Ulta Beauty Return Policy

Understanding the Ulta Beauty return policy is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought the wrong foundation shade or a skincare product didn’t work out, knowing the rules helps you shop with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about making returns and exchanges, both in-store and online.

The core Ulta Beauty return policy is designed to be guest-friendly. You can return most new and gently used items within 60 days of purchase for a full refund to your original payment method. After 60 days, you typically receive store credit. It’s a straightforward system that gives you two months to try your products.

What You Need for a Successful Return

To make your return go smoothly, you’ll want to gather a few things before heading to the store or mailing a package. Having everything ready saves you time and ensures there are no hangups.

The original receipt or packing slip: This is the easiest way to process your return. It provides the transaction details the store associate needs.
The credit card used for purchase: If you paid with a card, having it with you helps speed up the refund process.
A government-issued photo ID: Ulta requires an ID for returns, especially those without a receipt, as part of their fraud prevention system.
The item in its original packaging: While you can return gently used products, having the original box or container is best.

Return Timeframes: 60 Days vs. Beyond

The 60-day mark is the most important date to remember. It determines how you get your money back. The policy is clear, but there are a couple nuances to keep in mind.

Within 60 Days: With a receipt or proof of purchase, you get a full refund back to your original form of payment. This includes credit cards, debit cards, Ultamate Rewards points, and gift cards.
After 60 Days: Returns made after 60 days with a receipt will be refunded as merchandise credit to an Ulta Beauty gift card. The value is based on the current selling price.
Without a Receipt: If you lost your receipt, Ulta will attempt to look up the purchase using your ID. If found, the return follows the timeframes above. If not, you’ll receive the lowest selling price in the last 90 days as merchandise credit.

How to Return an Online Purchase

Returning something you bought on ulta.com is simple. You have two main options: mailing it back or taking it to a store. The in-store option is often faster.

Option 1: Return by Mail

Log into your Ulta.com account and go to “Order History.”
Select the item(s) you wish to return and follow the prompts to generate a prepaid return label.
Pack the items securely in a box, include the return packing slip, and attach the label.
Drop the package off at a USPS location. Once received, refunds are processed within 14 business days.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is usually the quickest method. Just bring the item, the packing slip (or the order confirmation email), and your ID to any Ulta Beauty store. The associate will process the return right there, and your refund will be issued on the spot if you’re within the 60-day window.

How to Return an In-Store Purchase

For items bought at a physical Ulta location, you’ll need to return them to a store. You cannot mail back an in-store purchase. Simply bring the item, your receipt, and the payment card used (if applicable) to any Ulta Beauty store. The process is usually completed in just a few minutes.

Special Considerations and Exceptions

While the policy covers most situations, there are a few special cases. It’s good to be aware of these before you make a purchase.

Fragrances: For health and safety reasons, fragrances can only be returned if the seal is unbroken and the packaging is tamper-evident.
Beauty Services: Services like haircuts, brow waxing, or makeup applications are generally not refundable. If you have a concern about a service, it’s best to discuss it directly with the store manager.
Final Sale & Clearance Items: Some deeply discounted clearance items may be marked as final sale. These are not eligible for return, so check the label or online description carefully.
Used Products: Ulta does accept returns on gently used products. This is part of their “Love It or Return It” guarantee. However, if a product is significantly used (like more than half gone), the store manager may need to approve the return.

Understanding Exchanges

If you just want to swap a product for a different color or formula, an exchange is the way to go. The process is straightforward, especially in-store.

In-Store Exchanges: Bring the item and receipt to an Ulta store. You can pick out the new product you want and pay any price difference right there.
Online Exchanges: Ulta.com does not offer direct exchanges. To get a different item, you would need to return the original purchase (by mail or in-store) and then place a new order for the product you want.

Refund Methods and Timing

How you get your money back depends on how you paid and where you return the item. Here’s what to expect:

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds appear on your statement within 3-10 business days, depending on your bank’s processing time.
PayPal: Refunds to PayPal are usually instant once Ulta processes the return.
Ulta Gift Card: Refunds to a gift card are immediate when processed in-store or shortly after online processing.
Ultamate Rewards Points: If you used points, they will be credited back to your rewards account. Any points earned on the original purchase will be deducted.
Store Credit: Issued as an Ulta Beauty gift card, which you can use immediately.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

A little preparation makes the return process effortless. Follow these tips to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Keep your receipt in a safe place, or take a picture of it with your phone as a backup.
If you’re unsure about a product, try it soon after purchase so you’re well within the 60-day window.
Return online purchases in-store when possible for an instant refund and to avoid shipping hassles.
Always bring your ID, even if you have the receipt—it’s a standard requirement.
Be polite to the store associates; they are there to help and can often make exceptions or offer solutions if you encounter a problem.

Ulta’s Return Policy vs. Other Beauty Retailers

How does Ulta stack up against competitors? Their policy is generally considered one of the more generous in the beauty industry.

Sephora: Also has a 60-day return policy for a full refund with receipt. Without a receipt, returns are typically offered as store credit.
Department Stores: Policies vary widely, but return windows are often shorter (30 days is common).
Drugstores: Many have strict no-return policies on opened cosmetics for health reasons.

Ulta’s acceptance of gently used returns and its 60-day window gives you a real chance to test products, which is a significant advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I return something to Ulta without the box?

Yes, you can usually return a product without its original box. However, the item itself should be in good condition and all primary components should be included. For example, returning a palette without its lid might be problematic.

What is Ulta’s return policy for online orders?

The policy for online orders is the same as for in-store purchases: 60 days for a full refund with receipt. You can return online orders by mail with a prepaid label or take them to any Ulta Beauty store for faster processing.

How long does it take to get a refund from Ulta?

For in-store returns, the refund is processed immediately at the register. For mail-in returns, allow 14 business days for Ulta to receive and process the package, plus another 3-10 business days for your bank to post the refund to your account.

Can I return a used makeup product to Ulta?

Yes, Ulta’s policy allows returns on gently used products. This is part of their guarantee. If a product didn’t work for you, even if you tried it once or twice, you can typically return it within the 60-day period.

Does Ulta accept returns without a receipt?

Yes, but with conditions. They will ask for your ID and attempt to look up the purchase. If found, the standard timeframes apply. If not, you’ll receive merchandise credit for the item’s lowest selling price in the past 90 days.

What items cannot be returned to Ulta?

The main exceptions are opened fragrances (unless defective), beauty services, and items clearly marked “Final Sale.” Always check the packaging or website for any specific non-returnable designations.

Can I return a gift to Ulta?

Yes, if you received an Ulta item as a gift, you can return it. You will need the gift receipt to receive store credit. Without any receipt, the return will be handled as a no-receipt return with ID, resulting in merchandise credit.

Navigating Problems with a Return

Occasionally, you might run into an issue, like a denied return or a missing refund. Don’t worry—there are clear steps to resolve it.

Stay Calm and Ask for a Manager: The cashier may be following strict guidelines. A store manager often has more authority to make exceptions or find a solution.
Check the Dates and Product: Ensure your return is within 60 days and the item isn’t on the exclusion list (like an opened fragrance). Sometimes the problem is a simple oversight.
Contact Ulta Guest Services: If the store can’t resolve it, call Ulta’s customer service at 1-866-983-8582. Have your receipt, order number, and any relevant details ready.
Check Your Bank Statement: For delayed refunds, wait the full 10 business days before contacting anyone, as bank processing times vary.

Knowing the ins and outs of the Ulta Beauty return policy empowers you to make purchases without worry. The 60-day window is generous, and the ability to return gently used items is a standout feature in the beauty industry. By keeping your receipt, bringing your ID, and understanding the few exceptions, you can ensure every return or exchange is a simple, straightforward process. This policy is really designed to let you experiment and find the products you truly love, making your beauty journey much more enjoyable.