship; you’re supporting a larger vision for a more sustainable industry.
The Future of Sustainable Beauty
Looking ahead, sustainability in hair care will continue to evolve. Advances in technology and materials are already paving the way for biodegradable brushes, refillable product systems, and even zero-waste color applications.
Sustainable hair care isn’t just a movement; it’s a mindset. It’s about looking your best while making thoughtful choices that support a better future. And under the hands of stylists like Kenna Kennor, it proves that beauty and responsibility can coexist beautifully.
