Melaleuca?
- Thread starter Beavs
- Start date
Liann
Cathlete
Beavs - It is a "legit" business, but so is Amway and Quixstar (don't get me started on Quixstar!). You have to pay a membership fee to sell for them and meet a monthly minimum and you have to buy a certain amount of product every month to keep your "Preferred Status". It sounds a lot like Quixstar to me and both me and my DH have lost friends over that company. I don't think it's a scam per say, but it's still in the same league as Amway. Oh, and they test on animals if that's a problem for your friend.
Here are a few first person experiences with Melaleuca I found online.
"In response to an earlier post "you don't have to pay to open your business". Actually, you do. Melaleuca reps will tell you that you are only paying $29 a year membership.
This statement is true, but what they don't tell you is you will not make any money off these starter items. To start earning commission's you have to buy the $200 or $300 pack. The company also suggests you spend money on signs and business cards. Ok, great. Now you've spent another $50 or $60.
So in total you've dropped about $250-$350 before making anything! Did I mention you are also locked into a minimum of $50 a month? They have your CC# on file, so regardless of whether you wanna pay this or not you're screwed. Lastly, trying to get out of this scam is IMPOSSIBLE! You'd have an easier time trying to get out of the Mafia. IF they even get your cancellation request the chances of them accepting it are slim to none! Can take up to 6 weeks to cancel. They've got another $100 by that time!
My advice: Get a real job, and don't try any of these crappy money making schemes! If they were half as successful as these con-artist zombies claim, EVERYONE WOULD BE DOING IT!"
"I was introduced to Melaleuca by a neighbor who touted their vitamins as a cure for my tiredness. I was happy to try them and was signed up to purchase a certain number of "points" (each product is worth so many points) monthly. I gave them my visa # and was off and running. I had no compaint with the products, other than that they were a little expensive and some of them didn't smell so great. However, even with both me and my husband taking the vitamins, I couldn't keep up with the volume they sent us. We also purchased laundry detergent and way overpriced soap monthly to fulfill our point commintment. My husband started to get antsy about the shipments that just kept coming, and after we had about a year's extra product, I decided it was time to stop the madness.
That's where the company showed its true colors. I called and asked them to cancel my account. They said that they required a signed letter. Fine. I sent that off and called it good. Meanwhile, the shipments kept coming. They had warned me to expect one more as I had missed the deadline of the 25th of the month to cancel, but that I could return that. I did so, but then the next month another package arrived! In the meantime, no credit ever showed up on my visa. Then things got crazy with the holidays and everything, so I set it all aside for another month. Of course, another shipment arrived in the meantime...
So, by the time I finally got back to them to find out what happened, I had received three shipments beyond my initial try at cancelling. I called the company and spoke to a customer service rep. who told me that they "had never received my letter." Imagine that! I got on the internet and searched, only to find that this happens much more often than is statistically possible. Either they have the WORST mail delivery possible, or something is going on."
Here are a few first person experiences with Melaleuca I found online.
"In response to an earlier post "you don't have to pay to open your business". Actually, you do. Melaleuca reps will tell you that you are only paying $29 a year membership.
This statement is true, but what they don't tell you is you will not make any money off these starter items. To start earning commission's you have to buy the $200 or $300 pack. The company also suggests you spend money on signs and business cards. Ok, great. Now you've spent another $50 or $60.
So in total you've dropped about $250-$350 before making anything! Did I mention you are also locked into a minimum of $50 a month? They have your CC# on file, so regardless of whether you wanna pay this or not you're screwed. Lastly, trying to get out of this scam is IMPOSSIBLE! You'd have an easier time trying to get out of the Mafia. IF they even get your cancellation request the chances of them accepting it are slim to none! Can take up to 6 weeks to cancel. They've got another $100 by that time!
My advice: Get a real job, and don't try any of these crappy money making schemes! If they were half as successful as these con-artist zombies claim, EVERYONE WOULD BE DOING IT!"
"I was introduced to Melaleuca by a neighbor who touted their vitamins as a cure for my tiredness. I was happy to try them and was signed up to purchase a certain number of "points" (each product is worth so many points) monthly. I gave them my visa # and was off and running. I had no compaint with the products, other than that they were a little expensive and some of them didn't smell so great. However, even with both me and my husband taking the vitamins, I couldn't keep up with the volume they sent us. We also purchased laundry detergent and way overpriced soap monthly to fulfill our point commintment. My husband started to get antsy about the shipments that just kept coming, and after we had about a year's extra product, I decided it was time to stop the madness.
That's where the company showed its true colors. I called and asked them to cancel my account. They said that they required a signed letter. Fine. I sent that off and called it good. Meanwhile, the shipments kept coming. They had warned me to expect one more as I had missed the deadline of the 25th of the month to cancel, but that I could return that. I did so, but then the next month another package arrived! In the meantime, no credit ever showed up on my visa. Then things got crazy with the holidays and everything, so I set it all aside for another month. Of course, another shipment arrived in the meantime...
So, by the time I finally got back to them to find out what happened, I had received three shipments beyond my initial try at cancelling. I called the company and spoke to a customer service rep. who told me that they "had never received my letter." Imagine that! I got on the internet and searched, only to find that this happens much more often than is statistically possible. Either they have the WORST mail delivery possible, or something is going on."
Liann
Cathlete
Beavs - I've learned that you really can't tell them what they are getting into. They never really believe you and they are so indoctrinated in the seminars about exactly what "outsiders" will say to them and how to react. I was pulled in unknowingly to a seminar a few years ago when I was looking for a job. It wasn't Melaleuca but a very similar company. They brought me in on a job "interview" which turned out to be a huge group interview and then a 2 hour seminar! They had "plants" out in the audience too who acted like they were one of us and asked questions and made affirmative comments. It was such a joke. Luckily, I didn't fall for it, but I've had friends lose a ton of money in one of these businesses and the only people buying their products are themselves. My DH's best friend from high school is big into one and he talks of nothing else. His family can't stand him anymore, all this friends want nothing to do with him (Bryan will not answer his calls anymore because they are only solicitations). Bry talked to the guy's brother about it and he said that the guy is practically broke, but is so brainwashed that he will not see reason. I'm sure that some people can make money with these types of "businesses", but I just personally have a problem with them. The only one that doesn't really bother me is Mary Kay. I think they are set up a little better and are more legit.
Stephanie0523
Cathlete
My mom sold this stuff when I was in high school. She got stuck with a TON of it because no one would buy it. It smelled horrible. Though I'm sure the product has been improved over time. I think selling Avon or Mary Kay would have been much more lucrative (and a lot less smelly).
Liann
Cathlete
Yeah, I meant to add in there, that they often find out for themselves. Aside from Bry's one friend, his best man at our wedding also got involved with something like this, but realized after a year what it was and got out without too much damage. She'll probably see through it quickly. 
Jess_jugs
Cathlete
I guess I'm the only one that loves their products. I switched over to their products about 5 years ago now and won't use anything but their laundry products and cleaning supplies and I also take their vitamins. I'm not in the business side of it though, for reasons mentioned. My Mom sold Amway, Herbalife, Espial when I was growing up and I knew I didn't want to get involved in all that!!
But yes, if you do get enrolled you are required to buy the monthly 35 points. It's been fine for me, they are products that I would be purchasing monthly anyway!
But yes, if you do get enrolled you are required to buy the monthly 35 points. It's been fine for me, they are products that I would be purchasing monthly anyway!
midwestchick
Cathlete
Beavs - I would vote for the Lia Sophia as well. Love, love, LOVE that jewelry but then again, I am a true jewelry freak...
When I see Melaleuca, I always think of that 80's song....My name is Luka...I live on the second(seventh?) floor....
Heidi
When I see Melaleuca, I always think of that 80's song....My name is Luka...I live on the second(seventh?) floor....
Heidi
shakeubooty
Cathlete
I went to a Melaleuca presentation in January and was told they are not a pyramid organization but when I got home and described it to DH he said "Sounds like a pyramid scheme to me!".
While I would have been happy to try their products, the whole idea of commiting to ordering a minimum amount every month turned me off. It would have been nice if they offered a free trial membership to see if you even liked their products. I think your SIL would have trouble selling Melaleuca for that reason.
Sue
While I would have been happy to try their products, the whole idea of commiting to ordering a minimum amount every month turned me off. It would have been nice if they offered a free trial membership to see if you even liked their products. I think your SIL would have trouble selling Melaleuca for that reason.
Sue
MadnNatsmom
Cathlete
>>>>>She's a pretty smart cookie so I hope she doesn't fall for any crappola. If she does, there are plenty of family members who would attempt to set her straight. I just wish she'd pimp Lia Sophia instead!
Hmmm, I'd say my friend is a very smart cookie and she got hooked into the company. I consider MYSELF to be a smart cookie and I got hooked into something similar - Market America. (Fortunately, one of their antioxidants has been almost miraculous for my DS and my seasonal allergies. He hasn't used a steroid nasal spray for 3 years.)
The plus side is that Melaluca's products really are good. They use the Melaleuca tree in a lot of their products, like their lotions, and that lotion is the only thing that helped my DD's eczema (and I'd tried EVERY thing.) Also, their Melaleuca tree oil is more potent than anything else you'll find sold retail.
My friend pretty much is still a member just so she can get products for herself and a few close friends. She does not actively sell.
It is not the "sit back and watch the money come in" that is VERY convincingly presented. You really have to hustle to make money which IS possible. But, it IS a pyramid.
Hmmm, I'd say my friend is a very smart cookie and she got hooked into the company. I consider MYSELF to be a smart cookie and I got hooked into something similar - Market America. (Fortunately, one of their antioxidants has been almost miraculous for my DS and my seasonal allergies. He hasn't used a steroid nasal spray for 3 years.)
The plus side is that Melaluca's products really are good. They use the Melaleuca tree in a lot of their products, like their lotions, and that lotion is the only thing that helped my DD's eczema (and I'd tried EVERY thing.) Also, their Melaleuca tree oil is more potent than anything else you'll find sold retail.
My friend pretty much is still a member just so she can get products for herself and a few close friends. She does not actively sell.
It is not the "sit back and watch the money come in" that is VERY convincingly presented. You really have to hustle to make money which IS possible. But, it IS a pyramid.
intensityjunkie
Cathlete
Jess J- Your not the only one! I buy it every month too and look forward to my package. I LOOOOOOVE their products. I think they all smell nice and work fantastic. They are not loaded with chemicals like stuff from the store. The laundry soap lasts forever. The 35 pt commitment is nothing. I buy that much anyway. Their stuff is high quality. I use their face wash, shampoo/conditioner, body lotions, liquid soaps, leave in conditioner, hand soap, kids bath set, dish detergent, laundry detergent, fabric softener and most of their cleaners. I also use some of their makeup, nail polish and have tried their vitamins. They seem expensive but their stuff lasts a LONG time. I even like their protein shakes.. chocolate and mocha are yummy!
I joined by a neighbor that only joins friends etc once a blue moon and ends up with extra points to use on her own products. Shes joined enough people to pay for most of her monthly point commitment each month. She also investigated it quite a bit before joining. She doesn't buy any product to sell as I don't think it works that way? You tell people about it and then if they want to join you sign them up and THEY buy their own product from melaleuca. I did go see some of my neighbors own stuff and was impressed. The laundry soap smells fantastic. I'm not sure what bad smells are being mentioned as everything I buy smells fantastic.
I'm sure there are a few hoops to go thru to get into selling but I don't think its all that difficult and if your serious about it you can be successful with it.
I also once got a case of toe fungus from a gym (ICK!) and it was horrible. I tried everything over the counter for months and then tried the melaleuca oil they sell and it got rid of it! good stuff!
The animal testing is over one issue of testing dog shampoo on dog coats -when I did a google search. In general their products are bio-degradable and don't have harsh toxic chemicals store brands have. I think the only better thing would to be buy ALL organic and hope those companies are honest about their labels also. I am about to the point of not trusting anyone now days but I know Melaleucas products are good quality.
Thats my thoughts.
I joined by a neighbor that only joins friends etc once a blue moon and ends up with extra points to use on her own products. Shes joined enough people to pay for most of her monthly point commitment each month. She also investigated it quite a bit before joining. She doesn't buy any product to sell as I don't think it works that way? You tell people about it and then if they want to join you sign them up and THEY buy their own product from melaleuca. I did go see some of my neighbors own stuff and was impressed. The laundry soap smells fantastic. I'm not sure what bad smells are being mentioned as everything I buy smells fantastic.
I'm sure there are a few hoops to go thru to get into selling but I don't think its all that difficult and if your serious about it you can be successful with it.
I also once got a case of toe fungus from a gym (ICK!) and it was horrible. I tried everything over the counter for months and then tried the melaleuca oil they sell and it got rid of it! good stuff!
The animal testing is over one issue of testing dog shampoo on dog coats -when I did a google search. In general their products are bio-degradable and don't have harsh toxic chemicals store brands have. I think the only better thing would to be buy ALL organic and hope those companies are honest about their labels also. I am about to the point of not trusting anyone now days but I know Melaleucas products are good quality.
Thats my thoughts.
Jess_jugs
Cathlete
Oh, good! I'm glad I'm not the only one. I love the smell too. Oh yeah, I use all of their home care and toothpaste, kids bath wash, etc also.
And I first heard about it from a neighbor also!! I also buy laundry soap and a few other things for my Mom so the 35 product points a month is nothing! Have you ever used their Access bars?? They are what I use before my long runs and I have had the Mochaccino protein powder too! The Renew lotion is the only thing that worked for my dd when she had severely dry skin also.
And I first heard about it from a neighbor also!! I also buy laundry soap and a few other things for my Mom so the 35 product points a month is nothing! Have you ever used their Access bars?? They are what I use before my long runs and I have had the Mochaccino protein powder too! The Renew lotion is the only thing that worked for my dd when she had severely dry skin also.
intensityjunkie
Cathlete
oh yeah and I use their toothpaste. good stuff! Renew lotion is super thick and amazing. It makes store brands feel like bath water! I think I tried the access bars a LOOONG time ago when I was in my rutt of not working out much. I Need to try them again.
Renew lotion is super thick and amazing. It makes store brands feel like bath water! I think I tried the access bars a LOOONG time ago when I was in my rutt of not working out much. I Need to try them again.
Liann
Cathlete
>The animal testing is over one issue of testing dog shampoo on
>dog coats -when I did a google search. In general their
>products are bio-degradable and don't have harsh toxic
>chemicals store brands have. I think the only better thing
>would to be buy ALL organic and hope those companies are
>honest about their labels also. I am about to the point of not
>trusting anyone now days but I know Melaleucas products are
>good quality.
>
> Thats my thoughts.
The animal testing on dogs for shampoo was Melaleucas response to being put on the list of company's that test on animals. If you dig a little further though, there was a counter article to that one pointing out that that was not the main reason they were put on the list. There are other products that they contracted testing to labs for that tested on rats. I'm not a huge animal-rights nazi or anything, just found that interesting and only pointed it out for those who that may be an issue with. Here's the web page with both sides, it starts off with the letter from Melaleuca and the rebuttal:
http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/ask/vandersloot
>dog coats -when I did a google search. In general their
>products are bio-degradable and don't have harsh toxic
>chemicals store brands have. I think the only better thing
>would to be buy ALL organic and hope those companies are
>honest about their labels also. I am about to the point of not
>trusting anyone now days but I know Melaleucas products are
>good quality.
>
> Thats my thoughts.
The animal testing on dogs for shampoo was Melaleucas response to being put on the list of company's that test on animals. If you dig a little further though, there was a counter article to that one pointing out that that was not the main reason they were put on the list. There are other products that they contracted testing to labs for that tested on rats. I'm not a huge animal-rights nazi or anything, just found that interesting and only pointed it out for those who that may be an issue with. Here's the web page with both sides, it starts off with the letter from Melaleuca and the rebuttal:
http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/ask/vandersloot
beautifulsoul
Cathlete
I like their products from what I have tried so far. My sister just sent me some. I like the tooth paste and I love the face mask, my face has never glowed so much and I think it smells great. Just my 2 cents.