If you’ve ever been approached by a friend or family member about joining the Mary Kay MLM, you’re probably curious about whether this opportunity is as lucrative as it sounds. With promises of financial freedom and a flexible lifestyle, it’s no wonder that many are drawn to the idea of becoming a Mary Kay consultant. However, before diving in, it’s essential to understand exactly what you’re getting into.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the ins and outs of Mary Kay’s business model, its product offerings, and whether it’s truly possible to make money with this beauty giant. Whether you’re considering joining the Mary Kay MLM or you’re just curious about how it works, this review will provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.
We’ll cover everything from the history of Mary Kay to its compensation plan, and we’ll also look at what current and former consultants have to say about their experiences. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear picture of whether Mary Kay is the right opportunity for you—or if there might be a better way to achieve your financial goals.
Disclaimer: This Mary Kay MLM review has been thoroughly researched with information and testimonials that are available online to anyone in the public. Any conclusions drawn from that information are my own opinions.
Mary Kay MLM Review Overview
Product Name: Mary Kay MLM
Owner: Richard R. Rogers
Product Type: Cosmetics, Skin Care Products MLM
Price: $130 Starter Kit + $75/month
Best For: If You Love Their Products & Are Good At Selling/Networking
Pros
- Proven History
- Positive Product Reviews
- Global Brand Recognition
- Upward Trend in Popularity
Cons
- Expensive Products
- Hidden Monthly Expenses
- Potential to Resemble Pyramid Scheme
- Saturated Market
- Low Earnings for Most Consultants
Quick Summary
Mary Kay is one of the most well-known MLM companies in the beauty industry, offering a range of skincare and cosmetic products. Founded in 1963, the company has a long history and a global presence, which lends it credibility and recognition. However, despite its reputable brand and high-quality products, the Mary Kay MLM business model has its challenges, particularly for those who are not skilled in sales or recruitment. While the opportunity to earn a 50% profit margin on product sales is appealing, the reality is that most consultants struggle to make significant income, often facing hidden costs and the pressure to meet monthly sales quotas.
The business model heavily emphasizes recruitment, which can make it difficult for consultants to succeed without building a large downline. This focus on recruitment has led some to question whether Mary Kay is a pyramid scheme in disguise, though the company does offer legitimate products and opportunities for those who are able to excel in direct sales. Unfortunately, the majority of consultants earn very little, and many end up spending more on products and business expenses than they actually make, which can be discouraging.
Overall, Mary Kay may be a viable option for those with a passion for beauty products and a strong network for sales, but it’s not without risks. If you’re looking for a more stable and scalable way to earn money online, alternative models like affiliate marketing might be worth considering. In this review, we’ve covered the key aspects of Mary Kay’s MLM structure, products, and earning potential to help you make an informed decision about whether this opportunity is right for you.
Recommended? No, There Are Much Better Options Out There Than MLM
Table of Contents
Is Mary Kay MLM a Scam?
No, Mary Kay isn’t a scam. The company sells real and legitimate products and pays its members as promised. However, some people might label it a scam due to the disappointment they feel when they realize they’re losing more money than they’re earning, particularly because they have to buy their own products if they don’t meet the sales quota.
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What is Mary Kay MLM?
Mary Kay is a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) company that manufactures and sells skincare and cosmetic products. Founded by Mary Kay Ash in 1963 with an initial investment of $5,000, the company started as a small beauty shop in Dallas with just nine products and nine employees. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most well-established MLM cosmetics companies, with over a million beauty consultants and sales members globally.
Mary Kay’s product line has expanded significantly from its original offerings. Today, it includes a wide range of skincare, makeup, and fragrance products designed to cater to diverse beauty needs. The company emphasizes the quality of its products, often promoting their scientific backing and dermatological testing. Despite the focus on product quality, Mary Kay’s business model is heavily tied to the recruitment of new members, which is a common characteristic of MLMs.
Here’s a 2-minute video about Mary Kay…
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Who Owns Mary Kay MLM?
Mary Kay Ash, an American businesswoman, founded Mary Kay Cosmetics in 1963. She was a pioneer in the MLM industry and is often referred to as the mother of all MLMs. At the time of her death in 2001, she was worth $98 million, and her company had grown into a global brand.
Today, Mary Kay Cosmetics is still a privately held company, run by her son, Richard R. Rogers, who serves as the executive chairman. Under his leadership, Mary Kay has continued to expand its global reach, maintaining a presence in over 30 countries with more than $1.2 billion in sales.
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Is Mary Kay MLM a Pyramid Scheme?
No, Mary Kay is not a pyramid scheme. Members can earn money by selling beauty products without needing to recruit others. However, like many MLMs, Mary Kay’s structure strongly incentivizes recruitment, leading to questions about whether it might be a pyramid scheme in disguise.
What is a Pyramid Scheme?
A pyramid scheme is an illegal business model that primarily compensates members for recruiting others into the organization rather than for selling products or services. In these schemes, recruitment is prioritized over product sales, and because the structure is unsustainable, most participants inevitably lose money. Pyramid schemes are banned in many countries due to their exploitative nature.
Is Mary Kay a Pyramid Scheme in Disguise?
While Mary Kay sells legitimate products, the pressure to recruit new members and meet sales quotas can make the business resemble a pyramid scheme. Members must sell a certain amount of products each month to remain active, and those who fail to meet these quotas may end up purchasing products themselves to avoid losing their status, which shifts the focus from retail sales to recruitment. This model raises concerns about the sustainability and ethics of the business.
Here’s a 5-minute video that helps identify “pyramid schemes in disguise.”
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How Does Mary Kay MLM Work?
Mary Kay operates as a direct selling company using a multi-level marketing (MLM) model. The company’s structure allows individuals to become independent beauty consultants, purchasing products at wholesale prices and selling them at retail prices for a profit. However, the business model goes beyond simple product sales.
When someone joins Mary Kay, they typically purchase a starter kit, which includes a selection of products and marketing materials to help them begin their business. Consultants are then encouraged to build a customer base by selling these products directly to consumers, often through parties, demonstrations, or personal networks.
The key to Mary Kay’s MLM model is the potential to earn additional income through recruiting others to become consultants. When a consultant recruits new members, they can earn commissions on the sales made by their recruits, known as their “downline.” This structure creates multiple levels of compensation, hence the term “multi-level marketing.”
However, the recruitment-driven nature of the business means that success often hinges more on building a large downline than on selling products. This can lead to a focus on recruitment over retail sales, which is a common criticism of MLM companies.
While the idea of working from home and being your own boss is appealing, the reality is that many Mary Kay consultants struggle to make a significant income. The company saves on marketing costs by having consultants promote and sell the products themselves, but this also places the financial risk on the consultants, who must meet sales quotas to stay active in the business.
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What Products Does Mary Kay MLM Sell?
Mary Kay offers a wide range of skincare, makeup, and body care products designed to address various beauty needs. Their product line is well-known for its quality and effectiveness, catering to different skin types and concerns.
Here are some of the key product categories and bestsellers:
- Skincare Products
- TimeWise® Miracle Set 3D™: This is one of Mary Kay’s flagship products, designed to fight the signs of aging. The set includes a 4-in-1 cleanser, day cream, night cream, and an eye cream, each formulated to protect and enhance skin’s natural beauty.
- Mary Kay Clinical Solutions®: A line that includes advanced skincare treatments like the PHA + AHA Resurfacer, aimed at improving skin texture and tone.
- Botanical Effects® Skin Care: A simpler, plant-based skincare line designed for those looking for gentle, natural ingredients.
- Makeup Products
- Mary Kay Unlimited® Lip Gloss: Available in a wide range of shades, this product is a customer favorite for its vibrant color and long-lasting wear.
- TimeWise® 3D Foundation: A foundation that not only provides coverage but also includes age-defying benefits, available in multiple shades to suit different skin tones.
- Body & Sun Care
- Satin Hands® Set: A popular hand care set that includes a hand scrub, nourishing cream, and a softener, perfect for achieving silky smooth hands.
- Mary Kay® Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30: A lightweight sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, ideal for daily use.
Mary Kay also offers various special collections, including seasonal items and limited editions, as well as a robust line of men’s skincare and fragrances (Mary Kay | Official Site) (Mary Kay | Official Site) (Mary Kay | Official Site).
Check out this 3-minute video about their products…
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How Much Does it Cost to Join the Mary Kay MLM?
Joining Mary Kay as an independent beauty consultant involves an initial investment, along with ongoing costs to maintain your active status within the company.
1. Initial Signup Cost:
To become a Mary Kay consultant, you must purchase the Mary Kay Starter Kit, which now costs $130. This kit includes a selection of products and marketing materials designed to help you begin your business.
Additionally, there are optional add-ons:
- Mary Kay eStart: A digital starter option available for $30, which allows you to start your business online.
- New Beauty Consultant Sample Pack Add-on: Available for $45, offering additional product samples to help you showcase the Mary Kay product line.
Upon joining, you also gain access to a 50% discount on all Mary Kay products, which you can purchase at wholesale prices and sell at retail prices for a profit.
2. Monthly Maintenance Costs:
To remain an active consultant and be eligible to earn commissions, you must meet a minimum sales requirement known as Personal Production Volume (PPV). This typically means selling at least 70 PPV worth of products each month, equivalent to approximately $75. If you do not meet this quota through sales, you will need to purchase the products yourself to maintain your active status.
3. Annual Cost Overview:
When you add up the costs, the minimum expense for the first year with Mary Kay is approximately $1,060. This total includes:
- $130 for the Starter Kit.
- $75 x 12 = $900 for the monthly sales quota over 12 months.
- Optionally, you may also choose the eStart for $30 or the Sample Pack Add-on for $45.
It’s important to note that this figure does not account for additional costs such as:
- Training: Fees for attending Mary Kay training events or purchasing educational materials.
- Marketing: Costs associated with promoting your business, such as buying business cards, maintaining a website, or running ads.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Other expenses may include travel for meetings, hosting product parties, or purchasing product samples.
These ongoing costs highlight the financial commitment required to be a Mary Kay consultant. While the potential to earn a profit exists, especially with successful product sales and recruitment, it’s crucial to be aware of the initial and recurring expenses to ensure that the business aligns with your financial goals.
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Mary Kay MLM Compensation Plan Explained
The Mary Kay compensation plan can be complex and somewhat difficult to understand, but it revolves around three primary ways of earning income:
- Direct Sales: Consultants earn a 50% profit on the retail price of products sold. This means that if a consultant sells a product for $100, they keep $50 as their profit. This is one of the highest profit margins offered in the MLM industry, which can be appealing to new recruits. However, this profit is only realized if the consultant can actually sell the products at full retail price, which can be challenging given the competitive nature of the beauty market.
- Downline Sales: Consultants can earn a commission on the sales made by their downline. The exact percentage varies depending on the consultant’s rank and the performance of their downline, but typically starts at around 4%. This means that if a downline member sells $1,000 worth of products, the upline consultant might earn $40. As consultants build larger teams, the potential for earning commissions on downline sales increases.
- Team Building Bonuses: Mary Kay offers bonuses ranging from $50 to $3,000 for consultants who achieve certain ranks or help their recruits achieve certain sales milestones. These bonuses are designed to incentivize recruitment and team growth, as consultants must recruit new members and help them succeed in order to reach higher ranks and earn these bonuses.
The compensation plan is designed to encourage not just product sales but also recruitment. While it’s possible to earn money through direct sales alone, the most lucrative opportunities often come from building and managing a large team. This can be a double-edged sword: while it offers the potential for higher earnings, it also means that those who struggle to recruit may find it difficult to advance in the company or earn substantial income.
Want to know more, you can check out this 11-minute video:
Alternatively, here’s the link to their income disclosure here
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Can You Make Money With Mary Kay?
Yes, it is possible to make money with Mary Kay, but it’s important to understand the challenges and limitations. According to the most recent income disclosure from Mary Kay, the vast majority of consultants earn very little money. In fact, the income disclosure indicates that over 90% of active Mary Kay consultants make less than $10,000 per year, with many earning less than $1,000 annually.
To put this in perspective, a typical consultant might spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on products, marketing materials, and other business expenses each year, which can easily outweigh their earnings. Moreover, the pressure to maintain active status by meeting monthly sales quotas can lead to consultants purchasing products themselves, further reducing their profit margins.
Mary Kay Income Disclosure Highlights:
- Top 1% of Consultants: Earn significant income, often exceeding $100,000 per year, but this group is very small.
- Middle 30% of Consultants: Earn modest income, generally between $1,000 and $10,000 per year. For many, this might equate to part-time income, but the effort required can be substantial.
- Bottom 69% of Consultants: Earn less than $1,000 per year, with many losing money due to business expenses and product purchases.
These figures illustrate that while there is potential for high earnings, it is realized by a very small percentage of consultants. The majority of participants earn little to no profit, and many lose money. Therefore, while you can technically make money with Mary Kay, it is challenging and far from guaranteed. Success often requires aggressive sales tactics, consistent recruitment, and a willingness to invest significant time and money into the business.
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Mary Kay MLM Online Reviews
When evaluating whether to join Mary Kay as a consultant, it’s essential to consider the experiences of others who have been involved with the company. Online reviews provide valuable insights into the real-life experiences of Mary Kay consultants and customers. These reviews can help you understand the potential benefits and challenges of the business, as well as the general satisfaction with the products and the MLM opportunity.
Below are some common positive and negative reviews found online, followed by a YouTube review that offers a more detailed perspective.
Mary Kay MLM Positive Reviews
- “Enjoyed working there; everyone is so friendly and welcoming at the office. They take good care of their employees and have a very diverse culture.”
- “You get out what you put into it. You can work around your life, whether it’s your job, family, or hobbies. Mary Kay is flexible and can be done part-time or full-time.”
These positive reviews highlight the flexibility and supportive work environment that some consultants appreciate. The ability to manage Mary Kay as a part-time or full-time job, depending on personal circumstances, is a recurring theme among satisfied members.
Mary Kay MLM Negative Reviews
- “The salary seemed good at first, but the workload required was overwhelming. Micromanagement was an issue, and the pay didn’t justify the responsibilities.”
- “I was forced to work my shift if no one else was available, which felt unreasonable. The company is great, but there are department issues that need to be resolved.”
On the other hand, negative reviews often mention the high workload and the pressure to meet sales quotas. Some consultants feel that the compensation does not match the effort required, leading to dissatisfaction and frustration.
YouTube Review on Mary Kay MLM
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of what it’s like to be a part of Mary Kay, it’s helpful to watch reviews from those who have firsthand experience. Here’s a detailed YouTube review that delves into both the positive aspects and challenges of being a Mary Kay consultant:
This video review provides an in-depth analysis of the business model, product quality, and the realities of earning money with Mary Kay. It’s an excellent resource for anyone considering joining the company, offering an unbiased perspective on the pros and cons of the opportunity.
Reviewing YouTube further though, there are plenty of videos that are also explaining why they quit Mary Kay too. Here’s an example:
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Mary Kay MLM Review: Pros
Before deciding whether to join Mary Kay, it’s essential to consider the benefits the company offers. Below are some of the main advantages of being part of Mary Kay:
#1 Proven History
Mary Kay has a long-standing history as a successful MLM company.
Founded in 1963, Mary Kay has been in business for over 60 years, which is a testament to its stability and resilience in the competitive beauty industry. This longevity provides potential consultants with a sense of security, knowing they are joining a well-established company that isn’t likely to disappear overnight. The company’s reputation as a pioneer in direct selling adds credibility, making it easier for consultants to market products and recruit others.
#2 Positive Product Reviews
Many customers and consultants have shared positive experiences with Mary Kay products.
Mary Kay products, particularly their skincare and cosmetics, have garnered a loyal customer base over the years. Many users report satisfaction with the effectiveness of the products, citing improvements in their skin and overall appearance. Positive reviews can significantly aid consultants in selling these products, as word-of-mouth and testimonials are powerful tools in driving sales. Moreover, Mary Kay often emphasizes the scientific backing of their products, which can appeal to consumers looking for quality skincare solutions.
#3 Global Brand Recognition
Mary Kay is a well-known brand with a presence in over 30 countries.
As a global brand, Mary Kay enjoys widespread recognition, which can make it easier for consultants to attract customers. The brand’s international presence means that it has been vetted by various markets and has managed to maintain a consistent image worldwide. This global reach also means that Mary Kay products are accessible to a broad audience, allowing consultants to expand their customer base beyond local borders through online sales and social media marketing.
#4 Upward Trend in Popularity
Mary Kay continues to enjoy interest and popularity, as evidenced by search trends.
Despite the saturated beauty market, Mary Kay remains relevant, with many people still searching for the brand and its products online. This sustained interest indicates that there is still demand for what Mary Kay offers, which is a positive sign for those considering joining the company. Consultants can leverage this trend by tapping into existing brand recognition and consumer interest, which can make marketing and sales efforts more straightforward.
Mary Kay MLM Review: Cons
While Mary Kay has its advantages, it’s also important to consider the challenges and potential downsides. Here are some of the significant cons of being involved with Mary Kay:
#1 Expensive Products
Mary Kay products are often priced higher than similar products from other brands.
One of the most common criticisms of Mary Kay is the high cost of its products. While the quality is generally good, the prices can be a barrier for both consultants and customers. In a highly competitive market where many brands offer similar products at lower prices, selling Mary Kay products can be challenging. High prices may also lead to consultants relying more on recruitment to earn commissions, as it may be difficult to sell products at full retail price consistently.
#2 Hidden Monthly Expenses
Consultants must meet monthly sales quotas to remain active, which can lead to hidden costs.
To stay active and eligible for commissions, Mary Kay consultants must sell a minimum amount of products each month (typically around $75 worth). If they fail to meet this quota, they may need to purchase the products themselves, which can quickly add up. These hidden costs can erode profits and, in some cases, lead to financial losses, especially for those who struggle to make sales. This requirement places significant pressure on consultants, often leading them to recruit others to maintain their status.
#3 Potential to Resemble a Pyramid Scheme
The heavy emphasis on recruitment over product sales raises concerns about the business model.
While Mary Kay is not technically a pyramid scheme, the structure and incentives can sometimes resemble one. Consultants earn commissions not only from their sales but also from the sales of their recruits. This creates a strong incentive to focus on recruitment rather than retail sales, which is a hallmark of pyramid schemes. The need to recruit to avoid losing money or to advance in the company can lead to ethical concerns and potential legal scrutiny, particularly in markets where pyramid schemes are strictly regulated.
#4 Saturated Market
The beauty industry is highly competitive, with many similar products and companies.
Mary Kay operates in a crowded market with numerous competitors, both within the MLM space and in the broader beauty industry. This saturation means that consultants face stiff competition not only from other Mary Kay consultants but also from well-established brands in retail stores and online. Additionally, the large number of existing Mary Kay consultants can make it difficult for new entrants to find untapped customer bases, leading to challenges in generating consistent sales.
#5 Low Earnings for Most Consultants
Only a small percentage of Mary Kay consultants earn a substantial income.
According to Mary Kay’s income disclosure, the majority of consultants earn very little, with many making less than $1,000 per year. The disparity between the top earners and the average consultant is significant, with only a tiny fraction of participants earning enough to make a full-time income. This reality highlights the challenges of succeeding in Mary Kay, where the odds of earning a substantial income are low. The emphasis on recruitment and meeting sales quotas can make it difficult for the average person to achieve financial success within the company.
Mary Kay MLM Review: Conclusion
Mary Kay has a long-standing reputation in the MLM industry, backed by decades of history and a globally recognized brand. The company offers high-quality skincare and cosmetics products, which many customers and consultants genuinely enjoy. Its compensation plan, with a 50% profit margin on direct sales, is one of the more generous in the MLM space, and the opportunity to work from home with flexible hours is appealing to many.
However, it’s essential to approach the opportunity with realistic expectations. The majority of Mary Kay consultants earn little to no income, with many finding that their expenses—such as product purchases to meet sales quotas—can outweigh their earnings. The heavy emphasis on recruitment over product sales can also make the business model challenging for those who prefer selling products rather than building a team. The potential for financial loss, coupled with the competitive and saturated beauty market, means that success in Mary Kay is far from guaranteed.
While Mary Kay is not a scam, it’s clear that the business model may not be suitable for everyone. If you’re passionate about skincare and cosmetics and have a strong network to sell to, Mary Kay might be worth exploring. However, if you’re looking for a more stable and predictable way to make money online, there are other options available that might be a better fit.
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