What Does Vegan Mean in Hair Products?

In recent years, the beauty industry has seen a significant shift toward ethical and sustainable practices, with more consumers seeking cruelty-free and vegan options. But what exactly does “vegan” mean when it comes to hair products? Understanding the distinction between vegan and non-vegan haircare can help you make more informed choices about the products you use.

Defining Vegan Hair Products

A vegan hair product means that it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. This goes beyond simply being cruelty-free [which means the product is not tested on animals] to ensure that no component in the formulation is sourced from animals. 

Common Animal-Derived Ingredients to Avoid

Many traditional haircare products contain ingredients derived from animals. Here are some common ones to look out for:

Keratin – A protein often sourced from animal hooves, feathers, or wool, used to strengthen hair.

Collagen – Derived from animal connective tissues, commonly used for hair hydration and elasticity.

Honey & Beeswax – Found in some shampoos and conditioners for their moisturising properties.

Lanolin – A waxy substance from sheep’s wool, used in conditioning treatments.

Silk Protein – Extracted from silkworms and added for its smoothing effects.

What Makes a Hair Product Truly Vegan?

For a hair product to be truly vegan, it must:

Exclude All Animal Ingredients – The product should be free from any component derived from animals or insects.

Be Cruelty-Free – While veganism focuses on ingredients, ethical vegan brands also ensure their products and ingredients are not tested on animals at any stage of production.

Use Plant-Based Alternatives – Ingredients such as plant proteins [like soy or quinoa], plant-based oils [such as argan or coconut], and botanical extracts replace traditional animal-derived components.

Why Choose Vegan Hair Products?

Ethical Considerations – Vegan products ensure that animals are not harmed or exploited in the making of haircare items.

Environmental Impact – Plant-based ingredients typically have a smaller carbon footprint compared to animal-derived ingredients.

Health Benefits – Many vegan hair products are formulated with natural, ingredients, which can be gentler on the scalp and hair.

How to Identify Vegan Hair Products

To ensure a product is truly vegan, look for certification logos such as:

 The Vegan Society

PETA’s Vegan and Cruelty-Free Certification

Leaping Bunny (for cruelty-free assurance)

Additionally, checking the ingredient list and researching the brand’s ethics can help confirm whether a product aligns with vegan principles.