6-FREE
We know that what we put on our scalp and hair absorbs into our body. Many hair care products on the market contain a myriad of ingredients that have been scientifically linked to things like hormonal imbalances, endocrine disruption, and potentially cancer - amongst several other health related concerns. We've identified some of the top most commonly used - and controversial - ingredients in hair care and have eliminated them from each of our formulas. In doing so, we've coined a concept called "6-FREE" hair care, whereby each Briogeo product is void of the following 6 ingredients:
Sulfates: Harsh, synthetic surfactants used to dissolve dirt and oil
Concerns: Can cause scalp irritation, follicle inflammation, and cause hair to become dry and dull
Silicones: Lightweight, synthetic, petroleum-derived polymers that coat the hair cuticle to lock out frizz and enhance shine
Concerns: Excessive build up and “clogging” of the hair cuticle that can lead to hair loss and often requires a harsh shampoo for adequate removal.
Phthalates: Chemicals used to stabilize synthetic fragrances
Concerns: Potential reproductive and developmental toxicity
Parabens: Synthetic preservatives meant to inhibit bacteria growth and extend the shelf life of products
Concerns: Scientific studies that may indicate a link between paraben ingestion and certain types of cancers
DEA: A foaming and product thickening agent
Concerns: Linked to allergies, skin toxicity, hormone disruption, and inhibited fetal brain development.
Artificial Dyes: Synthetic agents used to cosmetically tint products
Concerns: Can cause scalp irritation and can be problematic for those with allergies or sensitive skin and eyes.
In addition to the above "6-FREE" list, you'll never find any of these ingredients in our products, either:
Benzalkonium Chloride, Benzophenone, Bisphenol A (BPA), Butoxyethanol, Coal Tar Dyes, EDTA, Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA), Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Liquid Paraffin, Liquid Petrolatum, Methyl Cellosolve, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Mercury, Mercury Compounds, Mineral Oil, Oxybenzone, Paraffin Oil, Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs), Resorcinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinol, Siloxanes, Thimerosal, Toluene, Triclosan, or Triclocarban.
Not all chemicals are bad (water, after all, is a chemical), but some chemicals are toxic, and even tiny doses can be potent. We consult the Environmental Working Group (EWG) ingredient database, amongst other sources, to understand the potential hazards of various personal care ingredients. While Briogeo products are all 93-100% naturally-derived, the small amount of non-natural ingredients we use are scrubbed against the EWG and supplier safety databases to ensure non-toxicity.
If you have any questions about any of our ingredients and why we use them, please consult our FAQ and if you can't find an answer there, please send us a note at service [at] briogeohair.com.
HAIR CARE TIPS
Natural Performance Ingredients
While we realize the importance of using safe, non-toxic ingredients in personal care, we also know that product performance is a top priority to our customers, as well. At Briogeo, we're focused on creating safe products that address your specific hair needs and give you the beautiful, healthy hair you want and deserve. All of our products contain at least 93-100% natural ingredients – and the very small % of non-natural ingredients we use in some of our products have been cross checked against the EWG database and our raw material safety data sheets. These ingredients are only necessary in ensuring the stability and efficacy of our products (you can read more about them on our blog). For your reference, we've compiled the below list of ingredients, definitions, product references, and EWG scores of all the ingredients used in our products.
Abies Sibirica (Fir Needle) Oil
An invigorating oil extracted from fir leaves that helps stimulate the hair follicle to promote healthy hair growth. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: DDR
Acanthus Mollis Leaf Extract
A natural plant extract that helps soften & define curls and promote consistent curl formation
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice
A natural juice extracted from the aloe vera plant that has excellent conditioning and nourishing properties. It helps to moisturize and soften the hair—in addition to helping to soothe & hydrate the scalp.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB BGBK CC DDR CW LI
Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil
A natural oil that is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. This ingredient provides extensive conditioning and helps combat hair dryness and damage, in addition to diminishing frizz.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB DDR RO
Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) Extract
A plant extract that helps improve the moisture and natural sheen of the hair, while increasing strength and elasticity. This nutrient rich ingredient also has protective antioxidant properties and improves hair health through its silica rich nutrient base. Silica is known to improve hair texture, prevent split ends, and accelerate hair growth.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK CC
Behentrimonium Methosulfate (rapeseed derived)
A very mild yet effective ingredient known for its de-tangling and hair thickening properties. This ingredient directly deposits onto the hair follicle to smooth out the cuticles making hair healthier and thus easy to style and maintain.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: CW
Biotin
An essential B-vitamin that promotes hair growth and aids in overall hair health. This ingredient strengthens both the hair follicle and the hair shaft, from which the hair grows.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB DDR
Brassica Alcohol (brassica oil derived)
A fatty alcohol found in plant cells that does not behave like other alcohols, such as ethanol or propanol Brassica Alcohol is not a drying alcohol. This ingredient conditions & softens the hair and increases manageability.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR BB
Brassicyl Isoleucinate Esylate (plant derived)
A plant-derived moisturizing agent that helps to condition the hair and deter static.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR BB
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
A natural butter that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, E, and F), minerals, and healthy hair essential nutrients. This ingredient acts as an intensive moisturizer that helps increase hair sheen, softness, & body and enhances the texture and feel of the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC CW
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
A fragrant, natural flower extract that helps soothe and condition the scalp. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: DDR BB
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin and hair from the damaging effects of free radicals such as smoke, UV rays, and pollution. It is also believed that green tea helps to thicken thinning hair and encourage hair growth, in addition to promoting overall hair health.
EWG SCORE: 2
USED IN: BGBK
Cananga Odorata (Ylang) Flower Oil
A fragrant essential oil known for it's skin and scalp stimulating properties, in addition to helping aid healthy hair growth. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 3
USED IN: CW LI CC
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (coconut oil derived)
A fatty acid derived from coconut oil that is used as a formula thickening agent and that also increases the spreadability of the product.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC
Carica (Papaya) Fruit Extract
A natural fruit extract that helps condition, hydrate, and moisturize the hair and scalp. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil
A fragrant oil known to help stimulate the scalp and hair follicles in addition to helping prevent dandruff. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW LI CC
Cetrimonium Chloride (vegetable derived)
A conditioning agent that is mainly used to prevent static and build-up in the hair. It attracts negatively charged hair proteins resulting in smoother and more managable hair.
EWG SCORE: 3
USED IN: CW LI CC DDR BB
Cetyl Alcohol (vegetable derived)
A fatty alcohol found in plant cells that does not behave like other alcohols, such as ethanol or propanol. Cetyl Alcohol is not a drying alcohol. This ingredient conditions & softens the hair and increases manageability.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW DDR
Cetyl Esters (coconut oil derived)
A light wax, dervied from coconut, used to soften and smooth the hair. This ingredient also aids in sealing damaged hair cuticles.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR BB
Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract
A natural flower extract known for strengthening the hair follicle and anti-anflammitory scalp properties. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Chitosan Succinamide (vegetable derived)
A vegetable derived agent that enhances the silkiness and smoothness of the hair without a greasy feel. Hydrates, coats, and repairs the hair and provides heat protection.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC BGBK
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D)
Also known as vitamin D; plays an essential role in the cycle of hair growth. Researchers have found that vitamin D is essential to preventing hair loss and stimulating the growth of new hair.
EWG SCORE: 5
USED IN: DDR
Citric Acid
An acid derived from citrus fruits that acts as a preservative by adjusting the the pH of the formula.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW BGBK CC DDR BB
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Extract
A fragrant floral extract with hair and scalp conditioning properties. Also know for its anti-inflammatory qualities, helping to soothe dry irritated skin. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW LI BGBK
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil
A fragrant natural oil known for its skin/scalp conditioning properties and invigorating aroma. This ingredient is also rich in Vitamin C and is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR CW BB
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil
A fragrant essential oil that is rich in Vitamin C and is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage. This ingredient also acts a mild product preservative and is used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 3
USED IN: CW LI BGBK CC BB
Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil
A fragrant natural oil that is rich in Vitamin C and is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: DDR
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
A miracle nut oil rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and fatty acids which nourish the hair and seal in moisture to protect hair from breakage. By penetrating the hair shaft, coconut oil also protects against environmental impurities and excess heat.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: RO
Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Extract
A fragrant plant extract that has antiseptic & anti-microbial properties that help keep the scalp clear and clean. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (coconut derived)
A gentle surfactant (or cleanser) that effectively helps water to combine with oil and dirt so that it can be rinsed away.
EWG SCORE: 2
USED IN: BGBK
Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Fruit Extract
A fruit extract rich in antioxidants that help protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage. This ingredient is also helps smooth hair and enhance shine. It is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom) Oil
A fragrant essential oil with antioxidant properties that help protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance our formulas.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: DDR
Ethyltrimonium Chloride Methacrylate/Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Copolymer
A protein that helps increase the appearance of fuller looking hair while diminishing and deterring frizz. In addition to its hair volumizing properties, this ingredient helps strengthen and repair hair, as well as enhances smoothness and moisture retention.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB
Glycerin (vegetable derived)
A humectant (attracts water) known to help prevent hair water loss, thereby helping to prevent breakage. In addition, this ingredient has great conditioning properties and helps enhance softness and shine. This ingredient is also known for its thermal protection properties in aiding against heat damage.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK CC
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract
A vegetable extract known for its potent antioxidant properties that help protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage, in addition to its anti-inflammatory properties that help nourish the scalp.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK LI
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (natural guar gum)
A conditioning agent that helps detangle the hair and enhance shine and body.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: CW CC DDR BB
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
A natural oil that is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, in addition to essential minerals and fatty acids. This ingredient helps prevent hair dryness and frizz, in addition to enhancing the silkiness and smoothness of the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR RO
Hydrolyzed Collagen
A protein that is known to increase the density and flexibility of the hair, while increasing the appearance of thicker-looking hair. This ingredient also helps increase hair elasticity to prevent breakage.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB DDR BGBK CC
Hydrolyzed Keratin
A protein that is able to penetrate the hair cortex and increase moisture levels & plasticity and improve hair strength. This ingredient also helps improve hair manageability and smoothness.
EWG SCORE: 2
USED IN: DDR LI
Hydrolyzed Quinoa
A vegetable based extract rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Quinoa forms a protective barrier to protect the hair from environmental stresses, retains moisture in the hair, and provides nutrients to the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: LI CW
Hydrolyzed Silk
A silk protein that enhances the shine, luster, and silkiness of the hair. Provides superior conditioning and helps improve moisture balance and elasticity of the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB CC DDR
Isopropyl Myristate (vegetable derived)
A fatty acid that increases the spreadability of the product and allows the formula to be applied smoothly.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC DDR BB
Keratin Amino Acids
An intense moisturizer that has the ability to penetrate the hair shaft and deliver optimal conditioning and strengthening properties. Helps improve hair sheen and manageability.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC LI
Lactobacillus/Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Ferment Extract
A fruit derived extract that encourages curl formation and has nourishing & conditioning properties.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CC LI
Lauramidopropyl Betaine (coconut derived)
A foaming cleanser that helps remove dirt and oil from the hair. In addition, this ingredient has hair conditioning and anti-static properties.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: BGBK
Lauryl Pyrrolidone (coconut derived)
A gentle surfactant (or cleanser) that effectively helps water to combine with oil and dirt so that it can be rinsed away.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: BB
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
A fragrant essential oil known for its skin & scalp soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance the formula.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: DDR
Maltodextrin (sugar derived)
A sugar starch with film-forming properties that creates a coating around the hair, locking in moisture and strengthening the hair shaft. The resulting effect is an increase in volume and fullness of hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Amino Acids
An amino acid that penetrates the hair shaft to provide moisture & strength, while smoothing the hair shaft to deter frizz and liven curls.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: CC LI
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract
An extract rich in antioxidants that conditions and protects the hair and scalp. This ingredient is also rich in silica which helps protect and reinforce the hair.
EWG SCORE: 2
USED IN: BGBK RO
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
A natural extract known to help stimulate blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles to encourage hair growth
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB DDR
Panthenol (ProVitamin B5)
A provitamin, also known as Pantothenic Acid, that helps improve the texture of the hair, adding body and sheen. This ingredient helps to repair split ends and helps restore hair damaged by heat and/or chemical treatments. This ingredient helps hair to retain moisture, nourishes the scalp and enhances overall hair health.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: BB BGBK CC DDR CW LI
Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride
A B5 vitamin compound that enhances the shine & silkiness of the hair, in addition to increasing the manageability and body. This ingredient also helps to smooth the hair and deter frizz.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
A natural oil with powerful hair conditioning properties that replenishes and maintains hair moisture and nourishment. This oil is high in essentially fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamin E, and protein -- all healthy hair essential nutrients.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK DDR CW LI
Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil
A fragrant essential oil known to help prevent dandruff and balance scalp oiliness, while conditioning the hair. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance the formula.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW LI CC DDR
Propanediol (corn derived)
A naturally derived compound that helps improve the moisture and natural sheen of the hair, while increasing strength and elasticity.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: DDR
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
A natural, light weight oil that promotes shine & luster and nourishes dry or weak hair. This ingredient also smoothes the hair cuticle and locks in moisture. Rich in healthy-hair vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB CC DDR
Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract
A plant extract and natural silicone alternative that is lightweight and provides superior slip for smooth application and enhances the natural shine and luster of the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: RO
Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A)
Also known as Vitamin A; a crucial vitamin that supports hair growth and health. This vitamin is also high in antioxidants that protect the scalp and hair from free radical damage.
EWG SCORE: 8
USED IN: DDR
Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Extract
This natural extract from the Canina family of rosehips contains a high content of antioxidants help protect the scalp and hair from the damaging effects of free radicals.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK RO CC BB
Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil
This natural oil from the Canina family of rosehips contains a high content of essential fatty acids and is a rich source of antioxidants including lycopene and betacarotene.  Essential fatty acids are crucial in maintaining hair hydration and controlling frizz. Antioxidants help protect the scalp and hair from the damaging effects of free radicals.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BB CC RO
Rosa Mosqueta (Rosehip) Fruit Oil
This natural oil from the Mosqueta family of rosehips contains a high content of essential fatty acids and is a rich source of antioxidants including lycopene and betacarotene.  Essential fatty acids are crucial in maintaining hair hydration and controlling frizz. Antioxidants help protect the scalp and hair from the damaging effects of free radicals.
EWG SCORE: NA
USED IN: DDR
Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil
A fragrant, natural oil known for its moisturizing and hydrating properties. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance the formula.
EWG SCORE: 2
USED IN: CW LI CC
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (coconut derived)
Gentle, foaming cleansers derived from coconut fatty acids used to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the hair
EWG SCORE: Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate (2), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (1), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (0)
USED IN: BGBK
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (coconut derived)
A hair cleansing agent, derived from coconuts, used to remove dirt and oil from the hair. This ingredient is also used to help soften hard water.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: BGBK
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate (amino acid derived)
A mild and high foaming cleanser used to remove dirt and oil from the hair.
EWG SCORE: 3
USED IN: BGBK
Sorbitol (sugar derived)
A sugar derived ingredient that acts as a humectant, attracting water to the hair to balance moisture content.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW LI
Soyamidopropyldimethylamine Oxide (soybean derived)
A soybean derived ingredient that helps boost the efficacy and foaming properties of the coconut derived cleansers used in our shampoo.
EWG SCORE: NA
USED IN: BGBK
Squalane (olive derived)
This natural oil works as a lightweight conditioner, making hair strands smooth and strong. It is rich in antioxidants that help protect the scalp and hair from the damaging effects of free radicals.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW
Stearoyl CoA-desaturase (SCD-1)
WILL REVERT
EWG SCORE: NA
USED IN: CC
Stearyl Alcohol (vegetable derived)
A fatty alcohol found in plant cells that does not behave like other alcohols, such as ethanol or propanol. Stearyl Alcohol is not a drying alcohol. This ingredient conditions & softens the hair and increases manageability.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: CW DDR
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Also known as Vitamin E, this ingredient is an antioxidant and intensive hair conditioning vitamin. This ingredient also softens the hair, provides essential healthy-hair nutrients, and soothes & protects the scalp.
EWG SCORE: 3
USED IN: BB BGBK CC DDR LI RO
Vegetable Oil (Olus Oil)
A natural vegetable derived oil that is rich in fatty acids . Essential fatty acids are crucial in maintaining hair hydration and controlling frizz. It is hypoallergenic, and suitable for those with sensitive, dry and itchy scalps.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: CW
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
A natural vegetable derived oil that helps to soften and smooth the hair.
EWG SCORE: 0
USED IN: DDR
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil
A natural oil known for its scalp and follicle stimulating properties that help promote hair growth. This ingredient is also used to naturally fragrance the formula.
EWG SCORE: 1
USED IN: BB