Getting a gift that isn’t quite right or buying something that doesn’t work for you can put a damper on the holiday spirit. Knowing the Sephora holiday return policy is the key to stress-free shopping and gifting. This guide explains everything you need to know about returning items during the busiest time of the year.
The rules can change slightly for the holidays, and we’ll cover all those details. You’ll learn about the extended return window, what items are final sale, and how to make your return process smooth. Let’s make sure you can shop with confidence.
Sephora Holiday Return Policy
Sephora’s standard return policy is already generous, but they offer an even better deal during the holidays. This special policy is designed to give you more time to decide if a product is right for you or for the person you gifted it to. It applies to purchases made during a specific period in November and December.
For most of the year, you have 60 days to return items for a refund. The holiday extension tacks on extra weeks, giving you well into the new year to make a return. This is incredibly helpful when you’re dealing with post-holiday chaos.
What is the Extended Holiday Return Window?
The exact dates for the extended policy can vary slightly each year, but the pattern is consistent. Typically, purchases made around mid-November through the end of December qualify for a return deadline in late January.
- For example, one year’s policy might state: “Purchases made between November 1st and December 31st can be returned until January 31st of the following year.”
- Always double-check the current year’s dates on Sephora’s official website or your receipt.
- This extension applies to both online and in-store purchases.
Items Eligible for Return
Most items bought at Sephora can be returned under the holiday policy. This includes makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, and tools. The item does not need to be unused, but it should be in gently used condition for hygiene and safety reasons.
- Opened products: Yes, you can return products you’ve tried. Sephora has a famous “try it” philosophy.
- Unopened products: Obviously, these are perfectly fine to return with the original packaging.
- Gifts: If you received a Sephora item as a gift, you can return it with the packing slip or order number.
Items That Are Final Sale
Even during the holidays, some items are marked as final sale and cannot be returned. It’s crucial to check before you buy. These typically include:
- Items purchased through Sephora’s “Sale” or “Clearance” sections, unless otherwise stated.
- Personalized products or sets that have been opened (if the set is unopened, it’s usually returnable).
- Gift cards (these are never returnable).
- Items bought from Sephora inside another store, like Kohl’s; you must return them to that specific location.
Condition of Returned Items
While Sephora is lenient, there are limits. A product should not be significantly depleted. A good rule of thumb is that less than half of the product should be used.
If you used a product once or twice and had a bad reaction, that’s a valid return. If you used almost the entire bottle, that likely won’t be accepted. The store associates make the final judgement call.
Required Proof of Purchase
To process your return, you need proof you bought the item at Sephora. Always keep your receipt, packing slip, or email confirmation. Here’s what works:
- The original receipt from in-store.
- The packing slip from your online order.
- The email order confirmation.
- For Beauty Insider members, the purchase is linked to your account. You can look it up with your phone number or email in store, or provide your order number online.
How to Make a Holiday Return to Sephora
You have two main options for returning items: in-store or by mail. The easier and faster method is usually going to a physical Sephora store.
Returning an Item In-Store
This is the most straightforward method. You get your refund immediately, and you can ask an associate any questions you have.
- Gather the item(s) you want to return and their original packaging if possible.
- Bring your proof of purchase (receipt, packing slip, or be ready to give your Beauty Insider details).
- Go to any Sephora store (not Sephora inside Kohl’s for purchases made at standalone Sephora stores).
- Head to the cashwrap and let an associate know you’d like to make a return.
- They will process the return and issue your refund to the original form of payment. If you don’t have the card, you’ll likely get store credit.
Returning an Item by Mail
If you don’t live near a store, mail is your option. The process takes longer, and you need to be more organized.
- Log into your Sephora account online and go to “My Orders.”
- Find the order containing the item you wish to return and select “Return Items.”
- Follow the prompts to select the items and reason for return. Sephora will generate a return authorization and a prepaid shipping label.
- Pack the items securely in a box. Include the return merchandise authorization (RMA) form if one is provided.
- Attach the shipping label and drop the package at a UPS location.
- Once Sephora’s warehouse receives and processes your return, your refund will be issued. This can take 10-14 business days after they get the package.
Returning a Gift You Received
Returning a gift is simple, even if you don’t have the receipt. The key is having the order number or packing slip that came with the gift.
- Use the packing slip included in the gift package. It has a special number for gift returns.
- Go to a Sephora store or start an online return using that number.
- Without a receipt or packing slip, you may only be able to receive an exchange or store credit for the item’s current selling price.
Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you return the item.
Refunds to Original Payment
This is the default and fastest method. If you return an item in-store with the original credit card or debit card present, the refund is usually processed within a few business days. For mail returns, the refund timeline starts once the return is approved at the warehouse.
Store Credit
You will receive store credit in a few situations:
- You return an item without the original payment method (e.g., you used a credit card you no longer have).
- You are returning a gift without a receipt or packing slip.
- The return is past the standard 60-day window but within the extended holiday period (this may be at Sephora’s discretion).
Store credit is issued as an electronic gift card sent to your email. It never expires.
Timeline for Refunds
- In-store with original card: 3-7 business days to appear on your statement.
- In-store for store credit: Immediate, via an emailed e-gift card.
- By mail to original payment: 10-14 business days after Sephora receives the return.
- By mail for store credit: Similar timing, with an e-gift card emailed upon processing.
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Return Experience
A little preparation makes the return process effortless.
Keep Your Receipts and Packaging
Designate an envelope or folder for all your holiday shopping receipts, especially from Sephora. If you think something might be a gift, keep the packaging intact and the packing slip with it.
Test Products Sooner Than Later
Don’t wait until January 30th to try that new foundation. Test products within a week or two of getting them. This gives you plenty of time to decide and process the return within the window if needed.
Be Kind to Store Associates
The holiday and post-holiday period is extremely busy for Sephora employees. Being patient and polite goes a long way. Have your items and proof of purchase ready when you get to the cashwrap.
Understand the “Sephora Inside Kohl’s” Difference
Returns and purchases at Sephora inside Kohl’s are handled by Kohl’s policies. You must return items bought there to a Kohl’s store, not a standalone Sephora. Their holiday return policy might be different, so check Kohl’s website for details.
Common Questions and Scenarios
What if I Lost My Receipt?
If you’re a Beauty Insider, your purchase is track in your account. The store can look it up with your phone number or email. If you’re not a member and lost the receipt, you may only qualify for an exchange or store credit for the item’s lowest recent selling price.
Can I Return a Product I Bought During the VIB Sale?
Yes, items purchased during sales like the Rouge, VIB, or Insider sales are returnable under the standard and holiday policies. Your refund will be for the price you paid, not the original value.
What About Returning Online-Exclusive Sets?
Online-exclusive sets can be returned by mail or in-store. If the set is unopened, it’s simple. If it’s opened, it may be subject to a manager’s approval to ensure all components are largely intact.
Do I Need the Original Box?
It’s helpful but not always required. For fragrance returns, the box is often necessary. For other items, having the box is good practice but the store will usually accept the product without it if you have the receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Sephora’s return policy during Christmas?
Sephora typically extends its return window for holiday purchases. Items bought in November and December can often be returned until late January, giving you extra time post-Christmas.
How long do I have to return a Sephora holiday purchase?
While the exact dates change, the extended holiday return period usually gives you until the end of January to return items purchased from mid-November through December 31st.
Can I return opened makeup to Sephora after the holidays?
Yes, Sephora’s “try it” policy applies during the holiday extension. You can return gently used products that didn’t work for you, as long as you’re within the return window and have proof of purchase.
What is Sephora’s policy for returning gifts?
You can return gifts with the packing slip included in the package. This slip has a special gift return number. Without it, you may receive store credit for the item’s current price.
Does Sephora have an extended return policy for Black Friday?
Yes, Black Friday purchases usually fall within the start of the holiday return window. Items bought on Black Friday should be eligible for the extended January return deadline.
Can I return a Sephora product without the box?
In most cases, yes, especially for skincare and makeup. For fragrances, the original box is more important. Always try to include the original packaging if you have it.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
Sephora’s holiday return policy is designed with the customer in mind. It provides flexibility and peace of mind during a hectic shopping season. The key is to be aware of the dates, keep your receipts, and not let returns pile up until the last minute.
By understanding the rules—like what final sale means and how gift returns work—you can avoid any suprises. Whether you’re exchanging a color that wasn’t right or getting a refund for a duplicate gift, the process is meant to be straightforward. Now you can shop Sephora’s holiday sets and sales knowing you have a safety net. Just remember to mark that January return deadline on your calendar.