Oriflame is a Swedish multi-level marketing (MLM) company that has been in business since 1967, specializing in beauty and wellness products. The company operates in over 60 markets worldwide and is particularly popular in Europe, India, and parts of Asia. Oriflame offers a wide range of skincare, cosmetics, personal care, and wellness products, claiming to draw inspiration from natural ingredients and Swedish beauty traditions.
Business Model
Oriflame uses an MLM structure, meaning members earn through direct sales and recruitment. When joining as a consultant, you get discounts on products, and you can sell these at full price to customers, earning a commission. You can also build a team of recruits (called your downline) and earn bonuses based on their sales performance. This combination of direct sales and team-building is common in MLMs.
Oriflame Product Reviews
Oriflame's products generally receive positive feedback, particularly in skincare and wellness. For example, the Tender Care Protecting Balm is one of their top-rated products, with users praising its versatility for dry skin and minor ailments like chapped lips. However, some reviewers feel that the concentration of botanical ingredients, which Oriflame markets heavily, is quite low, with many products relying more on silicones and synthetic fragrances. This may be problematic for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin, as silicones can trap dirt and oil, exacerbating issues(The Dermatology Review).
While many customers appreciate the company's variety of products, some feel that the pricing can be high, particularly when compared to similar brands available in retail stores. (The Dermatology Review).
Pros of Joining Oriflame
- Affordable Start: Joining Oriflame as a consultant is relatively inexpensive. You don't need to make any major investments upfront, and the cost of entry (such as purchasing catalogs) is low.
- Flexibility in Sales: You can earn solely through retail commissions without needing to recruit others. This allows you to stay independent if you're not interested in building a team.
- Product Range: Oriflame offers a wide variety of products across beauty and wellness categories, which are well-received globally.
- Training and Support: The company provides training and sales tools for free, which is helpful for those new to marketing and sales. (The Dermatology Review).
Cons of Joining Oriflame
- MLM Structure: While you can earn through retail alone, advancing within the company and earning higher bonuses usually requires building a team. This recruitment-focused model has led to criticisms that the structure resembles a pyramid scheme.
- Competitive Market: Oriflame operates in the highly competitive beauty industry, alongside giants like Avon and Mary Kay. This can make it difficult to stand out, especially for new consultants without an extensive network.
- Inconsistent Product Quality: While many customers enjoy the products, some reviewers note that the heavy reliance on silicones and fragrances in skincare might not suit everyone, particularly those with sensitive skin.
- Limited U.S. Presence: Oriflame does not operate in the U.S., which limits the opportunities for consultants based there, although products are available via third-party retailers..
Final Thoughts
Oriflame can be a good opportunity for people passionate about beauty and wellness who are comfortable with direct sales. The ability to earn through retail commissions without needing to recruit others is a plus, but for those aiming to build a sustainable income, recruitment plays a significant role. The quality of the products is generally well-regarded, though some skincare items may not suit everyone. If you’re considering joining Oriflame, it’s essential to understand the MLM structure and how it aligns with your goals.