This post was most recently updated on May 22nd, 2023
If you have high-maintenance hair or sweat often, a scalp exfoliant like Briogeo Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo will be enormously beneficial in clearing buildups and supporting a healthy scalp. This Briogeo Scalp Revival review explains all you need to know about the shampoo and helps you decide if this is worth it.
We uncover the ingredient breakdown, real-life user experiences, disadvantages, and alternatives to the Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.
Is Briogeo Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo for You?
Everything from cold weather, hair products to hormonal fluctuations can cause scalp issues. If you put multiple styling products in your hair, it builds up and can be hard to remove with a regular shampoo, leading to a flaky, itchy, and oily scalp.
Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo can be a lifesaver for such occasions. It effectively removes dead skin cells, dirt, and sebum from your scalp, leaving it clean and fuller. This weekly scalp scrub is suitable for all hair types (1a to 4c) and textures (fine to thick).
Additionally, the formula also won’t strip out your hair color, but it may be too drying. No matter what your hair type is, always follow with a deep conditioner or a hydrating serum. But, it is better to stay clear from this shampoo if you have extremely dry hair and instead use Ouai Detox Clarifying Shampoo.
We looked at real-life user reviews to discover that some found the scrub irritating, especially those with sensitive scalps. We recommend using a chemical exfoliant like Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo if you feel like the scrub is too intense or harsh to your scalp.
The Don’t Despair, Repair line of Briogeo with the Rice Water Protein, Conditioning Mask, and Treatment Oil is great if you have extremely damaged hair that requires rescue.
Next, let’s take a closer look at the formula.
Claims of Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
Instead of coming in a tall bottle, this shampoo is packed into small tubs similar to your hair mask. It has a creamy, but thin texture with gray color and an ultra-fine grit. It doesn’t lather up much, though.
Once it’s massaged, the grain-and-gritty scrub physically loosens flakes on your scalp, making it fresh and clean as promised. Peppermint, spearmint, and tea tree oils deliver a minty scent to it while also soothing your scalp. Coconut oil helps balance your moisture. Yet, you still should use hydrating hair care afterward since the shampoo is full of surfactants that can dry out your hair.
Based on a clinical study with expert clinician evaluation, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is shown to decrease 82% of flakes after the first use. The company itself suggests using it together with the Scalp Revival Cooling Hydration Scalp Mask to hydrate your scalp after exfoliating.
If you’re interested in giving it a try, let’s check out the price of this award-winning scalp scrub.
Where to Buy Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo?
When it comes to pricing, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo costs you around $42 for 8 fl oz ($5.25 / Ounce). At this price point, it seems quite pricey if you factor in the size. Given you’ll only use this scalp scrub occasionally, the long-term value seems fair.
- WHO IT’S FOR: For those with a dry, itchy, and flaky scalp or product buildup. Hair types: straight, wavy, curly and coily.
- WHAT IT IS: An exfoliating, sulfate-free scalp scrub shampoo treatment that lifts away impurities and buildup. Balances and soothes dry or oily, itchy, irritated scalp for long-term scalp and hair health.
- WHAT IT DOES: This creamy, micro-exfoliating scalp scrub shampoo contains coconut-derived cleansers and plant-based exfoliators to help gently remove dead skin, excess oils, and impurities from the scalp.
If your hair is thick in density, you’ll need a generous amount for each use, meaning this small tub will run out quickly. No worries, Briogeo also offers the bigger size you can choose from. Get more and save more!
Next, let’s take a look at the ingredients of Briogeo Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.
What’s Inside Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo?
The Briogeo Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is made of 95% naturally-derived ingredients, is vegan, and Leaping Bunny certified to be cruelty-free. It is also formulated without Briogeo Blocklist, such as sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, artificial colors, aerosols, and microplastics.
The below picture displays the full ingredients of Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.
Check out the table below to see the function of each ingredient.
| Solvent | Water |
| Surfactant | Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate |
| Emollient | Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Castor Oil |
| Viscosity Control | Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate |
| Moisturizer | Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol |
| Scrub | Charcoal Powder, Microcrystalline Cellulose |
| Soothing Agent | Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Menthyl Lactate |
| Perfuming Agent | Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Fragrance |
| Anti-static Agent | Polyquaternium-7 |
| Preservative | Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol |
| Buffering Agent | Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide |
Here we take a look at the standout ingredients of Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.
Bincothan Charcoal Powder
It is a traditional Japanese charcoal that detoxifies your scalp by absorbing excessive sebum and removing build-ups that can clog your scalp. Charcoal also has soothing properties which may help soothe itchy, irritated, and acne scalps.
Coconut Oil
Loaded in lauric acid, coconut oil can penetrate your hair shaft, leading to repair and moisturize your hair. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce flakes and itching.
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Similar to charcoal, microcrystalline cellulose is an abrasive that comes in fine white powder. It gently scrubs flakes and reduces greasiness, giving a soft touch to it.
Peppermint, Spearmint, and Tea Tree Oils
As essential oils, they are used to soothe itchy and irritated scalps thanks to their cooling effects. It also has antifungal properties which are beneficial to combat dandruff or other scalp-related issues.
Glycerin
Glycerin is beneficial to hydrate your hair due to its ability to attract moisture from the air’s humidity to your hair shaft. It also helps condition your scalp and can be used to reduce dandruff.
Panthenol
It has anti-inflammatory properties which help soothe inflammation or redness on your skin/ scalp. Panthenol is also beneficial to add strength, moisture, and softness to your hair.
In addition, Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo also contains other ingredients that improve your hair health and preserve the formula itself. These include moisturizers, emollients, anti-static agents, viscosity control, preservatives, buffers, etc.
As you can see on the table, the shampoo contains many cleansing agents which are beneficial to draw impurities and grime from your hair. However, the drawback is that they can dry out your hair, which is why you should follow with a hydrating treatment to balance your hair’s moisture.
Next, let’s check what customers say about the products.
The Results – Authentic User Reviews with Pictures
After we looked at the science behind Briogeo Scalp Revival, social proof is also an important factor to understand how it works on different hair types.
In this section, we uncovered both positive and negative reviews from various users gathered from multiple platforms. Here’s the rating for Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo from each source:
- Amazon: 4.5 / 5 stars from 2,290+ reviews
- Briogeo’s Website: 4.4 / 5 stars from 2,276+ reviews
- Influenster: 4.4 / 5 stars from 2,820+ reviews
- Sephora: 4.1 / 5 stars from 2,872+ reviews
Sephora has the highest number of reviews among them while Amazon has the highest rating/ star. Overall, Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo has received thousands of reviews from various sources, making it one of the most popular Briogeo hair products.
Now, let’s check out the positive reviews from different users.
The Compliments
Results of a woman with a flaky scalp after only one wash: Her scalp was completely clean and she barely has any more flakes on her scalp.
Results of a man who has a dry scalp and dead skin buildup. The shampoo really removed build-ups, but it dried his hair out. He also followed with a scalp moisturizer to balance the natural oil.
One woman reported that after using the Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo for 3 weeks, her hair stayed fresh for 3-4 days without turning greasy like it once was. It also eliminated all build-ups just after the first washing.
Results of a woman with a super oily scalp that tends to weigh her hair down. With Briogeo Scalp Revival, her hair was less oily in the last 4 weeks. It also helped reduce itching and lifted product build-ups.
Results of a woman with coily hair who suffered from postpartum dandruff. The Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo really helped her to get rid of dry patchy flakes and soothe itching on her scalp.
Now we know that the Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo helps remove flakes or product buildup, soothe scalp itching, and reduce greasy hair appearance since the first use.
Next, let’s see the negative reviews of Briogeo Scalp Revival.
The Complaints
Unfortunately, Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is not for everyone. Some noticed adverse effects right after using this shampoo.
Someone reported that it worked really well on her hair, but after the third use, she started getting allergic reactions, particularly rash on her palms. Read the side effects section for more details on why this may happen.
Another woman who has a sensitive scalp added that the product left her scalp red, irritated, and dry. She also couldn’t stand the scent because it was overpowering.
One user who has dry hair reported that the product did diminish product buildup and itching since the first wash. However, it made her hair drier afterward. “I alternate between these products and regular shampoo/ conditioner like [users] recommend.”
Additionally, some users reported that this scalp scrub shampoo is too expensive. Just like this user writes, “This helped my dry scalp but you have to use a lot of it and for the price, there are better products out there.”
As some experienced allergic reactions, it is recommended to do a patch test before using Briogeo Scalp Revival, especially if you have sensitive skin or scalp. Keep scrolling to learn more about the side effects and how it happens.
Possible Side Effects of Briogeo Scalp Revival
Although the company claims that it is free of harsh ingredients, Briogeo Scalp Revival still contains some ingredients that may cause unwanted effects in some people. For instance,
- You may notice itchiness, redness, or tightness if you are sensitive to Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB). In severe dermatitis, it may cause sores or blisters. However, the effects will disappear once you stop using the product. CAPB also may cause eye irritation if the product runs into your eyes while you take a shower.
- Briogeo Scalp Revival contains potential allergens, such as Tea Tree, Peppermint, and Spearmint Oils. In some cases, these essential oils may cause skin irritation or a rash where the product was used. It is advised to do a patch test before using the product.
- Benzyl Alcohol is non-volatile alcohol, so it won’t dry out your hair or scalp. However, you may experience itching or redness if you have a sensitive scalp or are sensitive to Benzyl.
- Biolage Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo contains Fragrance. If you prefer a fragrance-free shampoo, you may want to try Vanicream Shampoo for Sensitive Skin.
- As the product contains Sodium Hydroxide, those who have sensitive skin may more likely experience hive, inflammation, flakiness, or dryness.
Briogeo Scalp Revival has lots of allergens in the formula. If you have sensitive skin or an allergy to these ingredients, kindly do a skin test before using the shampoo. You can use aloe vera or OTC hydrocortisone cream when you notice contact dermatitis.
Next, let’s find out the alternatives to Briogeo Scalp Revival.
Alternatives to Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
As scalp scrubs have received tons of raving reviews recently, you won’t find it hard when looking for alternatives to Briogeo Scalp Revival. We have three detoxifying shampoos that may suit you offered by Nexxus, Ouai, and Biolage.
Nexxus Shampoo Clean & Pure Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
- CLEANSING HAIR SCALP SCRUB: gently exfoliates skin and hair residue, leaving scalp and hair nourished and purified. This scalp scrub goes well with our Clean and Pure Detox Shampoo
- PROTEINFUSION HAIR CARE: from the Clean & Pure line of hair products, this clarifying detox scalp scrub has ProteinFusion, an exclusive blend of elastin protein and marine minerals for smooth hair
- HAIR DETOX HAIR PRODUCTS: detoxify, purify and rebalance your scalp and hair by removing impurities, including product and oil build-up with this scalp scrub and our purifying shampoo
A scalp scrub doesn’t always come at a high price point. Nexxus offers sulfate-free detox shampoos that physically exfoliate flakes, product buildup, and sebum from your scalp.
It is also infused with an exclusive ProteinFusion blend that provides moisture and strength to your hair. You can get this Amazon’s choice for only $15.99 (11.25 fl oz).
Go check out our Nexxus shampoo review here.
Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub
- OUAI SCALP & BODY SCRUB. A rose-scented scrub that gently exfoliates and removes product buildup on the scalp and skin. It then moisturizes and nourishes, leaving you feeling soft and smooth.
- THE PERFECT TWO-FOR-ONE. Sugar and coconut oil increase microcirculation and gently exfoliate. Massage in circular motions and then rinse. Your scalp and skin will be left feeling clean and smooth.
- OUAI (or "way") means yes in that casual, Parisian way. We believe in effortless routines and good for you ingredients. Haircare customized to your hair type to nourish, strengthen and condition. Giving you the confidence to win life your OUAI.
This weekly treatment is designed to deeply cleanse your scalp and skin with its sugar crystal scrubs. The Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub also contains coconut oil to help soften and moisturize your hair afterward.
You can get an 8.8 oz scalp scrub for around $40, which is a bit pricier than Briogeo Scalp Revival.
Read our full review of Ouai shampoo to find another daily shampoo for you.
Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo
- Cleanses hair without drying it out
- Removes buildup and impurities from fine, damaged, coarse, curly, wavy, and straight hair
- Paraben-free formula is suitable for color-treated and natural hair
Inspired by the refreshing lemongrass juice, Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo is a chemical exfoliator that removes buildup and dirt. However, this vegan scalp scrub is not free of sulfates.
You can get Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo for $23 (13.5 fl oz).
Click here to read our full review of Biolage.
Bottom Line: Always Pair with Hydrating Hair Care
Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is ideal for flaky and oily scalps that remove product buildup and sebum after one use. Given the formula can be drying out your hair, always follow with a deep conditioner and hydrating hair care to balance your hair’s natural moisture.
Hope this review was useful and helped you get a better understanding of the product. Leave us with questions or thoughts in the comment section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use Briogeo Scalp Revival every day?
Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is a weekly, not daily treatment. You should use the shampoo once a week to remove product buildup and sebum.
Does Briogeo Scalp Revival work for dandruff?
Yes, Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo is also suitable to treat dandruff. If you prefer a stronger formula, you can go with the Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo as it’s specifically designed to treat dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Is Briogeo Scalp Revival good for dry scalp?
While this scalp scrub works best to remove flakes that usually happen to dry scalps, it also can be too drying. You should follow with intense hydrating treatment after using this shampoo to replace the lost moisture after exfoliating.
Karmelia is a writer at Reactive hair with a background in International Relations. She is usually glued to her laptop exploring the skincare & haircare world. She loves writing quality content that help people get a better understanding of the safety of the products they are using for better hair health.
Driven by her enthusiasm, Karmelia strives to empower ordinary individuals in making informed choices about their haircare routines. Recognizing the overwhelming number of products available in the market, she understands the importance of reliable guidance to navigate through the options. Through her articles, she aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and everyday haircare, ensuring that her readers can easily grasp the benefits and suitability of various products.
