Ulta Product Return Policy

Knowing the Ulta product return policy can save you time and money. It’s the key to shopping with confidence, whether you’re trying a new foundation or a bold eyeshadow palette. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to the condition your items must be in.

We’ll cover returns for online orders, in-store purchases, and even those tricky opened products. You’ll learn the simple steps to get your money back or make an exchange. Let’s get started.

The core Ulta product return policy is designed to be guest-friendly. In most cases, you can return items within 60 days of purchase for a full refund. The policy applies to both used and unused products, with a few important exceptions.

You have two main options: get your money back or exchange the item for something else. The process is slightly different depending on where you bought the item and how you plan to return it.

Key Timeframes and Rules

Keeping the deadlines in mind is crucial for a smooth return. Here are the most important time limits:

60 Days for Most Items: You have 60 days from the date of purchase to return products for a refund to your original payment method.
90 Days for Ultamate Rewards Members: If you’re a free Ultamate Rewards member, you get an extra 30 days. Your return window extends to 90 days from purchase.
Holiday Extension: Purchases made between November and December often have a extended return deadline, usually until the end of January. Check your receipt for the exact date.
Final Sale Items: Some items are marked as final sale and cannot be returned. This is common for clearance items, certain beauty tools, and items purchased with a discount from third-party sites like Rakuten.

Condition of Returned Items

Ulta is known for its generous “Even if you’ve tried it” policy. This means you can return products you’ve opened and used.

Used Products: Yes, you can return products you have tested and didn’t like. This is a major benefit for finding the right shade or formula.
Unused Products: Obviously, unused items in their original packaging are always accepted.
Damaged or Defective Items: If an item arrives damaged or is defective, contact Ulta Customer Service immediately. They will help you with a replacement or refund.
Must Have Proof of Purchase: You need your receipt, packing slip, or the credit card you used to buy the item. Without proof, you may only recieve store credit at the current selling price.

What You Need to Make a Return

Gathering the right items before you go to the store or mail your package makes everything faster. Here’s your checklist:

The product(s) you wish to return.
The original receipt, packing slip, or shipping confirmation email.
The original form of payment (if seeking a refund to your card).
Your government-issued ID for returns without a receipt.
Any free gifts that came with the purchase, if applicable.

How to Return an Online Order to a Store

This is often the quickest way. You can return items you bought online to any Ulta Beauty retail store.

Bring the item and its original packaging.
Bring your packing slip or the shipping email confirmation.
Go to the checkout counter and let an associate know you’d like to make a return.
The associate will process your return. Your refund will be issued to your original payment method, usually within a few business days.

How to Return an Online Order by Mail

If you don’t live near a store, mailing your return is easy. Follow these steps:

Log into your Ulta.com account and go to “My Orders.”
Find the order containing the item you want to return and select “Return Items.”
Follow the prompts to create a return authorization and print your prepaid return label.
Pack the items securely in a box, attach the label, and drop it at a UPS location.
Once Ulta receives and processes your return, you’ll get an email confirmation and your refund will be issued. This can take up to 14 business days after they get the package.

How to Return an In-Store Purchase

Returning something you bought at a physical Ulta location is straightforward.

Take the item and your receipt to any Ulta Beauty store.
An associate at the register will handle the return.
You can choose a refund to your original payment, store credit, or an exchange for a different product.

What About Returns Without a Receipt?

If you’ve lost your receipt, you can still often make a return. The store will look up your purchase using the credit card you used. If they can’t find it, you may be eligible for store credit at the item’s current lowest selling price. You will need to show a valid government-issued ID for this type of return.

Understanding Refund Methods and Timing

How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds go back to the original card. It can take 3-10 business days to appear on your statement after processing.
PayPal: Refunds are issued back to your PayPal account.
Store Credit/Gift Card: If you choose this or return without a receipt, you’ll get an Ulta Beauty e-gift card.
Cash: For in-store purchases paid with cash, you will recieve a cash refund.
Buy Online, Return In-Store: The refund processes to your original payment method, not as cash or instant store credit at the register.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Not every item follows the standard rules. Pay attention to these categories.

Fragrance Returns

For health and safety reasons, opened fragrance products cannot be returned unless they are defective. Unopened fragrances in their original seal can be returned within the standard 60/90-day window.

Beauty Device and Tool Returns

Electic beauty tools like facial brushes, hair dryers, and LED masks have a different policy. They must be returned within 30 days of purchase and must be unopened and in their original packaging. Once opened, they can only be exchanged for the same item if defective.

Dyson Product Returns

Dyson products purchased at Ulta have a strict 30-day return policy from the purchase date. They must be returned in like-new condition with all original parts and packaging. Due to their high value, it’s recommended to return Dyson items in-store if possible.

Returning Gifts

If you received an item as a gift, you can return it. You’ll need the gift receipt. Without a gift receipt, you may only be able to get store credit at the current price. The refund will be issued as an Ulta Beauty e-gift card.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

Keep Your Receipts: File your paper receipts or save your email confirmations in a special folder.
Act Quickly: Don’t let items sit in your closet. Test products soon after purchase so you have plenty of time to return them if needed.
Bring Your ID: Always have your ID with you for in-store returns, just in case.
Return Free Gifts: If you return a purchase that qualified for a free gift, you must return the gift as well. If you keep it, its value may be deducted from your refund.
Check the Final Sale List: Before buying clearance or heavily discounted items, assume they might be final sale.

Ulta’s Return Policy vs. Other Retailers

Ulta’s policy is generally more lenient than many competitors, especially with its allowance for used makeup returns. Sephora has a similar 60-day policy for used items. Department stores often have shorter windows or only accept unopened products. Always check a store’s policy before making a big purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I return used makeup to Ulta?

Yes, Ulta’s policy allows returns on used makeup and skincare products within the return window. This is one of the best features of their policy.

What is Ulta’s return policy without a receipt?

You can often get store credit at the current selling price with a valid ID. If the store can look up the purchase with your card, you might get a refund to that card.

How long does an Ulta refund take?

In-store refunds to cards take 3-10 business days. Online return refunds can take up to 14 business days after the warehouse receives your package.

Can I return online orders to any Ulta store?

Yes, you can return items bought on Ulta.com to any physical Ulta Beauty retail location for your convenience.

Does Ulta accept returns after 60 days?

For non-members, returns after 60 days are typically not accepted for a refund. Ultamate Rewards members have 90 days. Sometimes store credit may be offered at managements discretion, but it’s not guaranteed.

What is Ulta’s perfume return policy?

Opened fragrances cannot be returned for health reasons. Unopened, sealed fragrances can be returned within the standard time period.

Can I return a Dyson to Ulta?

Yes, but Dyson products have a strict 30-day return window and must be in like-new condition with all accessories and packaging.

Are there any restocking fees at Ulta?

No, Ulta does not charge any restocking fees for returns that follow their policy guidelines.

Common Problems and Solutions

Sometimes returns don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to handle common issues.

Problem: The store says they can’t find my purchase with my credit card.
Solution: Ask if they can try another method, like your phone number if you’re a rewards member. If not, you can accept store credit or contact Ulta customer service for help with your online order history.

Problem: My online return was delivered but I haven’t gotten my refund.
Solution: Wait the full 14 business days. Then, check your email for a return confirmation. If you have that confirmation but no refund, contact customer service with the return authorization number.

Problem: I lost the free gift that came with my purchase.
Solution: If you can’t return the gift, its retail value may be subtracted from your total refund amount. It’s always best to return everything together.

Understanding the Ulta product return policy gives you the freedom to try new beauty products without worry. By knowing the time limits, what to bring, and how to handle special items, you can ensure every return is simple. Always double-check your receipts and act within the window to make the most of this guest-friendly policy. Remember, the staff at your local store are there to help if you have any questions during the process.