is Younique MLM a Scam – 7 Reasons Why I Advise Against MLMs

Welcome to our Younique MLM review! 

Established in 2012, the company is a makeup brand known for empowering women through online sales and social media. 

Founded by Derek Maxfield and Melanie Huscroft, it operates on an MLM model where presenters sell products and recruit others.

Is Younique MLM a scam? We’ll discuss this in this review. Also we’ll cover Younique’s founders, MLM structure, sign-up process, products, top sellers, compensation plan, training, and reviews. While it offers a diverse product range, concerns include uncertain earnings, high costs, and a focus on recruitment.

Is Younique MLM a pyramid scheme? Despite being legitimate, the MLM structure has challenges. Share your thoughts do you consider Younique MLM a pyramid scheme, or have you had experience with it? 

Younique mLM Review Summary

Company/Product name: Younique 

Price: $35 to $64 depends on the kit

Founder: Derek Maxfield and Melanie Huscroft

Best For: This is for those interested in learning about the company makeup, its business model, and income opportunities.

Recommendation:  It may suit beauty enthusiasts with strong social media skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, but individuals should be cautious of the challenges, high product costs, and recruitment emphasis inherent in many MLMs.

Rating: 4.2/10

What Is Younique mLM ?

The company is a makeup and beauty brand that was established in 2012 and quickly gained popularity. 

By 2022, they had over 500,000 people selling their products in various parts of the world such as the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

What sets the company apart is their focus on supporting women in their business, and utilizing social media and online parties to connect with new customers and team members. 

When you join the company, you are provided with your own personal website to promote and sell their products. 

As you progress into recruiting, you can expect to receive motivational messages such as “Believe in yourself!” and “Pursue your dreams!”

However, there is a catch. Joining an MLM (multi-level marketing) company like them can be tricky. 

According to the FTC, many individuals do not achieve the success they were hoping for in MLMs. 

This raises the question of whether the company is a reliable method of earning income, or if it is a risky pyramid scheme.

In this review, we will dive into the facts and assess the situation.

Younique mLM Founders

The company was created by two siblings, Derek Maxfield and Melanie Huscroft. 

They wanted to build a business that could help people who have faced childhood struggles find healing and hope. According to the Guardian news story on them – the pair “firmly believe that all women [the company targets women] should feel valued, smart, and empowered through opportunities for personal growth and financial reward!”

Derek, who spent 12 years working with computer programs for big companies, saw a great opportunity in direct marketing. 

His goal was to make a modern digital experience in a regular sales setting. 

Instead of the usual home parties, the company chose a new path with social marketing and online celebrations.

Now, they claim the company Presenters can handle their whole business using their phones a cool and flexible change.

Melanie joined forces with her brother to create a brand-new way of doing direct marketing. 

The company has grown with Melanie’s skills in advertising, art, marketing, purchasing, and sales, all driven by her love for fashion and beauty.

With real people like Derek and Melanie leading the way, the company is a legitimate business. 

But, the big question is does their MLM model lean towards being a pyramid scheme? Let’s find out. 

How Does Younique mLM Work?

So, when you jump on board with the company, you’re not just entering an MLM, it’s a multi-level marketing gig. 

Fancy title, right? But it’s simpler than it sounds. You sign up, and voila, you’re a style consultant think of it as kickstarting your beauty biz, whether it’s from your cozy home or online.

Here’s where the fun begins they hand you a bunch of makeup goodies to sell, and for every sale, you aim to rake in some sweet commissions. 

But wait, there’s an extra layer of awesome you can recruit others in to do the selling, and you become their trusty trainer.

Picture this as the mentor, you not only revel in your recruits’ success but also snag a share of their sales. 

It’s like weaving your makeup kingdom, doesn’t it sound cool?

Now, let’s chat about the buzz around the company being called a “pyramid scheme.” For starters, The Guardian reported that:

Why the fuss?

 It boils down to the hoops you gotta jump through to grab those juicy rewards and payments.

Stay tuned as we unravel the details of these qualifications in the next parts of our Younique MLM review. 

Trust me, it’s a wild ride you won’t want to miss!

What Products Does Younique mLM Sell?

Curious about what the company’s got in store? Well, they’re all about crafting beauty goodies inspired by nature, love, and a dash of science.

Now, when it comes to makeup, they’ve got your eyes covered – think eyeliners, mascaras, and more. 

Slide on down to those lips, and you’ll find lip glosses and lipsticks galore. 

And for your lovely face, they’ve got the essentials like foundation, bronzer, and blusher.

But hey, the fun doesn’t stop there! They’ve also got a skincare lineup that’s worth checking out. 

Picture these masks for a pampering session, cleansers for a fresh start, toners to balance things out, serums for that extra boost, and moisturizers to keep your skin feeling oh-so-smooth.

So, whether you’re glamming up for a night out or giving your skin some TLC, the company got the goods. 

It’s beauty is inspired by nature and sprinkled with a whole lot of love that’s the company way!

What Is Younique MLM Best Product?

Ever heard of the company top seller? It’s the Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes – a lash enhancer that got the crowd cheering when it hit the shelves first.

But wait, there’s more! Some of their other crowd favorites are the Touch Mineral fluid foundation, the Moodstruck Dash liquid lipstick, and the Moodstruck Legendary mascara.

Now, when it comes to being “all-natural,” most of their stuff claims to fall into that category. 

According to the Natural Ingredient Source Facility (NIRC), if about 95% of what’s in the product meets their standards for being natural, they’ll call it “natural.”

As for the FDA, they don’t exactly give makeup the thumbs-up before it hits the market. 

They do check color additives, though, to make sure they’re safe (excluding coal tar hair dyes).

But when it comes to makeup, it’s all about making sure it’s safe to use as directed and that it’s labeled correctly.

The responsibility falls on both the folks selling makeup and the companies making it. 

If the FDA finds something fishy, they’ll step in to protect public health and take action as needed.

Younique Makeup and FDA Approval – What’s the Deal?

There is often confusion about whether the company Makeup has FDA approval. The truth is that the FDA does not directly approve or endorse specific makeup products before they hit the market. However, there are regulations in place to ensure the safety of consumers.

These regulations dictate that makeup products must be safe for their intended use and must have accurate labeling. Both makeup manufacturers and retailers are responsible for complying with these regulations.

If the FDA discovers that a makeup product is unsafe or has misleading labeling, it will take action to ensure that the issue is rectified and that the public is protected.

While there is no “FDA Approved” label for makeup products, consumers can rest assured that the FDA is keeping a watchful eye on the industry and taking action when necessary to ensure our safety.

How To Join Younique mLM?

Looking to dive into the company scene? It’s a breeze! All you need is a buddy, they call them sponsors, to guide you through the sign-up process. 

No worries if you don’t have someone in mind; the company can connect you with a helpful one.

Now, there’s a $35 fee for the starter kit, but they claim, it’s not your run-of-the-mill kit; it’s like your golden ticket to the beauty world.

While you’re eagerly waiting for it to arrive, why not check out the Youniversity Training program? 

It’s like a quick crash course in mastering the ins and outs of your new business venture.

And here’s the cherry on top: once you’re officially on board, you’ll get your very own website complete with an e-commerce shop. 

Imagine that your own online beauty boutique! So, with your starter kit en route and your training underway, you’re all set to kick off your work-from-home journey with the company. 

Younique mLM Training

In today’s digital age, where many people prefer shopping online, the company understands the importance of effective online marketing for building a successful business. 

It’s similar to how big businesses like Amazon thrive through strategies like affiliate marketing.

Given this, the company provides valuable training to its presenters, focusing on popular social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

The goal is to help presenters effectively promote the company products and expand their customer base, ultimately growing their businesses.

But that’s not all the company goes the extra mile by offering ongoing support and training to empower presenters in closing sales successfully. 

The company’s philosophy revolves around mutual success, recognizing that when presenters thrive and increase their earnings, it benefits both the individual presenter and the company as a whole. 

This commitment from the company management not only makes business sense but also reflects a genuine interest in the success and wealth of every presenter, making the partnership with the company a supportive and collaborative journey towards success. 

So, in essence, the company’s approach to business growth is not just exciting but also promises a supportive and thriving partnership for all involved!

How To Make Money With Younique mLM?

Making money with the company boils down to two main things:

1. Selling Products: When you sell their products, you earn a commission for each sale. Simple, right?
2. Building a Team: Another way to earn is by recruiting people into the company. You not only earn from your sales but also get bonuses from the purchases and sales of your recruits.

In my opinion, consistently earning a good income often comes from building a strong team. I’ll share more on potential earnings in the next part of my review.

It’s important to note that the emphasis on recruitment has led some to criticize the company, labeling it as a pyramid scheme or a scam.

Younique mLM Compensation Plan

The company plan has eight color rankings, from White to Black, each with a corresponding commission percentage for each level of ‘Speaker’.

Your status depends on factors like individual retail sales, wholesale sales, and the number of people you recruit and your downline recruits.

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the compensation strategy:

1. Circle Royalties: You earn money when someone you directly recruited sells the company items.
2. First-Generation Aristocracies: You get a cut when someone in your downline recruits and that recruit sells items.
3. Second-Generation Aristocracies: More earnings when someone in the first-generation downline recruits another person who sells their products.
4. Third-Generation Aristocracies: Another layer of income is when the second generation recruits someone who sells items.

The percentage you receive, from 3% to 6%, depends on how many people you recruit and how many of them go on to recruit others.

It’s a flexible plan designed to reward your efforts in building and supporting a successful team. 

So, the more you recruit and then nurture your team, the higher your potential earnings can be, all with less individual effort on your part.

Can You Make Money With Younique mLM?

Stepping into the world of the company online marketing can be a rewarding venture for making money. 

While it’s not a quick fix for financial success, being a company ‘Speaker’ offers the potential for a substantial income with some hard work.

Now, let’s talk about the milestones you can achieve. 

The ultimate goal is reaching Green Status, and here’s how you get there.

You need to consistently sell $500 each month, have three qualified speakers, each making $125 in monthly sales, and collectively hit a circle sales target of $2000 per month. 

Think of it as climbing the ladder of success, with shades of green marking your progress.

However, it’s important to note that there’s a limit to your wholesale income, set at $10,000. 

This cap covers the sales generated by your entire team, including both the people you directly sponsored and those below them.

Once you reach the esteemed Green Status, your compensation takes a significant jump to 30%, and there’s an additional 5% bonus on circle sales. 

It’s like unlocking bonus levels in your money-making journey.

Now, let’s break down the commission structure. You’ll secure a 3% commission on the remaining chunk of your earnings. 

Even if you’re paid at the Green Speaker level, the minimum you can earn is a respectable $490. 

That’s not just spare change; it’s a tangible reward for your dedication.

So, in this journey, the color green signifies not just status but financial growth and potential. 

The key takeaway? With dedication, achieving these milestones means a paycheck that reflects your commitment and success as a Speaker.

How Much Does Younique mLM Cost?

So, when it comes to signing up, the cost to get in the door stands at $35, which is notably less compared to the former $99 required for the business kit. 

But, here’s the kicker joining is just the beginning. To keep the journey going, presenters have to keep the momentum up by making sales of around $125 every three months. 

It’s kind of like the ongoing fuel that keeps the beauty engine running!

Younique mLM Postive and Negative Reviews

Positive Reviews

1. Caring Company: The reviewer loves what the company stands for, emphasizing the caring nature of the company.
2. Skin Benefits: The products have had a positive impact on the reviewer’s skin, helping with dry eczema and enhancing skin glow. The reviewer mentions the effectiveness of the company products and considers them worth the investment.
3. Product Praise: The foundation, pressed powder, and epic mascara receive special mentions, with the reviewer expressing love for their quality.
4. Variety and Recommendation: The variety of cosmetics and positive results on rosacea are highlighted, concluding with a recommendation for the company, especially for those with skin issues.

Negative Reviews:

1. Vicious Company Model: The reviewer, not affiliated with the company, criticizes the company’s model, accusing it of letting women build clients and then removing them, describing it as a petty and jealous business approach.
2. Pyramid Scheme Warning: Strongly warns against signing up, labeling it as a pyramid scheme where only a few at the top benefit, while others, especially vulnerable individuals, may end up in debt.
3. Misleading Product Value: Expresses disappointment with a purchased kit, alleging deceptive marketing of product value and receiving subpar items. Customer service is criticized for ignoring refund requests.

In summary, positive reviews highlight the caring aspect, skin benefits, and quality of products, while negative reviews emphasize concerns about the company’s business model, labeling it as a pyramid scheme, and dissatisfaction with product quality and customer service.

Is Younique mLM A Scam?

Just to be fully transparent with you, I am not connected to Younique myself and I do not endorse it in any way.

I have researched the website, testimonials, and information on the Internet to get to the bottom of what Younique genuinely does. This is because I have been burnt by programs just like this in the past and I want to prevent others from making the same mistakes. If you’d like to learn Ways to Avoid Online Scams then click the highlighted text. 

No, Younique is not a scam. It’s a legit gig where folks sell actual stuff, and when those sales happen, the sellers, known as presenters, pocket some cash following the company’s game plan. However it is arguably akin to a pyramid scheme in disguise given the focus on recruiting people.

But, here’s the scoop, just like other MLM setups, the company and its counterparts throw in a twist: distributors gotta keep buying products to hit certain levels to attempt to snag those sweet commissions.

Now, here’s where the plot thickens. 

This purchasing deal can make distributors splash more cash on products than they can hustle, throwing a wrench into their money-making mojo. 

Keeping the income flowing becomes a bit of a tightrope act. It’s no surprise that lots of folks end up calling it quits on MLM ventures. 

It is arguable that MLMs are akin to pyramid schemes if there is a high cost of entry or if presenters/distributors build up inventory they can’t sell.

Personally, I think if they ditched the whole “buy products to play” rule, we might see more success stories in the world of MLM. What do you think?

What I Like About Younique MLM:

• Diverse Product Range: The company stands out by offering a diverse and high-quality range of beauty products. This allows sellers the flexibility to focus on products they genuinely love, creating a more authentic and engaging sales experience.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Positive feedback from satisfied customers can be a powerful asset for the company sellers. Leveraging these reviews not only boosts confidence in the products but also aids in effectively promoting their eCommerce shops.
• User-Friendly: One of the notable advantages of the company is its user-friendly onboarding process. New sellers can set up their websites immediately upon registration, even before receiving the starter kit. This quick start option enhances accessibility for individuals eager to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.
• Training and Support: The company goes the extra mile by providing comprehensive training in business and marketing. This is particularly beneficial for those who may not have prior expertise in the beauty industry. The availability of support ensures that sellers can navigate the business landscape more effectively and enhance their chances of success.

Concerns I Have About Younique MLM:

• Uncertain Earning Potential: The absence of a clear income disclosure statement from the company introduces an element of uncertainty regarding potential earnings. Prospective sellers may find it challenging to set realistic expectations without this crucial information, necessitating careful consideration.
• High Product Costs: The company products, while of high quality, come with relatively higher price points. This might pose challenges for sellers in convincing potential customers, especially when there are more affordable alternatives available in the market. Effectively communicating the value proposition becomes crucial in overcoming this hurdle.
• Recruitment: While recruiting is a common element in many MLMs, the heavy emphasis on recruitment in the company may potentially overshadow the primary focus on product sales. This could lead to increased competition among sellers, particularly within their immediate social circles, and may limit the reach of their business.
• Declining Popularity: The company declining popularity is a notable concern. In a market where early momentum can significantly impact recruitment efforts, joining a company experiencing a decrease in visibility might pose challenges. Sellers may need to strategize and adapt to this changing landscape. See the Google Trends image below showing declining popularity along with competitor Arbonne International.
• Pyramid Scheme in Disguise: The recruitment-centric nature of the company has led some critics to label it as a “pyramid scheme” in disguise. While the company asserts its legitimacy, potential sellers need to be cautious and conduct thorough research to make informed decisions about their involvement.

In conclusion, prospective participants in the company should carefully weigh these factors, considering their personal goals, market dynamics, and the evolving landscape of the beauty industry. 

An informed decision ensures alignment with individual aspirations and a clearer path toward success in the competitive world of beauty and direct selling.

Is Younique mLM a Pyramid Scheme?

The company does not operate as a pyramid scheme. Instead, it sells products through representatives who can earn income via their websites. 

It’s important to note that not all companies using a similar model operate in the same way. 

Some companies offer products with a high price tag that can be challenging to sell, along with monthly sales quotas for sellers. 

To generate substantial income or avoid financial setbacks, sellers may feel compelled to actively recruit more people into the business structure.

This aspect has led some individuals to believe that the company may be masquerading as a legitimate business while having characteristics of a pyramid scheme.

However, before we dive deeper into this matter, it’s important to establish a common understanding of what constitutes a pyramid scheme. 

What Is a Pyramid Scheme?

A pyramid scheme is a type of business where they promise to pay or offer services if you bring in new people, instead of giving you something tangible like an investment or a product to sell.

Now, why do some folks call the company a pyramid scheme? Well, the main reason is that the key way to make money with the company is by getting a bunch of people to join their marketing plan. 

That’s why some people say it’s like a pyramid scheme in disguise.

Think of it like peeling back layers to understand why people use this label, and when you look closely at how the company works, it becomes clear why some skeptics see it as more than just a regular marketing opportunity. 

Is Younique MLM a Pyramid Scheme in Disguise?

So, just like I mentioned earlier, the company isn’t some tricky scheme trying to pull a fast one on you. 

They pay you based on what you sell and what the people you bring in sell no extra cash just for getting others to join. It’s all straightforward, no sneaky stuff going on.

Let’s be crystal clear here the company all about selling real, everyday products. But whether you think it’s a pyramid scheme or not comes down to how you see these kinds of setups. 

It’s a bit like looking at a puzzle from different angles to figure out if it fits into your picture of things.

Choosing Wisely: Why I Advise Against MLMs and Better Business Paths

Some people find success in multi-level marketing (MLM) ventures, there are several reasons why I don’t generally recommend them.

1. High Failure Rates: MLMs often have high turnover rates, with a significant percentage of participants not achieving the financial success they were promised. Many people end up investing more money than they earn, approximately 99% according to the FTC.
2. Emphasis on Recruitment: In many MLM structures, the focus is heavily placed on recruiting new members rather than selling actual products. This emphasis on recruitment can create a pyramid-like structure, where only those at the top benefit substantially.
3. Product Costs: MLM participants are often required to purchase products to maintain their status and eligibility for commissions. This can lead to financial strain, especially if the products are expensive or difficult to sell.
4. Misleading Income Promises: Some MLMs make exaggerated claims about potential earnings, creating unrealistic expectations. The reality is that only a small percentage of participants achieve significant income, often at the expense of those lower down in the pyramid.
5. Lack of Control: Participants in MLMs often have limited control over their business, as they are bound by the rules and regulations set by the MLM company. Changes in policies or product lines can significantly impact a participant’s ability to succeed.
6. Negative Public Perception: MLMs are often associated with pyramid schemes, and their recruitment-heavy business model has led to a negative public perception. This stigma can make it challenging for individuals involved in MLMs to build a positive personal brand or business reputation.
7. Focus on Recruitment Over Selling: Some MLMs prioritize recruitment over selling actual products, which can lead to a concentration on building a network rather than delivering value to end consumers. This approach can result in products being secondary to recruitment efforts.

It’s important for individuals considering involvement in an MLM to thoroughly research the specific company, understand the compensation structure, and realistically assess the challenges involved. 

Exploring alternative business models that offer more control and stability might be a more reliable path to long-term success.

Final Thoughts

While the company may seem like a pyramid scheme, it is important to note that it is a legitimate company, although with some practical aspects that need to be considered. 

The company network marketing opportunity promises the convenience of earning money from home, managing your website, and supporting fellow women, which sounds great to many. 

However, there are costs associated with joining and staying active in the company, and they are quite interested in getting you to bring in more people.

Though it is possible to make some money with the company, relying entirely on selling their products for a full-time income may be a bit challenging. 

The good news is that there are plenty of simple and honest ways to start an online business where you can share products you genuinely love without the hassle of dealing with shipping, marketing, and payments.

If you’re interested in learning more about establishing a legitimate online business, I encourage you to keep reading this article. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts on the company. 

Now, I am curious to know your perspective do you consider the company to be a pyramid scheme or a scam? 

Have you been a part of it, or are you still involved? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Network Marketing VS Affiliate Marketing

Network Marketing is a business model centered around team-building, where individuals not only earn commissions from their own sales but also from the sales generated by the team they recruit. 

This model often entails direct selling of tangible products or services, with representatives maintaining an active status by purchasing products themselves. 

The success of Network Marketers is closely tied to the performance and reputation of the specific company they are affiliated with.

Network Marketing:

1. Earning Structure: In Network Marketing, individuals build a network by recruiting others into the business. Commissions are earned not only from personal sales but also from the sales made by the people you’ve recruited (your downline).
2. Building Teams: Success often relies on building a team of distributors who sell products or services. The focus is not only on selling but also on recruiting and supporting team members.
3. Products/Services: Network Marketing typically involves selling tangible products or services. Representatives often need to purchase products themselves to remain active and qualify for commissions.
4. Company Ties: Network Marketers are closely associated with a specific company. Their success is tied to the success of that company and its products.

In difference, Affiliate Marketing is a more individualistic approach, wherein affiliates earn commissions by promoting products or services through unique referral links. 

Unlike Network Marketing, there’s no need to build a team, and affiliates work independently, focusing on effective marketing strategies to drive traffic and generate sales. 

Affiliates have the flexibility to collaborate with multiple companies simultaneously, promoting various products or services in alignment with their niche and target audience.

Affiliate Marketing:

1. Earning Structure: Affiliate Marketing is performance-based, with individuals (affiliates) earning a commission for every sale or lead generated through their referral links. The focus is on promoting products or services.
2. Independence: Affiliates work independently, without the need to build a team or recruit others. Success depends on effective marketing and driving traffic to affiliate links.
3. Products/Services: Affiliates promote products or services but don’t handle inventory or purchases directly. They earn commissions for driving traffic or sales to the merchant’s site.
4. Flexibility: Affiliates can work with multiple companies simultaneously, promoting various products or services based on their niche and audience.

Ultimately, the choice between Network Marketing and Affiliate Marketing depends on personal preferences, business goals, and the level of independence one seeks in their entrepreneurial journey. 

Network Marketing emphasizes team collaboration and direct selling, while Affiliate Marketing provides a more flexible and diverse approach to product promotion.

My #1 Online Money Making Alternative

Younique is like your friendly makeup brand, doing things its own way. 

The founders are all about empowerment, but the way they run things, like how much you earn and the costs, might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

The company got some good stuff, like lots of makeup options, an easy way to join, and helpful training. 

But it’s not all smooth sailing it’s been losing some popularity, and some folks wonder if it’s a bit like a pyramid scheme. 

If you’re thinking about joining, take a moment to think about these things and how they match your goals in the beauty world.

Now, let’s switch gears a bit. Ever thought about making money online? 

I earn money online by creating simple affiliate websites that connect people with products they are already looking for.

Imagine boosting your website traffic without spending a dime using clever techniques and great content. 

This training and community shows you how to create content that pulls in visitors without spending money on ads.

And here’s the cool part it focuses on getting free traffic from search engines, setting you up for the long run. 

It’s called affiliate marketing and the best way to make money online in my opinion. If you’re into affiliate marketing, give it a try with a free Starter account. Test out the first five lessons for free, and if you’re feeling it full-time, you can go premium for just $49 per month no commitment is needed at the start.

It’s made for everyone, from beginners to experts, teaching you how to create a strong online presence and great content. 

It’s all about giving you the power to make money online. Ready to make your online dreams come true? 

Click the link below and let’s get started! Share your thoughts in the comments I’m all ears!

About John Stanley

Jоhn іѕ a Fаthеr, Husband, Entrерrеnеur аnd Internet Mаrkеtіng Suрроrt Cоасh. Evеr ѕіnсе hе ѕtаrtеd hіѕ Onlіnе Buѕіnеѕѕ he lоvеѕ wоrkіng frоm аnуwhеrе аnd thе lарtор lіfеѕtуlе. Thіѕ means bеіng сlоѕеr tо our сhіld аѕ ѕhе grоwѕ uр. When hе’ѕ nоt buіldіng wеbѕіtеѕ, hе’ѕ ѕреndіng рrесіоuѕ time wіth оur lіttlе girl аnd fаmіlу, еxеrсіѕіng аnd еnjоуѕ trаvеlіng. Follow me: Twitter · Instagram · Facebook