From Chemical Poisoning to Eco Innovation
Tenille Lawrence, the visionary behind Eco Foils, is not only a multi-award-winning hair stylist and educator but also the founder of the sustainable hair empire, Little Birdie Hair Co. Recognised as Australia’s Best Hair Salon by the Small Business Champion Awards in 2024 and awarded AHIA Best Eco Salon in Australia for three consecutive years (2020-2023), Tenille's commitment to sustainability is at the core of her success.
A Health Crisis That Sparked Change
Tenille’s eco journey began years ago when she faced a personal health crisis due to chemical exposure during her pregnancies, a consequence of years spent in the hairdressing industry. As a global hair educator and colourist, Tenille witnessed firsthand how hair products were formulated and the toll it took on her health. She frequently suffered from severe hives and migraines, all linked to the high levels of chemicals she was exposed to daily.
The reality of working in close proximity to hair dye for hours each day is that it can significantly impact hairdressers' health. Studies show that hairdressers are at a higher risk of developing cancer, skin conditions, miscarriages, and neurological issues. For Tenille, this risk became all too real when her chemical poisoning affected her pregnancies to the extent that during the birth of her first daughter, her placenta had turned black. This alarming experience was a turning point for Tenille, confirming that something had to change — not just for her, but for the entire industry.
A Turning Point: From Chemical Poisoning to Sustainability
Determined to live a low-tox, sustainable lifestyle, Tenille made a bold decision: she stepped away from her career as a colourist and, in 2015, launched Little Birdie Hair Co. Her belief that beautiful hair shouldn’t come at the cost of one’s health resonated with the public. Today, Little Birdie Hair Co boasts four sustainable salons, all staffed by a team passionate about protecting both the planet and the health of their clients.
The Birth of Eco Foils: A Solution for Modern Salons
It was this passion that led to the creation of Eco Foils. After witnessing the sheer volume of foil a single salon could use in a month, Tenille was driven to create a sustainable alternative. She envisioned a product that not only reduced environmental impact but also complemented the modern, stylish feel of contemporary hair salons — something that would excite stylists to use. As a company, we’re dedicated to educating our customers on how to run more sustainable businesses and manage waste responsibly.
Quality Meets Sustainability: What Makes Eco Foils Unique
“I’ve worked with so many stylists over the years, and I know how important it is to have the right quality and style when it comes to foils. But I also wanted to make sure it was good for the environment. That’s why I created Eco Foils — a brand that cares about our planet,” Tenille says.
Our Commitment to the Environment
Eco Foils are crafted from recycled aluminium using an eco-friendly production process, making them 100% recyclable. But we didn’t stop there — our packaging and shipping materials are all made from recycled, fully recyclable, or biodegradable materials. We also offset the carbon footprint of shipping our products to customers, making Eco Foils the most environmentally friendly choice on the market. Plus, for every box sold, we donate $1 to the Koala Foundation, supporting the preservation and protection of one of Australia’s most beloved animals.
Eco Foils isn’t just about delivering top-quality products; it’s about making a meaningful impact. By choosing Eco Foils, you’re contributing to a future where small changes make a big difference for our planet.