Return Policy Sephora

Understanding the return policy Sephora offers is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought something in-store or online, their guidelines are designed to be straightforward. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with total confidence.

Sephora’s return policy is famously flexible and customer-friendly. They stand by their products and want you to love what you buy. In most cases, you can return new or gently used items for a full refund within a generous window. The core principle is simple: if you’re not happy, they want to make it right.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most items purchased from Sephora in the US or Canada can be returned. This includes makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, and tools. The product does not need to be completely unused, but it should be only gently used so that it can be properly evaluated. Sephora is pretty reasonable about this.

New or Gently Used Products: You can try a product and still return it if it doesn’t work for you.
Opened Items: Yes, you can return opened makeup, skincare, and even fragrance.
Online and In-Store Purchases: Items bought online can be returned by mail or to a store. In-store purchases should generally go back to a store.

What Items Are NOT Eligible for Return?

There are a few important exceptions to keep in mind. These are typically for health, safety, or digital goods.

Sephora Collection Gift Cards: These are non-refundable by law.
Digital Products: This includes downloadable software or eBooks.
Items Damaged After Purchase: Products broken due to customer mishandling after purchase may not be accepted.
Final Sale Items: Occasionally, certain sale items may be marked as final sale, which will be clearly stated at checkout.

Key Timeframes for Returns

The clock starts ticking from the day you receive your order or make your in-store purchase. Here are the standard windows:

Within 30 Days: For a full refund to your original payment method.
Within 31-60 Days: You will typically receive an exchange or merchandise credit.

After 60 days, returns are generally not accepted, so it’s best not to let returns sit in your drawer for to long. Always check your receipt or order confirmation for the exact purchase date.

Condition of Returned Items

While Sephora accepts gently used items, there are some common-sense condition requirements. The product should be in a state that allows Beauty Advisors to assess it.

Have the Original Packaging: It’s best to include the box or outer packaging if you still have it.
Include All Parts: If the item came with a brush, charger, or manual, include those pieces.
Reasonable Amount Used: Using half a bottle of foundation or a significant portion of a product likely won’t qualify as “gently used.”

Required Proof of Purchase

You must provide proof that you bought the item from Sephora. This is non-negotiable. Here’s what they accept:

The Original Receipt: The easiest and fastest method.
The Packing Slip: From your online order.
Digital Proof: The email confirmation or the order history in your Sephora account.
A Beauty Insider Account Lookup: If you used your free Beauty Insider account at the time of purchase, associates can often look up the transaction in-store.

Without proof of purchase, Sephora may offer the lowest recent selling price as merchandise credit, or they might deny the return altogether.

Step-by-Step: How to Return to a Sephora Store

Returning an item in-person is often the quickest way to get your refund. Follow these steps:

Gather Your Items: Collect the product, its original packaging if possible, and your proof of purchase.
Visit Any Sephora Store: You can go to any US Sephora location, not just the one where you made the purchase.
Speak with a Cashier: Let them know you’d like to make a return. They will ask for your proof of purchase.
Choose Your Refund Method: Depending on how long it’s been, you can choose a refund to your original payment, an exchange, or store credit.
Receive Your Refund: For card refunds, it may take a few business days to appear on your statement. Store credit is immediate.

Step-by-Step: How to Return an Online Order by Mail

If visiting a store isn’t convenient, the mail-in return process is simple. Sephora provides a prepaid return label for most returns.

Initiate the Return Online: Log into your Sephora account, go to “My Orders,” and select the item(s) you wish to return.
Print Your Label: A prepaid return shipping label will be generated for you to print.
Package the Items Securely: Place the item(s) and your packing slip (or a note with your order number) in a box. Seal it securely.
Attach the Label: Attach the prepaid label over the old shipping label on the box.
Drop Off the Package: You can drop it at any UPS location or schedule a pickup.
Track Your Return: Use the tracking number on your label to monitor the return’s progress. Sephora will email you once they process it.

Refunds for mail-in returns are issued to your original payment method once the return is received and inspected, usually within 5-10 business days.

Refund Methods and Timing

How you get your money back depends on your payment method and the return timeframe.

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds go back to the original card. Processing can take 5-10 business days after the return is approved.
PayPal: Refunds are issued to your PayPal account.
Sephora Gift Card or Merchandise Credit: You will receive a new e-gift card or physical card.
Store Credit: Often issued as merchandise credit on a gift card, which can be used in-store or online.

Remember, if you return an item bought during a promotion (like a gift with purchase), you may need to return the promotional item as well or its value might be deducted from your refund.

Special Considerations for Beauty Insider Members

Your Beauty Insider status doesn’t change the return policy, but it does make the process smoother. Having your purchase linked to your account serves as automatic proof of purchase, which is a huge benefit if you lose your receipt. Also, any points you earned for the returned item will be deducted from your account balance. If you used points to redeem a reward, that reward must be returned in its entirety if you want a refund on the associated purchase.

Exchanges vs. Returns

Sometimes you just want a different shade or product. Here’s how exchanges work:

In-Store Exchanges: Very simple. Bring the item you wish to exchange with its proof of purchase, and a Beauty Advisor can help you find a suitable replacement right away.
Online Exchanges: Sephora’s online system doesn’t have a direct exchange function. The easiest method is to place a new order for the item you want and then return the original item separately for a refund using the standard return process.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

A little preparation can make the return process effortless.

Keep Your Receipts: File them digitally or in an envelope until you’re sure you’re keeping the product.
Test Products Promptly: Don’t let new purchases sit unopened for weeks. Try them within the first week or two so you have plenty of time to decide.
Be Polite and Clear: Store associates are there to help. Clearly stating your reason for the return makes the transaction faster for everyone.
Check the Policy for Holiday Seasons: Sometimes return windows are extended for purchases made during the winter holidays (like November and December). Always verify the date on your receipt.

Common Questions and Concerns

Let’s address some frequent worries shoppers have.

What if I lost my receipt?

If you made the purchase in-store and are not a Beauty Insider member, this can be tricky. They may offer store credit for the item’s lowest recent selling price. If you are a Beauty Insider and the purchase is on your account, you’re all set—they can look it up.

Can I return a used perfume?

Yes, Sephora’s policy includes fragrance. As long as it’s gently used and within the return window, you can return it. The bottle should be mostly full for a smooth process.

What about returns during COVID-19 or other special circumstances?

Store policies may adapt for public health. It’s always a good idea to check Sephora’s official website for any temporary updates to the return process before heading to a store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Sephora’s return policy?

Sephora’s policy allows returns of new or gently used items within 60 days of purchase with proof of receipt. Returns within 30 days get a full refund to the original payment method; returns between 31-60 days usually get store credit or an exchange.

How long do you have to return something to Sephora?

You have 60 days from the date of purchase to return an item. The refund method changes after the first 30 days, so it’s best to act quickly if your not satisfied.

Can I return opened makeup to Sephora?

Yes, you can return opened makeup to Sephora as long as there is a reasonable amount of product left and it is within the 60-day return window. This is one of the most appreciated aspects of their policy.

Does Sephora take returns without a receipt?

It is challenging but sometimes possible. Without a receipt and without the purchase on your Beauty Insider account, Sephora may offer merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price, which could be lower than what you paid. They also reserve the right to deny the return.

Can I return online purchases to a Sephora store?

Absolutely. This is a major convenience. Just bring the item, its original packaging if you have it, and your packing slip or order confirmation email to any Sephora store.

How long do Sephora refunds take?

For in-store returns to a card, it can take 5-10 business days to post to your account. For mail-in returns, allow time for shipping plus 5-10 business days for processing after Sephora receives the package.

Final Thoughts on Sephora’s Policy

Sephora’s return policy is built to remove the risk from trying new beauty products. By understanding the simple rules—like the 60-day window, the need for proof of purchase, and the condition guidelines—you can shop without worry. This policy reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction and allows you to find products you truly love. Always double-check the official policy on their website for the most current details, as terms can be updated. Now you’re equipped with all the knowledge to handle any return smoothly and get back to what you enjoy most: discovering new favorites.