Is keratin vegan?
Not vegan
Is keratin vegan?
Why
keratin comes directly from an animal's body, so it is never vegan however it is farmed or labelled.
Commonly hides in
- wool
What to use instead
bamboo viscose — It does exactly the same job in coffee, cooking and baking, with no change in method.
How to check a label
Ingredient lists are legally required to name allergens such as milk and egg in bold, which catches most hidden animal ingredients. E-numbers and processing aids are the gap: E120, E441, E542, E904 and E920 are animal-derived, and processing aids often go unlisted. When in doubt, look for a certified vegan mark or ask the manufacturer directly — most reply within a few days.
In depth
The longer answer
Keratin is a structural protein naturally found in the hair, skin, nails, and hooves of animals, as well as in feathers, wool, and horns. It is commonly extracted from these animal sources for use in hair and nail care products, where it is marketed as a strengthening or repairing ingredient. People often encounter keratin in shampoos, conditioners, and treatments.
Keratin is not vegan because it is almost always derived from animal tissues, such as sheep's wool or the hooves and horns of cows. While there are plant-based alternatives that mimic keratin's effects, such as hydrolyzed wheat or soy protein, true keratin is inherently animal-derived. This makes it straightforwardly non-vegan, though some products may use synthetic keratin, which is rare and not always clearly labeled.
To confirm a product is vegan, look for certifications like the Vegan Society logo or check for plant-based proteins like hydrolyzed quinoa or pea protein instead of keratin. Avoid ingredients such as "hydrolyzed keratin" or "keratin amino acids." For a direct substitute, consider products with biotin or rice protein, which offer similar strengthening benefits without animal involvement.
At a glance
Quick facts
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Source | Animal hair, hooves, feathers |
| Vegan status | Not vegan |
| Common uses | Hair and nail products |
| Plant alternative | Hydrolyzed wheat or soy protein |
In practice
What this means for you
- Check ingredient lists for "hydrolyzed keratin" or "keratin amino acids" — both are animal-derived.
- Look for vegan certifications on hair products, as keratin is often hidden in conditioners and treatments.
- Use plant-based proteins like quinoa or pea protein for similar strengthening effects without animal ingredients.
- Avoid keratin treatments at salons unless they explicitly use synthetic or plant-based keratin alternatives.
FAQ
Common questions
Is keratin always from animals?
Can I find vegan keratin in supplements?
What should I look for on a label to avoid keratin?
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