Younique is a Utah-based beauty and cosmetics company founded in 2012 by siblings Derek Maxfield and Melanie Huscroft. The company operates on a direct sales model, commonly known as multi-level marketing (MLM), where independent sellers, called "Presenters," earn commissions by selling Younique products and recruiting others to do the same. Younique is known for its mission to empower and uplift women globally, and it supports the Younique Foundation, which helps survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Younique's Product Range
Younique offers a wide range of makeup, skincare, and beauty tools. Some of its standout products include the Moodstruck Epic 4D Mascara, which promises voluminous lashes, and the Touch Spray Foundation, designed for lightweight, full-coverage wear. The company emphasizes that its products are free from parabens, sulfates, and animal testing, and it has incorporated innovative features like virtual try-on rooms for makeup.
However, customer feedback on the products is mixed. While some users appreciate the variety and innovation, others feel that the quality doesn’t always justify the higher prices. As one reviewer noted, "The mascara was good, but I experienced flaking after a few hours. Given the price, I expected more". Similarly, the foundation has been criticized for issues like color oxidation and fading after a few hours of wear.
How Younique's Business Model Works
Younique operates as an MLM, where members sell products directly to consumers and earn additional income by recruiting others. The startup cost to become a Presenter is relatively low, typically around $35 to $99, which includes a product starter kit. Presenters also gain access to training, a personal e-commerce website, and commission payments through Younique’s PayQuicker system, often touted for being fast and efficient.
Despite these perks, many Presenters report challenges in meeting sales quotas, which require at least $125 in sales every three months to stay active. A large portion of the earnings comes from recruiting others, and the steep competition, especially on social media, can make it hard to grow a downline. As a former Presenter stated, "The pressure to recruit overshadowed the focus on selling the products, which made it difficult to earn".
Pros of Joining Younique
- Low Startup Cost: Compared to other MLMs, Younique has a relatively low cost to join, and the starter kits provide a good variety of products.
- Instant Commissions: Presenters benefit from quick commission payouts through the PayQuicker system.
- Supportive Community: Younique provides access to training and a support network, helping members improve their sales skills.
- Charitable Mission: Younique's involvement with the Younique Foundation adds a philanthropic element to the business.
Cons of Joining Younique
- Steep Competition: With over a million Presenters, the market is highly saturated, especially on social media platforms where promotion is crucial.
- Pressure to Recruit: Many members feel that success in the business depends more on recruitment than on actual product sales, leading to criticism that the model mirrors a pyramid scheme.
- Mandatory Sales Quotas: Presenters must meet a minimum sales target of $125 every three months, which can be difficult for those who don’t have a large customer base.
- Mixed Product Reviews: While some products, like the mascara, are praised, others, like the foundation, receive criticism for quality issues and are often seen as overpriced compared to drugstore alternatives.
Conclusion
Younique offers a genuine business opportunity for those interested in the beauty industry, with the added benefit of a strong community and charity involvement. However, success in this MLM largely hinges on your ability to recruit and sell in a highly competitive market. If you are confident in your social media marketing skills and can navigate the challenges of sales quotas, Younique might be a good fit. For those solely interested in product sales, other business models may offer less pressure and a clearer path to profit.