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Healthy Nail Salon gets Certified!

The First Healthy Nail Salon in San Francisco
achieves Green Business Certification

The Upper Hand Nail Spa in Noe Valley recently made history by becoming the first California Green Business Network (CAGBN) certified Nail Salon in California. They are a trailblazing nail salon offering a healthier nail experience, and we are proud to celebrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and safer practices.

Certifying nail salons poses unique challenges due to chemical exposure risks. However, the San Francisco Environment Department administers The Healthy Nail Salons Program, which supports San Francisco’s nail salon workers and customers to reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals and improve indoor air quality. With this guidance, The Upper Hand Nail Spa was able to attain full Tier 2 Green Business Certification with the California Green Business Network. The Upper Hand Nail Spa and SF Environment have paved the way for other nail salons to attain certification through most of the 50 Green Business Programs that are part of the California Green Business Network.

Owner Ann Nguyen is committed to going green. She shared with CAGBN, “I want to use products that don’t have toxic chemicals that are harmful to my workers, customers, and myself. I want to leave a healthy environment for my children and for future generations.” In an interview with KQED, the salon was praised for having all the comforts of traditional nail salons without the ever-present chemical smell.

Are you a business that’s interested in the Green Business Program?

Green Business Certification can also help your business save money by reducing water, energy, and waste expenses. “The San Francisco Green Business and Healthy Nail Salons programs support the resiliency of small businesses while helping the City reach its sustainability and equity goals,” said Katy Tang, Director of the Office of Small Business. Learn more about certifying your business.

Want to support other Green Businesses? Search for one in your area.