How to Find a Vegan-Feminist Hair Salon
Vegan-Feminism extends to what you wear and use outside the home, too!
Before I became a journalist, I worked in the beauty industry. I started as a shampoo girl at a local salon and quickly worked my way up to managing several salons in downtown Chicago — all before I was 20! When it comes to salons, I know my way around them, and especially what’s inside them.
This won’t be a philosophical conversation regarding the “Should we even be going to hair salons as feminists?” question. Instead, this guide is here for those who still like to get their hair done and want to ensure they are making choices that align with their moral philosophy and lifestyle.
Finding a Vegan-Feminist Salon
Unless you live in a big city or extremely vegan-friendly area, chances are, there are no 100% vegan hair salons near you. Just in case, check HappyCow in the ‘other’ category for vegan-friendly salons in your area.
If you do not live near 100% vegan salons, there is a second-best option. Aveda salons, although owned by a parent company that tests on animals, are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. Aveda salons are much easier to find; just call an Aveda salon to ensure that all of their products are Aveda branded. Obviously, this choice isn’t perfect, but it is way better than going to a salon that uses brands like RedKen or Schwarzkopf (both offer “vegan” products but tests on animals).
Sticking with your Current Salon
Many people are dedicated and committed to their stylist. My mother, who has been a professional hairstylist for over thirty years, has clients who have been coming to her since 1989. If you’re in this boat, I recommend speaking with your stylist and asking if they have vegan products in their salon that they can use on you going forward. If not, ask them if it would be appropriate for you to bring your own products (I’ve done this before, and they didn’t mind!).
Common vegan professional hair brands:
Doing your Hair at Home
I don’t recommend cutting your own hair, but if you absolutely must, it’s much better than going to a salon that goes against your morals. When it comes to color, there are a lot of suitable brands, including:
To see my favorite vegan hair care brands, click here.