Understanding the Tarte return policy is key to shopping with confidence. Whether you love their makeup or are trying it for the first time, knowing the rules helps you make smart choices. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returns, exchanges, and refunds. We’ll cover time limits, condition requirements, and how to start a return. You’ll also find tips for a smooth process and answers to common questions.
Let’s get straight to the details so you can shop without worry.
Tarte Return Policy
The core Tarte return policy is designed to be customer-friendly. In general, they offer a 60-day return window for most items purchased directly from their website or their branded stores. This means you have two months from the date your order ships to decide if a product is right for you. Items must be gently used or, ideally, unused to qualify for a full refund. The policy covers both opened and unopened products, as long as they are in resalable condition. This is great for makeup, since you often need to try a shade or formula to see if it works.
However, there are some important exceptions and conditions to keep in mind. Final sale items, like those purchased during major clearance events, are typically not eligible for return. Also, free gifts or promotional items that came with your order usually must be returned with the main product if you want a full refund. It’s always a good idea to check your receipt or the product page for any specific return notes before you buy.
What Items Can You Return?
Most products from Tarte’s lineup can be returned within the 60-day period. This includes:
* Foundations, concealers, and powders
* Lipsticks, glosses, and liners
* Eyeshadows, mascaras, and eyeliners
* Skincare items like moisturizers and cleansers
* Brushes and makeup tools
What Items Are Final Sale?
Some items cannot be returned. Always look for tags or warnings on the product page. Common final sale items include:
* Products marked “Final Sale” or “Clearance”
* Customized or personalized items
Items purchased through third-party retailers (like Sephora or Ulta)—you must follow that store’s policy instead.
Condition of Returns
For a successful return, your items should be in resalable condition. Tarte is generous in allowing you to try the product, but there are limits. “Gently used” means you’ve tested it once or twice to check the color or formula. It does not mean using half the bottle or pan. A good rule of thumb is: if you wouldn’t buy it in its current state, it probably won’t be accepted. All original packaging, like boxes and sleeves, should be included if possible.
How to Start a Tarte Return
Initiating a return is a straightforward process done online. You can’t start a return by calling customer service; you must use the portal on their website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Go to the Returns Page. Visit Tarte’s website and navigate to the “Returns & Exchanges” section, usually found at the bottom of the page in the footer links.
2. Enter Your Details. You’ll need your order number and the email address used to place the order. This information is in your confirmation email.
3. Select Items for Return. Choose the specific products you want to send back from your order list. You’ll be asked to select a reason for the return, which helps Tarte improve their products.
4. Choose Your Refund Method. Decide if you want a refund to your original payment method or store credit. Note that refunds to your original payment can take longer to process.
5. Print Your Label. Once the return is authorized, you’ll receive a prepaid return shipping label to print. Tarte often deducts a return shipping fee from your refund, usually around $6.95, unless the return is due to their error (like a wrong item shipped).
6. Pack and Ship. Pack the items securely in a box, include the return form if you printed one, and attach the shipping label. Drop the package off at the designated carrier (often UPS or USPS).
The Refund Timeline
After you ship your return, the waiting game begins. Here’s what to expect:
* Processing Time: Once the warehouse receives your package, it takes about 7-10 business days for them to inspect the items.
* Refund Issuance: After approval, your refund is issued. Store credit is usually fastest, appearing in your account within a few days. Refunds to credit cards or PayPal can take 5-10 business days to show up on your statement, depending on your bank.
* Notification: You should recieve an email confirmation when your return is received and again when the refund is processed.
Tarte Exchange Policy
Sometimes you just need a different shade, not a full refund. Tarte’s exchange policy is integrated into their return process. Because they don’t handle direct exchanges, the easiest way to “exchange” an item is to follow these steps:
1. Initiate a return for the item you don’t want and select “Refund to Original Payment” or “Store Credit.”
2. Once the return is approved and processed, use the refund or credit to place a brand new order for the correct shade or product.
3. This ensures you get the item you want quickly, without waiting for the original return to be fully completed before the new item ships.
This method is generally faster than a traditional exchange system. Using store credit from your return can speed up the new purchase, as that credit is often available before the cash refund fully clears.
International Returns
If you’re shopping from outside the United States, the return process has a few extra steps. The 60-day window still applies, but you are responsible for the cost of international return shipping, which can be significant. You may also need to fill out a customs form declaring the return. It’s crucial to mark the package as a “Returned Good” to avoid being charged import taxes again. Due to this complexity, many international customers find it helpful to contact Tarte’s customer service for specific guidance before sending a package back.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience
A little preparation can make your return go perfectly smooth. Following these tips can help you avoid delays or issues with your refund.
* Keep Original Packaging: Whenever possible, keep the product’s box and any protective packaging until you’re sure you’re keeping the item. Returns in original packaging are less likely to have issues.
* Act Within the Window: Mark your calendar! 60 days goes by quickly. Don’t let the return period lapse because you forgot.
* Understand the Fees: Remember that the return shipping fee (about $6.95) will be deducted from your refund unless the return is Tarte’s fault. This is a standard practice for many cosmetics companies.
* Take Photos: Before you ship your return, take quick photos of the products and their condition. This provides a record in the rare case of a dispute.
* Use the Correct Label: Always use the specific prepaid label Tarte provides for your return. Using your own label or a different carrier may mean Tarte cannot track or credit your return properly.
* Get a Drop-Off Receipt: When you hand your return package to the carrier, ask for a receipt or proof of drop-off. This gives you a tracking number and proof you shipped it on time.
Common Reasons Returns Get Delayed or Denied
Even with the best intentions, returns can sometimes hit a snag. Knowing the common pitfalls helps you avoid them.
* Item is Past the 60-Day Return Period: This is the most common reason. The countdown starts from the ship date, not the delivery date.
* Product is Too Used: If a product shows significant usage (e.g., a large dip in an eyeshadow pan, half a bottle of foundation used), it may be deemed not resalable and refund could be denied.
* Missing Components: Forgetting to include a free gift that came with the purchase, or not sending back all parts of a kit, can delay your refund amount.
* Final Sale Item: Attempting to return an item clearly marked as final sale will not be successful.
* Purchased from an Unauthorized Retailer: If you bought from a third-party seller on Amazon or eBay, Tarte cannot handle that return. You must go through the seller.
* Incorrect or Missing Paperwork: Not including the return form or RMA number inside the box can slow down processing, as workers have to identify your order manually.
Tarte’s Warranty and Damaged Items
What if your product arrives damaged, defective, or is the completely wrong item? In these cases, the standard return policy doesn’t quite apply—this is where Tarte’s guarantee comes in.
If you receive a broken eyeshadow, a leaking moisturizer, or the wrong shade entirely, you should contact Tarte Customer Service immediately. Do not initiate a standard return. You can reach them via:
* Email: Through the contact form on their website.
* Social Media: Direct messaging on Instagram or Facebook.
They will typically ask for photos of the damaged product and your order number. Since this was their error, they will usually send a replacement product at no cost to you, and they will provide a prepaid return label for the damaged/wrong item without deducting any shipping fees. This process is usually resolved much quicker than a standard return.
FAQ Section
How long is the Tarte return policy?
The standard return window is 60 days from the date your order ships. It’s important to check your shipping confirmation email for the exact date.
Can I return Tarte products to Sephora or Ulta?
No, you cannot. If you purchased Tarte cosmetics from Sephora, Ulta, QVC, or any other third-party retailer, you must follow that specific store’s return policy and timeline. Tarte can only process returns for items bought on their official website or in their own stores.
Does Tarte offer free return shipping?
Not usually. A return shipping and processing fee (approximately $6.95) is deducted from your refund amount. The only exception is if the return is due to an error on Tarte’s part, like shipping a damaged or incorrect product.
What is the best way to get a Tarte cosmetics return label?
The only way to get an official, prepaid return label is to authorize your return through the “Returns & Exchanges” portal on Tarte’s website. Customer service cannot email you a label without you first creating the return in the system.
How long do Tarte refunds take?
After Tarte receives your return, allow 7-10 business days for inspection and processing. Once issued, a store credit is instant, while a refund to your card or PayPal can take an additional 5-10 business days to appear on your account.
Can I return a product if I lost the original box?
Yes, you can usually return a product without its original box. However, the product itself must still be in resalable, gently used condition. Having the box is helpful but not always mandatory.
What if I recieved a Tarte product as a gift?
Gift returns are handled a bit differently. You will likely need the order number from the person who gifted it to you to initiate the return. The refund will generally be issued back to the original form of payment or as store credit for the giftee.
Are opened makeup products returnable to Tarte?
Yes, Tarte does accept returns on gently used products. This is one of the more generous aspects of their policy, as they understand you need to test makeup for shade and formula. However, the product must not be excessively used.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
The Tarte return policy is designed to be fair and relatively simple, giving you a generous two months to decide on your purchase. The key to a stress-free experience is understanding the steps: authorize online, use the provided label, and be mindful of condition and time limits. Remember that buying directly from Tarte means dealing with their policy, while purchases from other retailers fall under different rules. By keeping your packaging, acting promptly, and using the online portal, you can handle any return with ease. This knowledge lets you shop their collections—from iconic blushes to skincare favorites—with the confidence that you’re covered if something isn’t quite right. Now you’re ready to make your next Tarte purchase with peace of mind.