What Is Sephora’s Return Policy? 

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Shopping for beauty products can be tricky, as it’s not always easy to find the perfect product on the first try. 

Knowing a store’s return policy can provide peace of mind when purchasing. 

At Sephora, a reputable beauty retailer, customers can take advantage of their return policy to ensure they’re satisfied with their beauty investments. 

Thankfully, Sephora’s return policy is straightforward and accommodating.

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Their policy allows customers to return new or gently used products within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. 

Beyond 30 days, some exceptions apply.

But most consumers state that Sephora aims to make the return process hassle-free.

Key Takeaways

  • Sephora offers a 30-day return policy for new or gently used products
  • The return process may vary for different products and situations
  • Keep your receipt for easier returns and be mindful of policy variations.

Understanding Sephora’s In-Store Return Policy

Sephora’s return policy is quite customer-friendly, and this guide will help you understand all the details.

If you’re not satisfied with a product, Sephora allows you to return new or “gently used” items within 30 days of purchase.

You can get a full refund, which they’ll process to your original payment method.

Just make sure to have your proof of purchase ready when you return the item.

For returns made between 31 and 60 days after the purchase date, Sephora will provide you with a refund in the form of online or store credit.

You will still need proof of purchase for this type of return. 

One of the best aspects of Sephora’s return policy is that they don’t charge you for in-store or online returns.

They even offer free return shipping labels, making it convenient and hassle-free for you to return items by mail.

Can I Return Sephora Products Purchased Online?

What Is Sephora's Return Policy_ online

Sephora sells its products on its popular online storefront, as well as through third-party marketplaces, including: 

  • Instagram
  • Google
  • YouTube
  • Facebook.

As long as your purchase was made within the 30 day grace period, you’re able to return your new or gently used products to any Sephora store location excluding Sephora at Khol’s locations. 

You’ll need to bring your online proof of purchase to the store to verify the return and the amount will be fully refunded to your original payment method. 

You can mail your items back to the Sephora warehouse as well.

Simply enter your order number and shipping code via this link, and the company will generate a pre-paid return label for your convenience.

Sephora Return Process for Different Products

When it comes to returning different products at Sephora, their return policy is quite generous and flexible.

Whether it’s foundation, perfume, or other beauty items, you’ll be able to send it back.

But are there certain circumstances where Sephora won’t accept products? Here are two unique scenarios to keep in mind: 

Gently Used Items

As mentioned above, Sephora accepts new or gently used products within 30 days of purchase. 

The definition of a “lightly used product” is up to the company’s discretion. 

However, many buyers state that using ¼ of a product or less qualifies for a return. This applies to makeup, perfume, and any other perishable item they carry.

What if you’ve misplaced the box or packaging? 

It may be more challenging to return items without their original box.

It’s still worth a try, as store employees have the discretion to determine if a return can be processed without the packaging.

Restricted Hazardous Items

There may also be limitations when returning aerosol and alcohol-based items through the mail.

These regulations are enforced by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s regulations

This can include:

  • Nail polish remover
  • Hairspray
  • Other flammable or combustible items

If there are any specific processes that need to be taken for these items, you’ll be alerted when you initiate your online return. 

Can I Return Items Without a Receipt?

So, you lost your receipt and are now wondering about Sephora’s return policy without it. 

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Even if you can’t find your receipt, you still have a chance to make a return at Sephora.

A customer service agent can try to find your order by looking up the credit or debit card number that is attached to the order.

If you’re a Sephora Beauty Insider club member, you can also provide the customer service agent with your account info to look up your purchases.

Now, it’s a bit trickier if you’re not a member or they can’t find your order in the system. 

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to make a return without a receipt and no order history in their system. 

However, if you have the original packaging or even proof of purchase, it’s always worth asking a Sephora representative to see what they can do for you.

In this case, Sephora will likely store credit for returns without receipts.

Exceptions in the Sephora Return Policy

What Is Sephora's Return Policy

Sephora is very generous with its return policy and accepts almost all items. Just make sure to return the item within 30 days for a payment refund and 60 days for store credit. 

Here are a few exceptions to be aware of:

  • Damaged items
  • Broken items
  • Items returned with missing pieces
  • Unclean or heavily used items

To avoid a rejected return, make sure to package your items as closely to their original condition as possible. Clean off any debris that may have accumulated as well.

You may want to take a picture of the item before sending it in case you need proof of condition for your return claim.

Another exception to consider is that certain items, like limited edition or promotional products, may have unique return policies. 

So, if you’re thinking of returning that exclusive palette or holiday set, it’s best to check the fine print or ask a store associate.

Return Without Receipt

First things first, if your order history is in Sephora’s system, you’re in luck! Your order is eligible for Sephora’s typical return and exchange policy, which is pretty generous. 

So, bring your membership card or the email address associated with your account when you go to the store.

Remember, Sephora welcomes returns within 30 days of purchase for a full refund in most cases, provided the item is new or gently used.

So, as long as your purchase falls within that time frame and they can verify it, you should be good to go.

In summary, while it’s not guaranteed that you can return products to Sephora without a receipt, there’s still a chance if your order is in their system.

So, hold onto your receipts and membership card to make the process smoother, just in case you need to make a return in the future.

Sephora Return Policy Timeline

Let’s talk about the timeline for returning items to Sephora.

First off, if you have any new or gently used products that you want to return, you should do it within 30 days of purchase. 

If you manage to do this, you’ll receive a full refund or exchange to your original payment method. 

So, if you’ve got the wrong shade or are simply not feeling it, these first 30 days are your best bet.

Now, if you happen to miss that 30-day window, don’t sweat it. Sephora still has your back. 

For items returned between 31 and 60 days after purchase, you’re eligible for online credit (if returned by mail) or store credit (if returned in-store).

Just remember to keep your proof of purchase handy to complete the return.

As for returns after 60 days, unfortunately, Sephora’s return policy doesn’t cover that timeframe. 

If you find yourself in this situation, your best option might be to gift the product to a friend or repurpose it.

Mailing Back Returns

Mailing your items back to Sephora is a breeze. Let’s take a look at how you can send your new or gently used products back to Sephora within 30 days of purchase.

First, gather the item(s) you want to return, along with the receipt or proof of purchase. 

Don’t forget to include any promotional or freebie items that came with your original order. 

Next, you’ll need the Return Form included in your package.

Fill it out and make sure to include the reason for your return.

Now, carefully package your items for return shipping. 

You don’t want those beautiful makeup products to get damaged! Securely place everything in a sturdy box, and tape it up well.

Be sure to remove or cover any old shipping labels on the package.

When you’re ready to send it off, head to your preferred shipping carrier (like UPS, FedEx, or USPS).

You’ll have to cover the cost of return shipping yourself, but we think it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. 

Keep in mind that Sephora is not responsible for returns that are lost in transit, so consider tracking your package for added security.

Once your return is received by Sephora, they’ll process your refund within a few days.

Just remember that it can take up to 30 days for the refund to reach your original payment method, depending on your financial institution. 

Whether you’re returning items purchased with Klarna or Afterpay, you can expect your account to be adjusted accordingly.

And that’s it! 

Final Thoughts: Sephora’s Return Policy

What Is Sephora's Return Policy

Here are a few final points to consider when returning items:

  • You can return items without a receipt as long as a Sephora representative can find the item in their system.
  • The return policy for used and open items is subject to the discretion of the store.
  • Don’t forget regional considerations, like different rules for Canadian returns.
  • Watch out for special cases, such as Sephora at Kohl’s or Sephora Inside JCPenney, as they might have separate return policies.

So, now that you have a better understanding of the various aspects of Sephora’s return policy, you’re fully equipped to make an informed decision during your shopping experience. 

Enjoy picking out your new beauty products, and remember, returns are easy and customer-friendly at Sephora!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return an opened product to Sephora?

Yes, you can return new or gently used products to Sephora.

The store accepts returns for products in such conditions as long as they are returned within the specified time frame.

Are returns accepted without a receipt?

Sephora’s return policy states that you must have proof of purchase to complete a return.

So, it’s recommended to have your receipt with you when attempting to return a product.

When is a return no longer eligible at Sephora?

A return is eligible for a full refund or exchange to the original method of payment within 30 days from the date of purchase. 

If you return the product within 31 to 60 days after the purchase date, it is eligible for online credit (if returned by mail) or store credit (if returned in-store).

Can I return a Sephora purchase made at Kohl’s?

Currently, there is no information available about returning Sephora purchases made at Kohl’s.

It’s best to check with the specific Kohl’s location or contact Sephora’s customer service for clarification.

Does Sephora flag frequent returns?

Sephora monitors return activity for abuse and reserves the right to limit returns or exchanges in all instances.

Be mindful of your return frequency to avoid issues in the future.

What if I lost the original packaging for my return?

If you have lost the original packaging, you can still return Sephora.com products to any Sephora retail store

It’s suggested to package the item securely and include the Return Form and original packing slip.

If returning by mail, use the Merchandise Return Label included in your original order to ensure free return shipping via USPS.

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About Emma Healey

Emma is a recognised family finance and budgeting expert and founder of Mum's Money. Her advice has been featured in Readers Digest, Yahoo Finance, Lifehacker, The Simple Dollar, MSN Money and more.