We who have hair all wash and condition regularly, it's part of living a healthy lifestyle. However, did you know that many Shampoos and Conditioners contain animal products while others are tested on animals before they hit our shelves.
'Cruelty-Free' is a designation for products and companies that do not kill or harm animals. So, are your hair care products cruelty free? Read on if Cruelty-Free is important to you.
Here we have compiled a list of 9 Cruelty-Free brands for Shampoos and Conditioners. You can find these products easily in stores, at salons, and online. This list is not exhaustive, so don't be afraid to find the brands that are right for you.
1.Trader Joe's
For those of you who are lucky enough to have a Trader Joe’s near you, you can find inexpensive and cruelty-free shampoo, conditioner, and soap inside their stores! Their tea tree oil line is great for those with sensitive skin or flaky scalp; the antiseptic properties of tea tree oil will cleanse any harmful bacteria, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. For those who need more moisturizing in their routine, their Nourish line is perfect. In general, Trader Joe’s hair products are scant on unnecessary ingredients, and big on moisture and protection. If you live near a store, I’d highly recommend giving their products a try. At $4 a bottle, they’re extremely affordable.
2. Desert Essence
3. Giovanni
A leader in the natural haircare industry, Giovanni Cosmetics has a wide range of shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. While their “Magnetic” line does contain animal products, everything else is vegan and cruelty-free. In addition, none of their products contain sulfates, and most use natural fragrances. They have products to suit every need, from frizz control, to volumizing, to repairing damaged hair. They are sold in many common retailers, including Target, Walmart, and CVS, as well as many smaller health food stores and specialty shops.
4. Kiss My Face
Kiss My Face keeps it simple; they have three shampoos, each formulated for a specific need. “Whenever” is your basic no-frills shampoo, for those who just want to get their hair clean. “Miss Treated” is great for dry, damaged hair, with fortifying vitamins and oils. Finally, “Big Body” is perfect for those who want to add some volume. Each shampoo has a corresponding conditioner, as well. All Kiss My Face hair products are made with Moroccan argan oil, which is fair-trade sourced and all-natural. This essential oil will add shine and strength to any hair type, and is unlikely to clog pores. Coming in at just under $8 per bottle, Kiss My Face is a great option for those who want simple, natural haircare solutions.
5. Avalon Organics
Avalon is pricier than our other brands so far, but worth every penny. Their offerings of all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free products are suited to any hair need. Volumizing, nourishing, medicating, and strengthening products are all available, as is a gluten-free option. All products are completely plant-based, and contain no sulfates, GMOs, parabens, or synthetic fragrances or colors. Finally, they are all biodegradable, meaning that they will not harm the environment if poured down the drain.
6. Acure
Available from health stores as well as many chain retailers, Acure has a wide variety of hair products, all of which are vegan and cruelty-free. In addition, they are free of parabens and sulfates, for those who have sensitive skin. Volumizing, clarifying, and repairing products are all available, as well as 2-in-1 products and leave-in conditioners. At $10 per bottle, Acure is an ethical and inexpensive way to get your hair feeling thick, healthy, and clean.
7. Jason
One of the oldest names in natural beauty and health, Jason’s products are available at most pharmacies, chain retailers, and health stores. In addition to their dental and skincare offerings, they have plenty of haircare products. Ingredients like biotin and vitamin E strengthen and revitalize your hair, while jojoba and aloe sooth moisturize it and sooth itchy skin. Gluten-free and fragrance-free options are available as well, as are corresponding conditioners. For an affordable, widely-available, and ethical option, give Jason a try!
8. Shea Moisture
From humble origins in Sierra Leone, Shea Moisture has grown into one of the largest natural beauty companies in America, with products available in most major retailers. Their products reflect their African heritage, with black soap, castor oil, shea butter, and even baobab tree oil making appearances. For those with curls or natural hair, Shea Moisture is your best bet for inexpensive, vegan, and cruelty-free haircare solutions. However, their products are suitable for all hair types – don’t worry if you have straight and easily-controlled hair!
9. Paul Mitchell
The haircare titan has long been an advocate for animal rights, and his company’s products reflect this philosophy. None of Paul Mitchell’s shampoos or conditioners are tested on animals, and all of them are great for your hair. In addition, Paul Mitchell has participated in or led numerous ecological initiatives to protect our rainforests and waterways. Paul Mitchell shampoos, conditioners, and styling products are available in most major pharmacies and retailers, as well as professional salons. If you want professional-quality haircare at home without harming animals, check out Paul Mitchell!
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