Youngevity vs Herbalife in 2025: Which MLM Wins for Your Future?
Hi, I’m Omar, a Youngevity distributor since 2018. Looking for an MLM in 2025? Youngevity and Herbalife are big names.
But which one’s your best shot? Let’s compare founders, revenue, products, and more to help you decide.
Ready to find your path? Let’s dive in!
Founders: Visionaries Behind the Brands
Youngevity’s Founder: Dr. Joel Wallach
Dr. Joel Wallach, a veterinarian and naturopath, founded Youngevity in 1997. Known as the “Mineral Doctor,” he focused on nutrient deficiencies.
His “90 For Life” philosophy—90 essential nutrients for health—drives Youngevity. Critics question his veterinary roots, but he’s a wellness icon.
Steve Wallach, his son, now CEO, fuels Youngevity’s growth.
Herbalife’s Founder: Mark Hughes
Mark Hughes launched Herbalife in 1980, inspired by his mother’s weight loss struggles. He sold protein shakes from his car.
Hughes built a global brand, but controversies followed. After his 2000 passing, Stephan Gratziani, a top distributor, became CEO in 2025.
Herbalife’s legacy is massive but shadowed by legal issues.
Revenue: Growth vs Decline
Revenue shows market momentum. Here’s the breakdown:
Youngevity Revenue
Youngevity’s revenue soared to an estimated 431.52 million in 2023, up 22.39% from $352.58 million in 2022.
From $147.44 million in 2019, it grew ~192% in four years, driven by diverse products and acquisitions like Gigi Hills handbags.
This growth signals a hot opportunity for distributors.
Herbalife Revenue
Herbalife reported 4.99 billion in 2024, down 1.4% from $5.06 billion in 2023, continuing a sales slide.
Q1 2025 net sales were $1.2 billion, down 1% year-over-year. Despite $5.1 billion in 2023, growth has stalled.
Herbalife’s size is huge, but its decline raises concerns.
Products: Variety vs Focus
Youngevity Products
Youngevity offers over 120 products across multiple categories, including:
- Nutrition: Beyond Tangy Tangerine, Healthy Body Start Pak.
- Beauty: Mineral makeup, anti-aging skincare.
- Lifestyle: Coffee, supplements, pet care.
Its “90 For Life” focus draws health enthusiasts. Variety boosts sales but can overwhelm new distributors.
Herbalife Products
Herbalife specializes in nutrition, offering:
- Weight Management: Formula 1 shakes (56.3% of 2023 sales).
- Supplements: Vitamins, teas, aloes.
- Sports Nutrition: Energy drinks, protein bars.
Its science-backed focus suits weight loss fans. The narrow range simplifies marketing.
Business Model: MLM Structures Compared
Youngevity’s Business Model
Youngevity’s unilevel MLM pays up to 44.6% commission in 2023.
Distributors earn 30% retail profits, 5% on two downline levels, and Fast Start bonuses. Startup costs range from $30 to $499.
Its flexible model suits solo sellers and team-builders.
Herbalife’s Business Model
Herbalife’s unilevel MLM pays up to 50% on personal sales, plus team bonuses.
Startup costs vary, often $100+. Top earners make millions, but most earn little. Nutrition Clubs drive sales but struggle with recruitment.
The model rewards top performers but challenges most distributors.
Comparison Table: Youngevity vs Herbalife
| Feature | Youngevity | Herbalife |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1997 | 1980 |
| Founder | Dr. Joel Wallach | Mark Hughes |
| 2023/2024 Revenue | $431.52M (192% growth since 2019) | $4.99B (down 1.4% in 2024) |
| Products | 120+ (nutrition, beauty, lifestyle) | Nutrition (shakes, supplements, sports) |
| Commission Rate | Up to 44.6% | Up to 50% (variable) |
| Startup Cost | $30–$499 | Varies, often $100+ |
| Distributor Base | ~30,000 (2010 data) | 2.3M+ (2020 data) |
| Key Strength | Growth & product diversity | Global scale |
Controversies and Criticisms
Youngevity Controversies
Dr. Wallach’s “90 For Life” claims face skepticism over his veterinary background.
No major lawsuits have surfaced, but limited income disclosure raises earnings questions.
Acquisitions diversify revenue but may dilute health focus.
Herbalife Controversies
Herbalife paid a $200 million FTC fine in 2016 for misleading distributors, restructuring its model.
Past issues include FDA complaints and a 1985 lawsuit over product claims. Low average earnings persist despite high revenue.
Its Nutrition Clubs face recruitment challenges.
Why Choose Youngevity? My Experience
I joined Youngevity in 2018 after trying Herbalife. Beyond Tangy Tangerine helped me lose 15 pounds, and its 120+ products made selling fun.
Youngevity’s $30 startup and 44.6% commission fit my goals. Its growth keeps opportunities fresh.
Want to join? Visit my Work with Me page.
Which MLM Is Better for You?
Choose Youngevity if:
- You want to join a growing MLM (192% revenue growth since 2019).
- You love diverse products, from supplements to coffee.
- You prefer low startup costs ($30) and high commissions (44.6%).
Choose Herbalife if:
- You’re passionate about nutrition shakes and a $4.99B brand.
- You’re okay with higher startup costs and a declining market.
- You aim for top-tier earnings despite low averages.
Youngevity’s growth won me over. See my success story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Youngevity or Herbalife a pyramid scheme?
Neither is a pyramid scheme. Youngevity ($431.52M in 2023) and Herbalife ($4.99B in 2024) focus on product sales.
Which has better products?
Youngevity’s 120+ products offer variety; Herbalife excels in shakes with science-backed formulas.
Can I earn more with Youngevity?
Youngevity’s 44.6% commission and growth edge out Herbalife’s 50% variable rate in a declining market.
Start Your MLM Journey in 2025
Youngevity’s soaring revenue makes now the time to join. I chose it for growth and support.
Ready? Visit my Work with Me page to start with Youngevity!