When Larissa and I first started on our vegetarian journey in 2013, we quickly realized that being vegan and vegetarian is about so much more than what’s on our plates. It’s about showing kindness and compassion toward all living beings and the planet we share. This principle seeped into every aspect of our lives, including the clothing we wear and the household and personal products we use…even shampoo!
Vegan shampoo brands are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. They’re made with animal-free ingredients and are designed to be healthier for your hair. Unlike traditional shampoo, which often contains animal-derived ingredients and harsh chemicals, vegan shampoo contains natural and plant-based ingredients that are gentle on your scalp and hair.
Choosing the best vegan shampoo helps improve the health of your hair and supports your overall well-being. These shampoos can leave your hair soft, clean, and strong without the use of ingredients that may irritate your skin or cause damage over time. Plus, many vegan shampoos come in eco-friendly packaging which reduces the amount of plastic waste and cuts down on the use of synthetic chemicals, making them better for the environment.
You can listen to us discuss cruelty-free vegan shampoos here or continue reading for a high-level overview. Please note that the podcast episode below was recorded in 2019. This article has been updated since then to ensure more current information.
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What Makes Shampoo Vegan?
Shampoo is considered vegan when it contains no animal-derived ingredients and hasn’t been tested on animals. Traditional shampoos often use ingredients like keratin (from animal hair or horns), honey, or silk proteins.
Vegan shampoo, on the other hand, uses plant-based ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or aloe vera, which are just as effective at nourishing your hair.
It’s also important to note that vegan shampoo is free of animal by-products. This means no hidden animal-based ingredients like gelatin, glycerin, and certain types of fatty acids, all of which can be derived from animals. Instead, they use natural, sustainable alternatives to provide the same benefits without ethical or environmental concerns.
Not only is vegan shampoo better for animals, but it’s often formulated without synthetic chemicals or harsh ingredients. That means you can wash your hair without worrying about things like sulfates, parabens, and mineral oil, which are common in traditional shampoo and can be damaging to both your hair and scalp.
With vegan options, you’re opting for a gentler, cleaner approach to hair care.
Benefits of Vegan Shampoo for Different Hair Types
One of the best things about vegan shampoo is that it works well for a wide range of hair types, making it a great option for almost anyone. Whether you have dry hair, oily hair, curly hair, or color-treated hair, you’ll likely find a vegan shampoo brand that can help improve your hair’s condition while being kinder to your scalp and the environment.
Dry Hair
For those with dry hair, vegan shampoo enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter is excellent for restoring moisture and preventing further dryness. These ingredients help hydrate your hair and leave it feeling soft and smooth without weighing it down or leaving a greasy residue. Using a vegan shampoo designed for increasing moisture can help restore your hair’s natural moisture balance, leaving it healthier and more manageable.
Oily Hair
If you have oily hair, you’ll benefit from vegan shampoo that contains tea tree oil or avocado oil, both of which help balance oil production without stripping hair of its natural oils. This allows you to keep your scalp fresh and clean but not overly dry. The best vegan shampoos for oily hair will cleanse thoroughly without clogging pores or causing irritation.
Curly Hair
Curly hair often needs extra moisture and nourishment to keep curls defined and frizz-free. Vegan shampoo that is free from synthetic chemicals and contains plant-based ingredients like jojoba oil or aloe vera is perfect for locking in moisture. These shampoos help keep curls soft, bouncy, and manageable without the use of harsh chemicals that can leave curls dry or frizzy.
Color-Treated Hair
If you color your hair, you know how important it is to use products that are gentle and color-safe. Many vegan shampoos are free from harsh chemicals like sulfates that can strip color and leave hair dry. Instead, they use natural ingredients that cleanse gently and help maintain the vibrancy of your color while keeping your hair healthy.
Sensitive Scalp
For people with a sensitive scalp or sensitive skin, the absence of harsh chemicals in vegan shampoos is a big plus. Many vegan options are free from irritants like synthetic fragrances and sulfates, making them a great choice for reducing itchiness or inflammation. Ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile are often used in these shampoos to soothe and calm the scalp, making your hair-washing experience more comfortable.
Choosing the right vegan shampoo for your hair type will help keep your hair healthy while avoiding harsh chemicals and animal-derived ingredients that may cause damage or irritation. Plus, you’ll be helping the environment by supporting products that are better for the planet.
Vegan Shampoo versus Traditional Shampoo
Choosing between vegan shampoo and traditional shampoo comes down to more than just liking one scent over another. Key differences between them can impact both your hair’s health and the environment and animals. Let’s explore how these vegan and traditional shampoos compare in terms of ingredients, benefits, and overall impact.
1. Ingredients
One of the biggest differences between vegan shampoo and traditional shampoo is the ingredients. Traditional shampoos often contain animal-based ingredients such as keratin, gelatin, and silk proteins. They may also contain harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and mineral oils that can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, or even damaged hair.
In contrast, vegan shampoos are made with plant-based ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil, and jojoba oil, which are much gentler on your hair and scalp. These ingredients provide natural nourishment without the use of synthetic chemicals or harmful preservatives. Vegan shampoos are also free from animal-derived ingredients, which makes them a great choice for anyone concerned about the ethical and environmental impact of their beauty products.
2. Hair Health
Another significant difference lies in the way each shampoo type affects your hair’s health. Traditional shampoo often relies on artificial ingredients to create the illusion of smooth, shiny hair. However, these ingredients can build up on your scalp over time, leading to clogged hair follicles, scalp irritation, and even hair thinning.
On the other hand, vegan shampoo nourishes your hair with natural ingredients that promote long-term hair health. Without the harsh chemicals found in traditional formulas, vegan shampoo helps maintain your hair’s natural moisture balance, which may result in stronger, softer, healthier hair over time. Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and Pro-Vitamin B5 are commonly used to repair and protect your hair from damage while supporting hair growth and reducing hair breakage.
3. Environmental Impact
When it comes to the environment, vegan shampoo has a clear advantage. Many traditional shampoo brands come in plastic packaging, contributing to the growing issue of plastic waste. Additionally, the production of animal-based ingredients used in traditional shampoo often has a significant environmental footprint, contributing to deforestation and excessive water use.
In contrast, many vegan shampoos are committed to reducing their environmental impact by using sustainable packaging options such as 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, or alternatives to liquid shampoo, like shampoo bars. These products are often produced with Earth-friendly ingredients, ensuring a more sustainable approach to hair care. By choosing vegan shampoos, you’re helping your hair and making a positive impact on the environment.
4. Ethics
One of the main reasons people switch to vegan shampoo involves ethical concerns. Traditional shampoo often contains animal-derived ingredients and is tested on animals, raising concerns about cruelty and exploitation in the beauty industry. Vegan shampoo, on the other hand, is cruelty-free, meaning it is not tested on animals and doesn’t contain any animal-based ingredients.
For individuals who care about animal welfare, choosing vegan-friendly shampoo aligns with their values. These shampoos are certified cruelty-free by organizations like PETA or Leaping Bunny, ensuring that no animals were harmed during their production.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Vegan Shampoo
When choosing the best vegan shampoo, it’s important to look for one that contains natural, plant-based ingredients. These key ingredients are gentle on your scalp, promote hair health, and can work wonders for various hair types. Here are some of the top ingredients to look for.
1. Coconut Oil
A favorite ingredient in many vegan beauty products, coconut oil is known for its deep moisturizing properties. It helps hydrate dry hair and adds shine without leaving it greasy. It’s rich in fatty acids, which nourish the scalp and help repair damaged hair by penetrating the hair shaft. If you’re looking to restore luscious locks and reduce frizzy hair, shampoo containing coconut oil is a great choice.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Ideal for those with oily hair or a sensitive scalp, tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help cleanse the scalp and reduce dandruff. It’s also great for balancing oil production without drying out your hair. This makes it perfect for keeping your scalp clean and healthy.
3. Jojoba Oil
Another excellent natural moisturizer, jojoba oil mimics the natural oils your scalp produces. It helps maintain moisture balance, making it perfect for dry hair and curly hair. This ingredient is commonly used in vegan shampoo because it leaves hair feeling soft and smooth without the need for chemical additives. It promotes a healthy scalp and protects hair strands from damage.
4. Shea Butter
Shea butter is a powerful ingredient for deeply nourishing damaged hair or dry hair. It’s packed with vitamins and fatty acids that help to repair and strengthen hair, leaving it soft and hydrated. Shea butter also protects hair from environmental damage, which can be particularly helpful for color-treated hair.
5. Pro-Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
Known for its ability to lock in moisture and add shine, Pro-Vitamin B5 strengthens the hair cuticles and helps prevent breakage. It protects from heat styling and environmental damage, while also promoting hair growth and keeping hair soft and strong.
6. Aloe Vera
If you have a sensitive scalp or struggle with irritation, aloe vera is a gentle, soothing ingredient that can help calm inflammation. It’s also incredibly moisturizing, making it perfect for anyone with dry hair or those looking for a natural way to soothe a dry, itchy scalp.
7. Avocado Oil
Rich in vitamins and nutrients, avocado oil nourishes and strengthens your hair from the inside out. It’s especially beneficial for damaged hair as it helps to repair and protect hair strands. This oil is often used in vegan hair care products because it promotes overall hair health while being lightweight enough for all hair types.
8. Cocoa Butter and Mango Butter
These butters are loaded with essential nutrients that help soften and smooth frizzy hair while providing deep hydration. They work well for both dry hair and curly hair, helping to define curls and maintain moisture. Plus, they’re excellent for promoting luscious locks without any animal-based ingredients.
9. Lab-Crafted Vegan Collagen Peptides
A cutting-edge ingredient in some vegan shampoos, these biomimetic collagen peptides mimic natural hair proteins to strengthen and repair damaged strands. This is especially beneficial for color-treated or chemically-treated hair, providing extra protection and boosting hair health.
10. Plant-Based Proteins and Amino Acids
These ingredients help strengthen the protein in hair, which is essential for maintaining strong hair strands. They’re especially beneficial for damaged or chemically treated hair, as they help to repair hair structure and improve elasticity.
Using shampoo made with these natural plant-based ingredients will help you avoid harsh chemicals and promote healthier hair. Plus, choosing products with Earth-friendly ingredients helps protect the environment.
10 Vegan Shampoo Brands We Love!
Here are ten amazing vegan shampoo brands (in no particular order).
1. Jason Volumizing Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner
The Jason brand has shared quite a journey with us. Larissa swears by their Volumizing Lavender shampoo and conditioner for natural bounce and fullness. I don’t use this shampoo very often (we’ll get to my favorite in a bit), but Larissa loves it.
So here’s the cool backstory on the brand. The folks at Jason decided to make waves in the personal care industry back in 1959, right around when the world was busy bopping to rock ‘n roll. They said, “Thanks, but no thanks” to heavy-duty chemicals used by the big companies in the health and beauty products industry.
In true California spirit, they decided to do things their way, focusing on simple, safe, and gentle ingredients. Imagine this: sunshine, rolling waves, and a mellow vibe, all bottled up into a shampoo. Pretty rad, right (yeah, I said “rad”).
This Volumizing Lavender shampoo and conditioner from Jason is just the ticket for those with fine hair (not me!) that’s crying out for some va-va-va-voom. If your hair’s feeling a bit lifeless and in need of a natural lift, giving Jason a whirl might just be a game-changer. Your hair will be doing the happy dance in no time!
Volume shampoo and conditioner for men and women is completely sulfate free, paraben free and vegan.
2. Lush Big Shampoo
Next on our list is a brand that needs little introduction: Lush. Before the pandemic I had a tradition of visiting the Lush store every three weeks when I went to the mall for my haircut. One of my delightful discoveries from these trips is Big Shampoo, which I absolutely adore.
What makes Big Shampoo stand out is its unique blend of ingredients. The awesome smell is the first thing you’ll notice, followed by the way it feels in your hands (because it’s over 50% sea salt). This isn’t just for novelty; sea salt is excellent for adding volume and reducing grease in hair.
But before you worry about your hair feeling like it might after a swim in the ocean, know that this shampoo combines the salt with enriching coconut oil, revitalizing citrus juices, and a seaweed infusion. The result? A shampoo that not only forms a satisfying lather but also leaves hair feeling remarkably clean. It even manages to cleanse away the chlorine after my pool laps at the gym.
Lush’s website further highlights the brand’s appealing qualities. Notably, they show their support for diversity and inclusion with a dedicated tab for Pride Month.
They also have an entire section labeled “Ocean Inspired Faves,” showcasing their commitment to environmental themes. One particular product, “Shark Fin Soap,” makes a statement without any harm to sharks. While currently sold out, this soap’s proceeds went to the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation, which fights to protect significantly declining shark populations.
We’re not the only ones who appreciate Lush’s efforts. Members of our community, the Peas and Carrots Society, have also voiced their support. Chantal B. pointed out that Lush is proactive in reducing waste, as they allow customers to bring back empty containers for refills. E.L Bedouh echoed this sentiment, stating, “I think cruelty-free should include waste-free. How many animals die every day because of plastic in the water?”
3. Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Shampoo
As a brand, Paul Mitchell has been paving the way against animal testing since as early as 1980. The company proudly mentions on its website that it was the first professional beauty company to publicly adopt this stance. Fast forward nearly 40 years, and this commitment to our furry friends remains a cornerstone of their ethos.
Recently, my hairstylist recommended their products because of my frequent visits to the pool. Following this advice, I decided to give it a shot and picked up their Awapuhi shampoo…and loved it!
In particular, I love the refreshing ginger tea fragrance. Also, the assurance that the shampoo is free from harmful parabens gives me peace of mind. And, if you’re concerned with maintaining color treatments, these products are also color-safe–a definite plus in my book.
4. Dr. Bronner’s
In the frequently asked questions section of their website, Dr. Bronner’s shares that all of their products sold in the U.S. and Canada are Certified Vegan except their organic lip balms and organic body balms, which contain organic beeswax. They proudly hold the “Leaping Bunny” certification, a well-known emblem for cruelty-free products. To learn more about what this certification entails, check out our past podcast episode “Cruelty-Free 101.”
The brand’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap is incredibly versatile as it is suitable for use on the body, hair, dishes, floors, and even pets!
One of our Peas and Carrots group members, Health Coach Darryl Roberts, shared a video from Dr. Bronner’s YouTube Channel demonstrating how to use their castile soap for bathing dogs. However, he also warned to exercise caution when it comes to cats. Some of the essential oils found in some of Dr. Bronner’s shampoos could potentially be harmful to our feline friends.
5. Costco’s Kirkland Brand Shampoo and Conditioner
The Kirkland brand of shampoo and conditioner, available at Costco, was mentioned in our Peas and Carrots Facebook group during a discussion on shampoo.
While the product packaging I came across online didn’t directly state that it’s cruelty-free, Kirkland has made a public assertion that none of their products or suppliers engage in animal testing.
However, while Kirkland’s shampoo and conditioner can boast being 100% vegan, this isn’t the case for all of their products. It’s always important to check the ingredients list to confirm a product’s vegan status.
- Salon Formula Moisture Shampoo
- 33.8 Oz & Conditioner 33.8 Oz
6. Acure Curiously Clarifying Lemongrass Shampoo
Acure Curiously Clarifying Lemongrass Shampoo is another product worth mentioning. Acure’s website is relatively straightforward, functioning primarily as a shopping portal with a brief company biography. They are committed to providing performance-driven hair care products free from potentially harmful substances such as parabens, silicones, petrolatum, mineral oil, and sulfates.
With both vegan and cruelty-free certifications, Acure stands by its ethical and health-conscious values. Besides the company’s website, their range of hair, skin, and body care products can also be found on Amazon and in Target stores.
- Infused with lemongrass.
- Gentle enough for everyday cleansing.
- Vegan, sulfate free, paraben Free, Cruelty Free.
7. Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo
Next, let’s talk about Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo. Giovanni’s been in the game since 1979, so they know a thing or two about hair care. Overall, they’re a cruelty-free brand, which is awesome. But not every product in their lineup is 100% vegan. Their Magnetic Shampoo, Conditioner, Power Treatment Styling Gel, and Styling Wax are exceptions to the vegan rule, according to their website.
Still, they’ve got a bunch of products with organic ingredients and they steer clear of some not-so-great stuff. You won’t find any parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, DEA, formaldehyde, or glycol in their products. Giovanni is definitely worth checking out!
8. Sun Bum Revitalizing Shampoo
Larissa and I use Sun Bum sunblock almost every day when we walk the dogs. Little did we know they also have a shampoo! Here’s the lowdown on their Revitalizing Shampoo: “This everyday hydrating hair wash combines Coconut Oil, Banana, and Sunflower Seed oil for smooth, manageable hair. It’s a vegan blend that fights frizz, repairs damage, and restores moisture. It’s perfect for all hair types.”
This shampoo’s got all the good stuff and it’s vegan as well as gluten-, cruelty-, and paraben-free.
9. TREsemme’s Fluid Smooth Shampoo
TRESemmé’s Fluid Smooth shampoo is inspired by salon protein waters and enhanced with Niacinamide and COCO-PROTEINIZE. It infuses your hair with high shine and natural fluidity, resulting in silky smooth strands.
Fluid Smooth shampoo stands out because it contains 0% sulfates, silicones, parabens, dyes, and DMDM Hydantoin. It’s also 99.9% biodegradable and is PETA-certified cruelty-free.
10. Pacifica Beauty Rosemary Purify Invigorating Shampoo
Pacifica Beauty Rosemary Shampoo is consciously crafted and is free from sulfates, SLS, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil, ensuring that the natural vibrancy of your hair is not compromised.
This product promises to rejuvenate your hair, leaving it looking, feeling, and smelling impeccably clean. Regardless of your hair type, even if you struggle with a congested scalp, this product is tailored to suit your needs.
We hope this episode has provided you with some great options for cruelty-free and/or vegan shampoos. By purchasing from these companies you’re telling them that how we treat animals and our planet is important to you, so please try and support these companies when you can!
For more on cruelty-free certifications, check out our past episode “Cruelty-Free 101.“
FAQs About Vegan Shampoo
Here are some commonly asked questions about vegan shampoo to help you better understand the benefits and how to choose the right one for your hair.
1. What is the best vegan shampoo for curly hair?
Vegan shampoos that are rich in natural moisturizers like coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil work great for curly hair. These ingredients help define curls, reduce frizz, and lock in moisture. Look for shampoos designed specifically for curly or frizzy hair to ensure your curls stay bouncy and hydrated.
2. Is vegan shampoo okay for color-treated hair?
Yes, many vegan shampoos are perfect for color-treated hair because they’re free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens that can strip your color. Vegan shampoos with natural ingredients help maintain vibrant color while nourishing and protecting your hair. Shampoo with Pro-Vitamin B5 and coconut oil is excellent for preserving the health of color-treated strands.
3. Does vegan shampoo help with hair growth?
Some vegan shampoo contains ingredients that support hair growth, like Pro-Vitamin B5, amino acids, and plant-based proteins. These ingredients strengthen the hair cuticles, reduce breakage, and improve overall hair health, which can promote healthier hair growth over time.
4. Is vegan shampoo safe for sensitive skin?
Absolutely! Many vegan shampoos are formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on sensitive skin and scalps. They don’t contain irritating chemicals like sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and parabens, making them a great choice for those with sensitive scalps or skin types prone to irritation.
5. What ingredients should I avoid in traditional shampoo?
In traditional shampoo, avoid ingredients like sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, and silicones, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness or irritation. These ingredients are often absent in vegan shampoos, which tend to focus on natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter for a healthier, gentler hair-washing experience.
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