2026 is just around the corner, and one topic that’s only set to become more popular as we move into the New Year is sustainability. With that in mind, we caught up with Nilofer Aydinli, Managing Director at Enki Towels, whose mission is to provide salons with luxurious, comfortable, hygienic, vegan and eco-friendly towels, to ask what sustainability trends she predicts we’ll see more of in hair salons.
Refillable products – In 2026, we’ll see many salons start to invest more in refillable hair products. When it comes to shampoo and conditioner, salons will look to offer products that, once finished, clients can return to the salon and simply purchase a refill instead of buying the entire bottle and its packaging again – reducing packaging waste. We’ll also see more salons offering refill stations in collaboration with suppliers as another way to reduce product packaging waste too.
Waste minimisation – One major focus for 2026 will be salons using dedicated recycling containers for materials such as plastics, foils, and hair. This provides a great opportunity for salons to work with suppliers to return packaging and audit their overall waste. From this, they may realise the extent of their environmental impact and look at switching to compostable alternatives. At Enki, all our towels are biodegradable and compostable – they break down within 8–12 weeks and can be disposed of in a compost bin, food waste bin, or general household waste due to their ability to biodegrade even in landfill. Looking at biodegradable alternatives is a great way for salons to reduce their carbon footprint and make their salon more sustainable.
Becoming more water and energy efficient – Salons use a lot of water, and in 2026 we’ll see owners prioritising ways to be more water and energy-efficient, finding opportunities to cut costs and consumption. This could include installing LED lighting, using eco showerheads at the backwash, and reviewing towel options to reduce both water and energy usage. Disposable towels like our Enki Towels allow salons to eliminate laundry, saving money on detergent, energy and water.
Sustainable ingredients – Now more than ever, and continuing into 2026, salons are reviewing their product offerings – both retail and colour – and shifting away from harmful chemicals and harsh ingredients towards more eco-friendly, natural alternatives. Many salons have already begun to use ammonia-free colour processes and introduce vegan retail products that cater to a new clientele while being kinder to both the client’s hair and the planet.
Going digital – As the digital world continues to grow, this is a trend that will only accelerate in the years ahead. Salons will continue to embrace digital tools and move away from paper appointment books, loyalty cards and gift cards. Instead, they’ll adopt online booking systems, e-gift cards and e-loyalty programmes to reduce paper waste while streamlining their operations.
If you’re thinking about making your salon more sustainable – 2026 is the year to do it! Many salon owners fear that becoming more sustainable will be a big cost, but by incorporating more eco-conscious practices, salons can save money in the long run. There are so many benefits to becoming more sustainable – not just for the salon, but for clients, and of course, for the environment too!