Top 10 Cruelty-Free Haircare Products

Did you know that 80% of countries have no laws against animal testing? As a nation that does, it’s important that we stand up against it and do all we can to become a more conscious country. And that doesn’t just mean signing petitions − it means investing in good quality brands that never take part in animal testing.

We know it’s hard to keep tabs on everything that’s cruelty-free; there’s just so much to consider. So, just as we advise on finding the right cosmetics, we’ve also made it easier for you to shop cruelty-free hair care. From shampoo and conditioner to supplements and treatments, we’ve got all the best brands for taking care of your locks without compromise.

But first, let’s cover some basics.

What does cruelty-free really mean?

Put simply, cruelty-free means that the products and ingredients were not tested on animals before, during or after production. However, when it comes to finding cruelty-free brands, you want to make sure the brand’s suppliers and manufacturers adopt the same animal-friendly approach.

What’s the difference between cruelty-free and vegan?

So cruelty-free doesn’t test on animals – yay! But vegan means that there are also no animal products in the ingredients – this could vary from beeswax and honey to gelatine and tallow (animal fats).

Most beauty lines who stand against animal testing will also carry a range of vegan products, if not a full collection.

With that in mind, here are our top cruelty-free haircare products.

1. Olaplex

Olaplex are the rising brand in the beauty industry. Their worldwide appeal, global recognition and passionate fan base speak volumes: they were only founded in 2016, creating revolutionary products that hair care had never seen before. Now, they stand near the top of the pillar in everything hair related, backed by precise science and unmatched results.

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2. Noughty

Who doesn't want to feel a bit Noughty now and again? This award-winning brand have produced a range that is kind to your hair, bank account and the Earth. They boast the slogan '97% natural' in reference to their natural, vegan and cruelty-free collection that is drenched in enriching nutrients, from avocado to coconut, peppermint to vitamins.

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3. Jack Black

This bestselling men's grooming brand has nothing to do with animal testing, or Jack Black the actor. What they ARE all about is multifunctional, easy to use and effective products for the modern man.

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4. Cantu

The go-to for naturally curly and textured hair, Cantu is an award-winning brand with delicious-smelling collections infused with coconut oil and 100% shea butter. In addition to having amazing products at affordable prices and being cruelty-free, Cantu has also partnered with the non-profit Women Empowering Nations to give girls of colour in marginalised communities mentorship and leadership training.

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5. K18

Not only is this community-centric brand cruelty-free, it's also vegan, dermatologically-tested and doesn't use any silicone, phthalates or sulphates. As well as being committed to pushing boundaries in their haircare products and tools, K18 are also committed to the planet and are Certified Plastic Neutral.

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6. R+Co

Some of the best hair stylists in the industry are in charge of this amazing haircare brand, delivering products that are straight to the point and effective (in adorable packaging). Cutting out nasties like parabens and sulphates (and animal testing), R+Co have got everything you need for caring for and styling your locks.

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7. Color Wow

Whether it’s a quick volume boost, colour fix or intense nourishment, we can always rely on Color Wow to whip our hair into shape. With a magnitude of awards under their belt, this is science-backed hair care using only 'good for you' ingredients that provide salon-worthy results.

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8. Pureology

Pureology have created customised, high performance formulas while caring for the planet and animals with beauty and integrity in mind. Featuring 100% vegan formulas, zero sulphates and ranges for all hair types across shampoo, conditioner and hair styling products, shop the brand that gets you salon-quality hair care at home.

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9. Aveda

Aveda is committed to making beautiful, naturally derived products that are always cruelty-free. They never test on animals or ask others to do so for them. They're also invested in the environment by supporting the development of renewable energy, in fact, all of their products are made with 100% wind power. Pretty nifty!

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10. Moroccanoil

Moroccanoil are one of the most iconic haircare brands, and for good reason: they centre their range around the nourishing qualities of argan oil, a central ingredient that is complemented by a myriad of cruelty-free materials. The luscious lotions deliver silky-smooth locks that you can run your hands through with a clean conscience.

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Hopefully you're feeling excited about adding more cruelty-free products to your haircare routine. Don't stop with hair, though! Check out our edit of the top 20 cruelty-free makeup brands.