In Memory of Peter Francis: A Pioneer in Organic and Sustainable Beauty
Mr Peter Francis was not only a successful World Master Hairdresser, Trichologist and Organic Formulator, he was a loving husband, father, brother and family man. An active community member, he was passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.
Peter was a visionary whose contributions extended far beyond the founding of Abach茅 Organics and Plantworx. Peter's journey began humbly as a teenage apprentice hairdresser (he won South Australian Junior Chamber of Commerce "Apprentice of the Year Award" at 20), but his passion and talent quickly propelled him to become a global pioneer in certified organic haircare and skincare. His story is one of unwavering dedication, pioneering spirit, and an unrelenting commitment to sustainability and health.
In the mid-1980s, Peter's passion for the science of hair and scalp health led him to trichology, earning the world鈥檚 highest honour in the field, the Ronald Salinger Award. His expertise and innovative spirit saw him rise to become a world-class stylist and an internationally awarded hairdressing educator. As the Australian Artistic Director for Pivot Point International, he shared his knowledge globally, influencing the beauty industry profoundly.
Peter with his wife Chess and daughters, Paris and Susa in 2007
Peter鈥檚 career took a transformative turn with the birth of his daughters in the late 1990s. His concern for the synthetic chemicals used in conventional hair and skincare products drove him to create healthier alternatives. This concern, combined with his trichological expertise, led to the birth of Eco.kid Organics in 2002, offering botanical products safe for children and environmentally sustainable. His commitment to sustainability saw Eco.kid become one of the first haircare brands to achieve certified organic status under the Ecocert standard.
His passion for plant-based formulations deepened as he studied traditional uses of indigenous Australian, Amazonian, and African plants, integrating these into his products. This led to the launch of Abach茅 Organics in 2014, the world鈥檚 first haircare brand to achieve COSMOS Organic Certification. His innovative formulations earned Abach茅 Organics the prestigious Green Formulations Award for sustainable beauty.
In his later years, Peter immersed himself in the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, collaborating with experts in India to blend traditional plant-based medicine with modern science. This period marked a significant evolution in his formulating approach, leading to the creation of Plantworx Organics upon his return to South Australia.
Peter's work was not just about beauty but about creating products that were safe, sustainable, and beneficial for both people and the planet. 聽His collaboration with Professor Colin Raston and the ARC Training Centre for Green Chemistry in Manufacturing exemplified his dedication to advancing green and sustainable chemistry.
In 2023, he began collaborating with Professor Christopher Sweeney and the South Australian immunoGENomics Cancer Institute (SAiGENCI) for a plant-based skin formulation to protect skin from the damaging effects of radiation from both sun exposure and radiation given to treat cancers.
Sadly, Peter passed away on 23 May 2024 following a short battle with cancer.
Peter's legacy is a testament to his extraordinary vision, passion, and commitment to making a positive impact. His pioneering work in plant-based medicine and sustainable beauty continues to inspire and drive forward the quest for healthier, more sustainable living.
To honour Peter's memory and legacy, his family invite you to efforts he championed in the field of plant-based anti-cancer medicine.
100% of all funds raised will be directed to SAiGENCI researchers to support scientific research to advance Peter鈥檚 passion to develop skin-care products which will help protect people from damaging effects of radiation.
Please help save lives by making a tax-deductible donation today.
100% of your gift will support leading-edge cancer research, which will lead to better outcomes for patients with cancer, and their families.