BeCause Cosmetics is a relatively new direct sales company founded in 2017 by Andrew McBride. Its mission is to empower women through beauty while making a positive impact on the world by donating a portion of profits to non-profits selected by their brand ambassadors. The company sells a variety of beauty products, including makeup for the eyes, lips, face, as well as skincare and body care products. They aim to stand out by combining beauty with purpose, providing their ambassadors with the opportunity to give back through their sales.
The Products
BeCause Cosmetics offers a range of cosmetics that include eyeshadows, mascaras, lipsticks, foundations, and more. Customers have praised the quality of the products, which are cruelty-free and comply with both U.S. and European safety standards. For those who love clean beauty, the brand’s use of natural ingredients is a big plus. One member noted, "The products are top-notch, and I truly love what this company stands for" (Kelli Lookabaugh).
In addition to individual products, the company offers subscription boxes tailored to customers' beauty preferences, providing a convenient and curated experience.
The Business Model
BeCause Cosmetics operates as a multi-level marketing (MLM) company, where affiliates can earn commissions on sales and bonuses from recruiting others to join. The commission structure starts at 20% for regular affiliates and can go up to 35% for higher-ranking ambassadors. The company also provides a unique incentive where a portion of the profits from sales is donated to a cause selected by the ambassadors.
Starting as an affiliate requires purchasing a starter kit, which can range from $59 to $199 depending on the chosen package. These kits include beauty products, promotional materials, and business tools to help new affiliates get started. The company also offers a personalized website for affiliates to sell through, though some users have noted that the website could benefit from modern design improvements.
Pros of Joining BeCause Cosmetics
- Low Startup Cost: The initial cost to join is relatively low, with starter kits beginning at $59, which makes it accessible to those who are interested in starting a side business without a significant financial commitment.
- High-Quality Products: Affiliates and customers alike have given positive reviews about the quality of BeCause's products. They appreciate that the products are cruelty-free and made from natural ingredients.
- Mission-Driven: One of the standout features of BeCause Cosmetics is its commitment to giving back. A portion of all sales goes to a non-profit organization selected by its ambassadors, which can be a great selling point.
- Flexible Work Options: As an affiliate, you can work from home, set your own schedule, and decide how much you want to engage with the business. For some, it’s a nice way to earn extra income.
Cons of Joining BeCause Cosmetics
- MLM Business Model: Like many MLMs, BeCause Cosmetics requires affiliates to not only sell products but also recruit others to achieve higher commissions. The MLM model has been criticized for its low success rate, with many participants struggling to make substantial income. One review pointed out, “The success rate in MLMs is generally low, and BeCause doesn't have income disclosure statements, which makes it hard to assess how profitable it can be for most affiliates.”
- Competitive Industry: The beauty industry is highly competitive, with established brands like Mary Kay, Avon, and Younique also operating under the MLM model. Newer companies like BeCause Cosmetics face stiff competition, making it harder for affiliates to gain a strong foothold in the market.
- Limited Training: Some reviews noted that the company provides limited training and resources for affiliates, which can make it challenging for those new to direct sales or MLM businesses to succeed without proper guidance.
- Low Brand Recognition: Since BeCause Cosmetics is still a young company, it lacks the name recognition that competitors enjoy. This can make it more challenging for affiliates to sell the products and build a customer base.
Final Thoughts
BeCause Cosmetics offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in beauty products and making a difference through charitable donations. The company's mission is commendable, and the quality of its products has been well-received. However, the challenges of succeeding in the MLM model, coupled with the highly competitive beauty industry, should be carefully considered before becoming an affiliate. For those passionate about beauty and charity, BeCause could be a good fit. However, those looking for significant income might find the MLM structure limiting unless they are highly experienced in sales and recruitment.
As one reviewer put it, “It’s a wonderful company for those who believe in the mission, but like any MLM, it requires serious dedication and effort to see meaningful financial returns.”