Do Lipstick Sales Really Increase in Difficult Economic Times?

One theory often repeated by Mary Kay directors is that when times are tough, women still buy lipstick. In fact, they claim there is evidence that lipstick sales actually increase.

But a recent story published by the Economist says the data don’t always support this theory.

The term “lipstick index” was coined by an Estee Lauder executive during the 2001 recession. But the index is less than reliable. Sometimes sales go up during tough times, other times they go down.

The bottom line:  reliable historical sales figures don’t exist to support the theory.

In These Tough Economic Times, Mary Kay is NOT the Answer

Beware.

No doubt Mary Kay directors everywhere are training their consultants to recruit based on the economic situation.

I can just hear it now: “Mary Kay is an ideal source of extra income, especially today, when everyone is feeling the pinch from the economic situation. For just $100, you can have a part-time business making full-time income and help out your family.”

Please…don’t buy it.

First of all, we all know it doesn’t just cost $100 to join.

Second, you’ll most likely have MORE debt if you join Mary Kay, and if you’re like lots of Mary Kay consultants, more debt than you ever had in your life.

If you’re still intrigued by the Mary Kay shindig, at least do some reading here. You’ll more than likely thank us later.