Mielle Organics, a hair-care brand founded in 2014 by registered nurse Monique Rodriguez, has recently come under fire amid allegations that its products cause significant hair damage. Users on social media report severe dryness, breakage, and hair loss, with many claiming they have found clumps of hair after using products like the popular Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil.
A Brief History
Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Oil gained widespread attention on TikTok in December 2022 when influencer Alix Earle recommended it for hair growth to her millions of followers, introducing the brand to a broader audience. This sudden popularity sparked concerns among long-time Black customers about the availability of a product specifically designed for textured hair.
On January 11, 2023, Mielle announced its acquisition by Procter & Gamble Beauty, raising worries among loyal customers about potential changes in product formulations. Rodriguez reassured consumers, stating, “The community is the foundation of Mielle. I can assure you that we have no plans to change any of our formulas.”
Current Allegations
However, dissatisfaction has grown as customers allege that some products have been reformulated, leading to hair damage. The hashtag “Mielle Hair loss” has gained traction on TikTok, with numerous users posting videos detailing their experiences. For instance, TikTok user Summer Ware claimed that after using Mielle products since November 2022, her hair was “completely ruined.” Another user, TamarasHairCare, shared videos documenting their hair deterioration, expressing frustration over being dismissed in the past.
Legal Concerns
The surge in complaints has led to confusion over previous legal issues faced by Mielle. Some users referenced a 2022 labor lawsuit unrelated to product quality, which was dismissed ten months after being filed. Additionally, an intent to sue notice related to California’s Proposition 65, which requires companies to disclose harmful chemicals, mentioned the ingredient diethanolamine (DEA) in Mielle’s strengthening shampoo. While DEA has been linked to cancer in animals, experts clarify that its presence must be at trace levels to be safe.
Javon Ford, a cosmetic chemist, emphasized that no products on the market intentionally use DEA, and that Mielle is not the only brand cited in the intent to sue.
Ingredient Safety
Many social media users speculate that hair damage stems from changes in Mielle’s formulations post-acquisition. However, Ford noted that ingredient lists for products like the Rosemary Mint Oil appear largely unchanged. He suggested that irritation may arise from essential oils, such as rosemary and peppermint, known for causing allergic reactions in some individuals.
Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist, highlighted that essential oils can lead to contact dermatitis, which may worsen with prolonged use. She also cautioned that while these oils can promote hair growth, they should be discontinued if irritation occurs.
Amid rising popularity, Mielle has also addressed the issue of counterfeit products circulating online, urging customers to verify they are purchasing authentic items.
Company Response
Rodriguez responded to the allegations in a September 8 Instagram video, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to using healthy ingredients. “My family and I are avid users of Mielle… I believe in the power of our products,” she stated. The brand later emphasized that there have been no changes to its formulations since joining P&G and highlighted that hair shedding can result from various factors, including hormonal changes and stress.
Conclusion
The recent controversy surrounding Mielle Organics underscores the complexities of hair care and the emotional toll of hair loss. While consumers bear some responsibility for understanding their reactions to products, brands like Mielle must also prioritize transparency and education about their ingredients. As allegations continue to circulate, both the company and its users seek clarity on the root causes of hair damage. As Ford succinctly put it, “It’s just a drying formula. To me, it’s that simple.”
