Few people realize the extent of toxic exposures that can occur during a single visit to a salon or barbershop. Harmful chemicals found in shampoos, dyes, and other cosmetic products can cause immediate irritation and, over time, contribute to long term health effects. Stylists and cosmetologists face the greatest risk, as they are exposed to these products daily and have limited ability to control or reduce their exposure.
The Safer Salons Partnership is a financial reimbursement project piloted by the Washington Department of Ecology. Its purpose is to support stylists and barbers in adopting safer cosmetic products, helping their businesses and clients benefit from cleaner ingredients and a healthier environment. The Partnership reimburses participating salons, barbershops, and cosmetology schools for purchasing and using products that meet the project’s Level 1 or Level 2 evaluation criteria.
The Safer Salons Partnership has selected MADE SAFE® Certification as part of its Level 2 criteria, as they prohibit a broad range of harmful chemicals and require products to undergo rigorous testing to minimize health and environmental impact. The Washington Department of Ecology will review and update these criteria at least every 5 years following the project’s official launch, planned for late 2026.
The Safer Salons Partnership was established to help reduce that financial burden while expanding education within the industry. Participating businesses are eligible for up to $5,000 in reimbursements for purchasing products that meet the evaluation criteria.
We are proud to be part of this important initiative supporting change, and we believe in the Safer Salons goal to improve human and ecosystem health and drive better purchasing practices across the entire supply chain.