The Mahdeen Company originated in John Lewis Needham's bathtub. In 1907, the Texan barber began experimenting and created and bottled a hair tonic and dandruff remedy in his home for use in his corner shop in Nacogdoches, Texas. He intended to sell the products locally until he met savvy NY salesman Frank Aiman who saw a lucrative business opportunity. The two formed a partnership and in 1912 The Mahdeen Company (Needham spelled backwards), was born to expand the business. After Needham's death in 1918, Aikman took full control, moving operations to a new facility where Mahdeen thrived.

Under Aikman's leadership, Mahdeen's profits grew, allowing for significant philanthropic contributions to the city. The company continued to prosper even through World War II, introducing the popular Mahdeen Shampoo in 1940. In 1965, after decades of success, Mahdeen was sold to Owen Laboratories and relocated to Dallas, marking the end of an era for Nacogdoches' oldest industry. The company was eventually acquired by Mahdeen Mediceuticals and is now owned and operated by Mahdeen Beauty International, a Canadian-based company. In addition to other professional hair care products, such as ACV mousse, and skin astringent, Mahdeen continues to sell Medi-Dan Anti-Flake shampoo, a refreshed and rebranded take on the original formula. John Lewis Needham is smiling😊.