8.00am: Shower time and I am completely thrown. Did I just shampoo or condition? I can’t remember and the silkiness of my hair is playing games with my mind. Smoothness of this type is reminiscent of a good condition, but surely I just lathered up? Correct. First impression noted and Unico and I (or should I say my hair) are off to a great start.
My following experiences with Unico ticked all the right boxes too; the formula was light, left my hair ultra clean and with standout shine. After offering the products to a brunette friend to test, her hair had a mirror-like reflection. It was confirmed – this is a winning trio.
The scent of the Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner is perfect for a Monday morning pick-me-up or for clearing wine-induced fog come Sunday morning, thanks to the combination of rosemary, lemon and peppermint essential oils.
The Leave-in Conditioner spray is light and absorbs rapidly, leaving no trace once my hair was dry. Those with very dry hair or who go heavy with the heat styling tools may wish it was a little heavier and more hydrating, but for a daily boost of moisture and shine it’s perfect. I even tried this out on my already styled dry hair and was thrilled when it absorbed right in without any extra heaviness or residue.
My Nan’s cool-factor went up from 95 to 97 percent when I saw the instantly recognisable modern and funky lime-green Unico product in her bathroom. When questioned, Nan raved, “Oh, I’ve had that for a while now, the Leave-in Conditioner spray is just fantastic, my hair is so soft and it gives a real shine.” Word, Nan. We all know Grandmas don’t lie.
Wanting to know more about this fantastic eco-friendly, Australian owned and made range, and where it came from, I spoke with Unico salon and product founder Sofia Basile to find out the details.
1. Unico. Interesting name. How did you come up with that one?
Yes, I think it is too, that’s why I was so attracted to it. In Italian, unico means ‘the only one’. I thought this was perfect: simple, attention grabbing, easy to remember and spell.
2. One of the things I love most about beauty products is the design/packaging. What were your thoughts behind the funky Unico products design process?
Packaging is really one of the most important factors in designing a product – nearly as important as the product itself. The consumer has to have an initial attraction to the packaging and it needs to fit in with their environment. The green is fresh, strong and reflects the eco credentials of the Unico product.
3. How long did it take from inception to final product for the Unico hair care range?
The whole process of developing Unico Formulations took about a year. From the outset, I really wanted to avoid the nasties, without compromising on performance. I believe I have succeeded with a product that performs fantastically while looking, smelling and feeling sensational.
4. You’ve fit a lot of successful achievements into your career (with three kids too), what would you say is behind your drive to achieve?
My upbringing was quite tough, although I have never felt I missed out on lots of love. I was raised by a single mum, who had a huge role in forming me into the independent adult I am today. My mother would say you can do anything you want in your life and instilled in me the drive to achieve my dreams. I truly admire her for her strength and her devotion to her children. In my mind, I sensed that I would always work for myself.
5. What achievement are you most proud of?
I’m never one to boast about my achievements, but I am very proud of my children. I have three beautiful children with my wonderful husband.
6. What advice would you have for people out there hoping to start their own beauty range?
I started considering the importance of green beauty products when I constantly suffered from dermatitis. I used a natural range and noticed a real difference on my hands. In the last decade I have seen a real movement towards eco friendly products and launched Unico Formulations when the timing was right.
7. How important was it to you that your hair care range be natural?
It was really important to me to create a natural hair care range. I truly believe natural remedies are better for us and for the world we live in. Often, natural products are more effective than products packed with nasty chemicals. The essential oils in Unico Formulations are incredibly nourishing and provide wonderful natural aromas.
8. What environmental considerations did you have in mind when creating your hair care range and packaging?
In developing Unico Formulations I wanted to reduce my carbon footprint. Supporting local and Australian owned businesses is essential, and using natural ingredients can help save our planet.
9. Between successfully running three salons and starting a hair care range, what has the biggest challenge been?
My biggest challenge is devoting enough time to both, not to mention my three little pigs…
10. Can you tell us any more about any future plans for Unico?
A styling range is also in the pipeline. I like to keep busy. Also, men’s hairpieces wholesale, toupee price.
For more information on Unico, please visit their website.
