Vegan vs. Cruelty-Free: Why the Distinction Matters to Your Spa Clients

Clear Definitions

• Vegan: Contains no animal-derived ingredients and is often assumed to also mean not tested on animals. Common non-vegan ingredients include beeswax, lanolin, and carmine.
• Cruelty-Free: Not tested on animals—by the brand, its suppliers, or anyone involved in the production process. May contain non-vegan ingredients.

These terms represent different priorities—whether it's about ingredients or testing practices—and understanding how to explain both shows guests that you understand their priorities and care about their individual choices.

Why It Matters to Clients

A growing number of clients are seeking more than results—they want their time at the spa to reflect their personal values. More guests are curious about how products connect with their personal choices, and for many, the decision between vegan or cruelty-free is about identity, wellness, and mindful living.

When you meet this expectation with clarity and care, you’re offering more than a treatment. You’re offering trust—and that trust is backed by real data that shows how important these preferences have become.

Consider this:

• Nearly 70% of North American consumers are more likely to choose vegan or cruelty-free beauty products (Market.us.News).
• The global cruelty-free cosmetics market is projected to reach $9.92 billion by 2031 (Statista).
• The vegan cosmetics market is steadily growing:
• • Expected to hit $25.9 billion by 2030, with a 6.3% annual growth rate (Grand View Research).
  • Valued at $19.21 billion in 2024, projected to grow to $32.56 billion by 2032 (Fortune Business Insights).
  • 6.85% CAGR expected over the forecast period.

Clear product labeling doesn’t just build client confidence—it contributes to the overall sense of care and connection. When clients can quickly recognize that your treatments reflect their values, it creates ease, trust, and a feeling of being truly seen. That kind of transparency turns a good visit into a meaningful one.

What They’re Really Asking For

Here’s how to read between the lines:

• “I want vegan” → They’re focused on ingredients and often care about clean, plant-based formulas.
• “I want cruelty-free” → They’re passionate about humane practices and no animal testing.
• “I want both” → A growing number of clients want products made without animal ingredients or testing—choices that feel good inside and out.

This is a real opportunity to connect your services with what clients prioritize most.

Easy Ways to Respond

• Label your services clearly: A little detail goes a long way—note which treatments use vegan and/or cruelty-free products.
• Educate your team: With a quick refresher, your staff can confidently answer client questions.
• Highlight trusted certifications: Look for badges from Leaping Bunny, PETA, Vegan Society, or Vegan Action to make sourcing simpler.
• Talk to your suppliers: Most are happy to share details—and it helps ensure your offerings match your standards.

When you support your clients’ values through thoughtful product choices, it deepens connection and loyalty. Being able to address the difference between vegan and cruelty-free isn’t just helpful—it’s a reflection of the mindful experience your spa offers.

Universal Companies is proud to have a team of experienced spa advisors on staff and welcomes you to consult with our professionals about spa products and supplies, including ingredients, equipment, and retail. Dedicated to the success of spa professionals everywhere, we're grateful to be recognized with multiple industry awards (thank you!) and proud to support the spa industry through mentorship and sponsorship.