Vegan, cruelty free and sulfate free are not the same
A product can be one without being the others, so it helps to ask about all three.
- Vegan: no animal derived ingredients, such as lanolin from wool, beeswax or carmine.
- Cruelty free: the product and its ingredients are not tested on animals.
- Sulfate free: cleansers without sulfate detergents, which are gentler on color and scalp.
Why it matters for your hair
Sulfate free cleansing is one of the simplest ways to make color last, especially reds and blondes. Gentle formulas are also kinder to sensitive scalps. And for many clients, knowing their salon visit fits their values is part of feeling good about their hair.
Not sure what to book?
Start with a free ten minute consultation at 1365 1st Avenue on the Upper East Side.
Products at María Cortes NY
The salon works with professional brands including Oribe, Aveda, Olaplex and K18, and offers bond and repair treatments with K18, Olaplex and Oribe alongside color.
How to check a salon
- Ask which color line they use and whether it is vegan and cruelty free.
- Ask if their shampoos and treatments are sulfate free.
- Look for clear labels on retail products, and ask about anything you are unsure of.
