Our Story
From Personal Struggle to Purpose-Driven Solution
Born from necessity and crafted with care, Mijo® Hair Care began with a simple mission: to create truly clean salon-quality hair products for those with sensitive skin.
Our founder, Debi Gonzalez Seligmann, spent years struggling with allergic dermatitis and skin sensitivities. With a background in nutrition science and pharmaceutical research, she understood the profound connection between ingredients and wellness. The turning point came when an allergist revealed that fragrances in everyday products were a major culprit behind her lifelong skin issues.
When Debi's children began experiencing similar sensitivities, her search for fragrance-free options that actually worked—and felt good to use—came up empty. That's when she decided to take matters into her own hands.
A Labor of Love and Science
What began in 2014 as personal experimentation soon evolved into something much bigger. Drawing on her STEM background, Debi meticulously researched each ingredient, developing formulas that were not just effective but truly gentle.
Her first product testers? Her own children—her "mijos"—who inspired both the brand's name and its unwavering commitment to safety. Through years of trial and refinement, Mijo® developed formulations that worked not just for Debi's family, but for countless others seeking truly clean, effective hair care.
What Makes Us Different
At Mijo®, "clean beauty" isn't just marketing—it's our foundation. We're uncompromising in our standards:
- Absolutely no fragrances (not even "natural" or masking ones)
- No petroleum-based ingredients
- No silicones
- No harsh preservatives
- No sulfates
- No forever chemicals
Our products cleanse gently yet thoroughly—essential for maintaining scalp health, which directly impacts hair growth and strength.
Beyond ingredient integrity, we're committed to environmental responsibility. Every Mijo® product comes in aluminum bottles with heat-attached labels (no toxic glues). Even our shipping materials are made from recycled content, reflecting our holistic approach to caring for people and the planet.
The Meaning Behind Our Name
"Mijo" and "Mija" are terms of endearment in Mexican-American families, meaning "my son" or "my daughter." Growing up in South Texas in a Mexican-American family, these words represented love and protection to Debi. Even today, her 91-year-old mother still calls her "Mija."
When creating this brand, Debi drew inspiration from her own children—her "mijos"—who were not only her first product testers but the motivation behind her quest for better solutions. The name embodies what this brand stands for: personal care rooted in love, inclusion, and heritage.
Our Promise
Every Mijo® product is created with intention and care. We understand the frustration of sensitive skin and the search for products that actually work without causing reactions. That's why we're dedicated to creating formulas that support scalp health, promote hair growth, and help you feel confident in your personal care choices.
We believe everyone deserves hair care that's truly clean, effective, and feels good to use. That's not just our business—it's personal.
Debi Gonzalez Seligmann, Founder & Formulator
