Nuskin Enterprises Review - Beauty & Cosmetics MLM | Trust Score & Ratings

Founded1984

HeadquartersProvo, Utah

Trust Score73/100

About Nuskin Enterprises

Nuskin Enterprises is a global direct selling company based in Provo, Utah, founded in 1984. They specialize in personal care products, particularly their ageLOC devices, skincare lines, and Pharmanex supplements.

Their business model runs on a network marketing structure using the Velocity compensation plan. This rewards distributors for personal sales and team performance, but it’s worth noting they’ve faced serious challenges, including a $47M fine in China for pyramid scheme accusations.

With a BBB rating of A- and a Trustpilot score of 2.5/5, Nuskin Enterprises has a mixed reputation. While they’ve made strides in the beauty and wellness sector, potential recruits should weigh the risks involved.

Pros and Cons

✓ Pros

Established Brand
Nu Skin has been around since 1984, making it a well-known name in the MLM space.
Diverse Product Range
They offer a variety of products, including skincare and wellness items, which can appeal to different customers.
Retail Profit Margin
You can earn a retail profit of 25-43% on product sales, which is pretty decent compared to some other MLMs.
Potential Bonuses
The Velocity Plan includes multiple income streams, like leadership bonuses, which can boost earnings if you build a strong team.
A- BBB Rating
Their A- rating from the Better Business Bureau suggests a level of trustworthiness and customer satisfaction.

✗ Cons

Mixed Trustpilot Rating
With a 2.5/5 rating on Trustpilot, many people have had negative experiences.
Pyramid Scheme Accusations
Nu Skin faced accusations of being a pyramid scheme in China, raising eyebrows about their business practices.
Aggressive Recruitment Tactics
Reports of aggressive recruitment tactics may make potential recruits feel pressured or uncomfortable.
Moderate Risk Level
The moderate risk level means there's a chance you might not recoup your investment, especially if you struggle to sell products.
High Competition
The market for skincare and wellness products is saturated, making it tough to stand out.

Verdict: Nu Skin has a long history and a solid product lineup, but the mixed reviews and past controversies raise some red flags. If you’re thinking of joining, do your homework and be wary of the recruitment culture.

Best for: This could be a fit for someone who’s passionate about skincare and wellness and is comfortable with sales. If you’re not into aggressive marketing or risk, you might want to skip it.

Risk Analysis

Nuskin Enterprises shows moderate risk due to past regulatory issues and aggressive recruitment tactics. However, they have a solid product line and a decent BBB rating.

Key Concerns

Pyramid scheme accusations in China high
Nuskin faced accusations of operating a pyramid scheme in China, leading to significant fines.
Aggressive recruitment tactics moderate
Reports indicate Nuskin employs aggressive recruitment strategies, which can lead to high turnover and dissatisfaction among recruits.
$47M fine in 2014 moderate
Nuskin was fined $47M in 2014 for regulatory issues, raising concerns about compliance.

Positive Indicators

Strong product line
Nu Skin offers a range of popular skincare and supplement products, which can drive retail sales.
BBB Rating A-
The company has a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a level of consumer trust.

Consumer Advice: If you're considering joining Nuskin, be aware of the risks linked to recruitment tactics and regulatory issues. Make sure you understand how the compensation plan works and evaluate if the products resonate with you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nuskin Enterprises

Is Nuskin Enterprises a legitimate MLM company?

Yes, Nuskin Enterprises is a legitimate MLM company founded in 1984. They operate in the health and beauty sector, selling skincare products and dietary supplements. However, they've faced pyramid scheme accusations, especially in China, so it's wise to do thorough research.

What products does Nuskin Enterprises sell?

Nuskin Enterprises offers a range of products, including ageLOC devices, skincare products, and Pharmanex dietary supplements. Their products are marketed for anti-aging and overall health, and they often emphasize the science behind their formulations.

How much can you make with Nuskin Enterprises?

Earnings in Nuskin Enterprises vary widely. Retail profits range from 25-43%, while sharing bonuses can be between 5-25% based on your group's sales volume. Many people don't earn significant income, so it's important to set realistic expectations.

Are there complaints about Nuskin Enterprises?

Yes, Nuskin Enterprises has received mixed reviews, with a Trustpilot score of 2.5 out of 5. Many complaints revolve around aggressive recruitment tactics and product pricing, so it's good to read various opinions before diving in.

How does the compensation plan work at Nuskin Enterprises?

Nuskin Enterprises uses a Stairstep Breakaway plan, also known as the Velocity Plan. It rewards personal sales, group sales commissions, and leadership bonuses, which can get complex quickly. Understanding the details is key to maximizing your earnings.

What does it cost to join Nuskin Enterprises?

Joining Nuskin Enterprises typically requires an initial investment for a starter kit, which can range from a few hundred dollars. Be sure to check the latest pricing on their website, as it can change.

What is Nuskin Enterprises' BBB rating?

Nuskin Enterprises has an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau. This indicates a generally positive reputation, but it’s always smart to read the complaints and responses to get a fuller picture.

Are there alternatives to Nuskin Enterprises?

Yes, there are several alternatives to Nuskin Enterprises in the MLM space, like Arbonne and Mary Kay. Each offers different products and compensation plans, so exploring various options can help you find what fits your goals.

Compensation Plan

Plan Type

This is a Stairstep Breakaway plan, which basically means you earn money based on your personal sales and how well your team does. As you build your team and hit certain sales goals, you can earn more bonuses.

How Earnings Work

Retail Profit (25-43%): You make a profit when you sell products like skincare and supplements. The more you sell, the more you earn, with profits ranging from 25% to 43%.
Sharing Bonus (5-25%): Each month, you can earn a bonus based on how much sales your entire group brings in. The percentage you earn increases with higher overall sales.
Building Bonus (5%): You get an extra 5% commission on the sales your personally sponsored team members generate.
Leadership Bonus (5% x 6 generations): If you build a successful team, you can earn 5% from up to six layers of your team members’ groups.
Extra Depth Bonus: For higher ranks (like Blue Diamond and above), there’s an additional 5% bonus on deeper team generations.
Monthly Pool Shares: Top earners get a share of a global bonus pool each month.

Qualification Requirements

You need to make at least 100 Personal Sales Volume (PSV) each month.
To reach the Executive rank, you need over 2,000 Group Sales Volume (GSV) and at least 5 active team members.
Maintain your rank for 3 out of 6 months to keep it.