Written by Trish B.
Mielle Organics is a well-known brand in the natural hair care space, especially in the Black community, as it focuses on products that cater to textured hair types. Founded by Monique Rodriguez in 2014, the company quickly gained popularity for its natural ingredients and effectiveness.
However, in early 2023, the brand found itself at the center of controversy. The issue started when non-Black influencers on TikTok and other social media platforms started endorsing Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil. This led to an increase in demand, which worried many of the brand’s longtime Black customers. The concern stemmed from fears that increased popularity could lead to scarcity, or that the brand would reformulate the product to appeal to a wider, less niche audience, potentially changing the effectiveness of black hair.
The controversy intensified when Procter & Gamble acquired Mielle Organics in January 2023. Some customers feared that the acquisition by a large company could lead to changes in the product formula or a shift in focus away from the brand’s original audience. Others worried that the brand would lose its Black-owned status and commitment to serving the Black community.
Despite these concerns, Mielle Organics has continued to demonstrate a commitment to its core values and community. Monique Rodriguez, the founder, has expressed her dedication to maintaining the integrity of her brand and her products. In response to the acquisition, he assured customers that the partnership with Procter & Gamble will allow Mielle Organics to grow and reach more consumers without compromising the quality or composition of the products that have become staples for so many.
– ADVERTISEMENT –
Mielle Organics has established itself as a market leader in natural hair care through its innovative product lines, including the beloved Rosemary Mint Collection, Babassu Oil Deep Conditioner and the Pomegranate & Honey range. These products are made with high-quality, natural ingredients that meet the unique needs of textured hair. Their effectiveness has earned the brand a loyal following, with customers praising how these products boost hair health, promote growth and specifically address the moisture and conditioning needs of curly and coily hair types. This dedication to quality has established Mielle Organics as a go-to brand for those looking for natural, effective solutions to their hair care routine.
Under Rodriguez’s leadership, Mielle Organics was more than just a beauty brand. She has been an advocate for diversity, inclusion and representation in the beauty industry. The brand is constantly uplifting and empowering black women, not only through their products but also by providing a platform for conversations about hair care, identity and self-love.
In addition, the brand’s philanthropic efforts, such as the “More Than a Strand” campaign, have been instrumental in supporting black women entrepreneurs and fostering a sense of community. This campaign helps women gain confidence, develop business acumen and provides a supportive community, aiming to create a lasting legacy of empowerment. Mielle Organics paved the way for more black-owned brands to thrive in an industry both personally and professionally.
Rather than seeing the acquisition as a departure from its roots, Mielle Organics is using this opportunity to strengthen its mission on a global scale. The brand aims to remain a leader in natural hair care while continuing to be a strong voice for diversity and representation in the beauty industry. This commitment ensures that Mielle Organics continues to meet the needs of its core audience while breaking down barriers for other black entrepreneurs in the industry.
Through its growth and expansion, Mielle Organics is a testament to the impact a Black-owned brand can have, both in the beauty industry and in the broader context of entrepreneurship and community empowerment. The brand’s journey shows that success does not have to come at the expense of one’s values or mission and serves as an inspiration to others who want to make a difference.
