Business ProfileforMaryann Organics

In October 2021, BBB contacted Maryann Organics regarding advertising claims on its website.

Its website has multiple benefit claims related to the use of its products. The following are a sampling of a few of these claims:
"It also enhances the skin’s elasticity to eliminate wrinkles and other unsightly symptoms related to aging....keep the skin safe from the damaging effects of pollution and stress...scientifically proven to be effective for all skin types....proven ability to restore the long lost glory of youthfulness to mature skin virtually instantaneously...encourages cell regrowth and regeneration.."
According to the BBB Code of Advertising, claims relating to performance, efficacy, or results for a product should be based on recent and competent testing or other objective data. BBB requested that the business provide any recent tests or studies that prove the truth of its claims but did not receive a response.

Its website includes the statement "As Seen In Hollywood Life, Stylecraze, Yahoo!Life, InStyle, People, Parents."
Such claims may mislead consumers to believe that the products were reported on in a publication when, in fact, they were only advertised. BBB asked if these products were reviewed or featured on these platforms or if these were paid advertisements, but did not receive a reply.

One of the website's frequently asked questions and its answer is Q: "How to avoid allergic reactions to face cream?" A: "In case with Maryann cosmetics allergic reactions appear as often as almost never. The key explanation for it is the company uses only natural components, the creams are manufactured, composed and tested in the US under strong compliance to the national production rules and restrictions."
According to the BBB Code of Advertising, an advertiser must not express or imply that a product or product line is exclusively “Made in USA” unless all or virtually all of the product is made in the U.S. All significant parts and processing that go into the product must be of U.S. origin and the product should contain no — or negligible — foreign content.  BBB requested that the business  provide substantiation for the "..manufactured, composed and tested in the US.." claim and explain under what "national production rules and restrictions" the products comply, but did not receive a response.

An additional FAQ concerns its refund and satisfaction guarantee: "What do I lose when choosing Maryann products? You may be surprised - but Nothing. The basic value for Maryann Organics is to ensure you like and love our products and their effects. Once you feel unhappy with any of them - you’ll receive your money back. Satisfaction Guarantee is included in our customers care and notable results from using face care products." 
However, its Refund Policy states "To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging....Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products)....Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards." It appears that all of its products are offered at a 'sale' price. 
The primary responsibility for truthful and non-deceptive advertising rests with the advertiser.  Advertisements which are untrue, misleading, deceptive, or fraudulent shall not be used. Misrepresentation may result not only from direct statements, but by omitting or obscuring a material fact. BBB requested that the business explain how its customers can receive a refund under a Satisfaction Guarantee policy that is contradicted by its refund policy, but did not receive a reply.