Sephora Return, Refund, and Exchange Policy [2024]

The Sephora Return Policy is crafted to provide a smooth and worry-free shopping experience for customers. When you purchase beauty products, whether they are makeup, skincare, or fragrances, having the option to return or exchange items is essential. This policy allows you to try products confidently, knowing you can return them if they don’t meet your expectations.

Sephora stands out in the beauty retail industry with its customer-friendly approach, offering a generous 60-day return window for most products. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or purchasing a gift, understanding the nuances of the return policy can save you from unexpected surprises.

Brand Name	Sephora
Return Policy	60-day return window. Full refund to the original payment method if returned within 30 days. Store credit issued for returns between 31-60 days.
Refund Policy	Refunds are processed back to the original payment method within 30 days. For online returns, shipping fees are not refunded unless due to an error on Sephora's part.
Exchange Policy	Exchanges allowed within 60 days. Online purchases must be returned first for a refund, then a new product can be purchased. In-store exchanges can be done directly.
Gifts Return	Gifts can be returned with a gift receipt for store credit. For online returns, refunds are issued as store credit.
Returns for Afterpay/Klarna	Purchases made with Afterpay or Klarna follow the same return policy. Remaining payments will be adjusted or refunded after the return is processed.
Sephora at Kohl’s Returns	Items bought at Sephora inside Kohl’s must be returned at Kohl’s stores with Sephora sections. Standalone Sephora stores cannot process these returns.
Customer Care Email	[email protected]
Customer Care Number	1-877-737-4672

Sephora Return Policy

Sephora’s return policy aims to be simple yet effective. Customers can return products within 60 days of purchase. However, there are a few key distinctions to keep in mind:

• Returns Within 30 Days: If you return your item within the first 30 days, you’ll receive a refund to your original form of payment. For example, if you paid using a credit card, the amount will be credited back to the same card.
• Returns Between 31-60 Days: After 30 days but within 60, you’ll receive store credit instead. This store credit can be used for future purchases, but it won’t expire.
  Products must be either unused or gently used. If you’ve tried a product and didn’t like it, you can still return it, but the condition of the item will be considered. The policy applies to most products, but there could be exceptions, so checking before making a return is always a smart move.

Additionally, Sephora reserves the right to limit returns if they suspect abuse of the policy. Therefore, returning items frequently without a reasonable explanation may result in being flagged. Always retain your receipt or order confirmation email to simplify the return process and avoid complications.

Returning Online Purchases

Returning online orders at Sephora is straightforward, giving customers two options: by mail or in-store. Each method has its own set of guidelines to ensure a smooth experience.

Return by Mail: If you bought something on Sephora’s website or through verified third-party platforms like Instagram, Google, or YouTube, you can return it by mail. Start by logging into your account and finding your order details. You’ll need to print out a prepaid return shipping label, which covers the cost of sending the item back. However, the original shipping fees are not refunded unless the return is due to a Sephora error, such as receiving the wrong product.

Make sure to pack the item securely, including the original packaging and packing slip. It’s best to use the same box it arrived in, but any sturdy packaging will work. Once you’ve mailed the return, Sephora will process it within 30 days. During peak times, like holidays, it might take a bit longer. Customers will receive an email confirmation once the return is processed, and refunds are issued to the original payment method within 30 days if returned within the initial 30-day window. For returns made between 31 to 60 days, a store credit will be issued.

Return In-Store: For quicker returns, you can bring your online purchase to any Sephora store. Make sure to bring your original packing slip or a digital receipt and the card you used to make the purchase. When returning items in-store, the same 30-day and 60-day refund rules apply: returns within the first 30 days will be credited to your original payment method, while returns after 30 days will earn store credit.

One thing to remember is that items bought from the Sephora website can also be returned to stores within Kohl’s locations, provided they are part of the Sephora at Kohl’s setup. However, not every item purchased online will be eligible for in-store return, especially if it was bought through certain third-party channels. It’s a good idea to confirm the eligibility before heading to the store.

This flexibility in returning online purchases offers convenience, whether you prefer to avoid shipping altogether or simply want to get your refund processed faster.

In-Store Purchase Returns

Sephora makes it easy to return products bought directly from their physical stores. If you’ve purchased an item in-store and need to return it, you have a 60-day window to do so. However, there are a few important details to keep in mind to ensure a hassle-free return.

• Return Within 30 Days: If you bring your item back within 30 days of purchase, Sephora will refund the full amount to your original payment method. For example, if you paid with a debit or credit card, the refund will be processed back to that card. Make sure to carry the original receipt, as this helps confirm the purchase and speeds up the process. If the item was bought using a gift card, your refund will be issued as store credit, which can be used for future purchases.
• Return Between 31-60 Days: For returns made after 30 days but before 60 days, you won’t get a direct refund. Instead, Sephora will issue a store credit, which you can use at any Sephora store or on their website. The store credit doesn’t expire, making it a flexible option if you plan on buying something later. However, it’s important to note that if you’ve lost your receipt, Sephora may still be able to find your order in their system if you used a registered Beauty Insider account during the purchase.
• Things to Consider: Items returned must be in new or gently used condition. Sephora allows customers to return products they’ve tried but didn’t like, a policy that sets them apart from some competitors. However, this leniency isn’t without limits. If the items show excessive use or damage, the return might be denied. Sephora also tracks returns and reserves the right to limit them if they suspect abuse, so frequent returns could lead to restrictions.
• Returns Without Receipt: Sephora’s return policy does have room for situations where you’ve lost your receipt. If the purchase can be verified through a Beauty Insider account or another means, you may still be eligible for a return. However, without any proof of purchase, refunds or store credits are unlikely, and returns may be declined.

Sephora’s in-store return policy is designed to give customers peace of mind when shopping. Just be sure to follow the rules and keep your receipts handy to make the process as smooth as possible.

Return Policy for Sephora at Kohl’s

Sephora has expanded its presence through partnerships with Kohl’s, allowing customers to shop for Sephora products at select Kohl’s locations. This setup has its own return guidelines, and it’s important to understand how returns work if you’ve bought your products from a Sephora section inside Kohl’s or online via Kohl’s website.

• Return Process for Sephora at Kohl’s Purchases: If you bought a Sephora product from a Kohl’s store, you can return it within 60 days, much like the standard Sephora policy. However, there’s a key distinction: items purchased from a Sephora inside Kohl’s must be returned at a Sephora at Kohl’s location. You cannot take these items to a standalone Sephora store or any other Kohl’s that doesn’t have a Sephora section. Make sure to carry your receipt for a smooth refund or exchange.
• Online Purchases via Kohl’s Website: For those who purchased Sephora products online through Kohl’s, you can return them by either mailing them back or visiting a Kohl’s store with a Sephora inside. Ensure you bring your order confirmation and follow the return instructions provided in your online purchase details. Similar to standard returns, refunds for items returned within 30 days will be issued to the original form of payment, while those returned after 30 days (but before 60 days) will be refunded as store credit.
• Store Credit and Gift Card Considerations: If your purchase was made using a Kohl’s gift card or a combination of payment methods, your refund will follow the same rules. Purchases originally paid for using a gift card will receive a store credit refund, valid for future purchases either at Sephora or within the Sephora section at Kohl’s.

Holiday Return Policy

During the holiday season, Sephora understands that shopping can be a bit different. People are buying gifts, and sometimes, those gifts might not be the perfect match. To accommodate this, Sephora extends its standard return window, giving customers more flexibility when making returns. This is especially helpful for those purchasing early to avoid the holiday rush.

• Extended Return Window: For items purchased during the holiday period, typically between early November and the end of December, Sephora provides an extended return window. While exact dates may vary each year, the extension usually allows returns until the end of January. This extended period ensures that even if a gift is purchased early, the recipient still has ample time to decide if it’s right for them.
• Returns and Refunds: The standard rules still apply: if a product is returned within 30 days, the refund will go back to the original payment method. However, if you return it after 30 days (but within the extended holiday period), the refund will be issued as store credit. As always, make sure the product is in new or gently used condition, and include the receipt or order confirmation to simplify the return.

Gift Receipts and Store Credit: If you’re returning a gift, it’s a good idea to ask the gift-giver for a gift receipt. This makes the process easier and avoids any awkward situations. When a gift is returned, Sephora typically provides a store credit, which can be used to purchase other products either in-store or online. If the item was bought from a Sephora inside Kohl’s, the gift return must be processed at a Kohl’s location with a Sephora section.

Sephora Exchange Policy

Sephora’s exchange policy is designed to offer flexibility, allowing customers to switch out products that may not have worked as expected. Whether you bought the wrong shade of foundation or received a skincare product that didn’t match your skin type, Sephora provides a straightforward process to make exchanges both in-store and online.

• In-Store Exchanges: If you purchased an item in-store, you can easily exchange it at any Sephora location. Bring the product along with your original receipt or a gift receipt. As long as it’s within the 60-day return window, Sephora will allow you to swap the product for something else. Exchanges are treated similarly to returns; if the product is exchanged within 30 days, there will be no issue. The cost difference, if any, can be paid at the time of the exchange, or a store credit can be issued if the new item costs less.
• Online Purchase Exchanges: Currently, Sephora does not process direct exchanges for online purchases by mail. If you wish to exchange an item purchased online, you’ll need to return it first, following the online return process, and then make a new purchase for the desired product. This may mean waiting for the return to be processed before you can reorder, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you need the new product quickly.
• Exchange Policy for Sephora at Kohl’s: Sephora purchases made at Kohl’s can be exchanged at any Kohl’s store that has a Sephora section. However, you cannot exchange these products at standalone Sephora stores. The same rules apply: bring your original receipt, and ensure the product is in new or gently used condition. Kohl’s and Sephora have integrated systems for handling exchanges, making it simple for customers to get what they need without hassle.

Gift Returns

Returning a gift to Sephora is simple, even if you didn’t make the original purchase yourself. Whether you received a skincare set that doesn’t suit your skin type or a fragrance that isn’t your favorite, Sephora offers options to make gift returns easy and hassle-free.

• Returning Gifts In-Store: To return a gift in-store, bring the product along with a gift receipt if you have one. The gift receipt acts as proof of purchase without revealing the price, ensuring a smooth return process. If you don’t have a gift receipt, it may still be possible to return the item if the purchase can be traced back to the original transaction. For example, if the gift was bought using a registered Beauty Insider account, Sephora staff can locate the purchase and process the return. When returning a gift, Sephora typically offers store credit instead of cash refunds. This store credit can be used on any future purchases, giving you the flexibility to pick something more to your liking. If the original purchase was made with a gift card, the refunded amount would also be issued as store credit.
• Gift Returns by Mail: If the gift was bought online and you prefer to return it by mail, you’ll need the original packing slip or order confirmation. Head to Sephora’s website, print out a prepaid return shipping label and pack the item securely with the packing slip included. The return will be processed similarly to other mail-in returns. Note that shipping fees are generally not refunded unless the return is due to an error on Sephora’s part. Like with in-store gift returns, refunds for online gift returns will be issued as store credit. It’s important to include as much information as possible, like order numbers and the name of the original buyer, to ensure a quick and easy process.
• Returning Gifts from Sephora at Kohl’s: For those who received gifts from Sephora inside Kohl’s, the return process is slightly different. You’ll need to return the product to a Kohl’s location that has a Sephora section. Standalone Sephora stores won’t be able to process these returns. As with other returns, having a gift receipt makes the process straightforward, and you’ll receive store credit that can be used within any Sephora at Kohl’s.

Refunds for Payments Through Afterpay, Klarna, and Other Methods

Sephora has partnered with several payment services like Afterpay and Klarna, offering customers flexible ways to pay for their purchases. But what happens if you need to return an item you bought using one of these services? Understanding how refunds work for different payment methods can save you from unnecessary confusion.

• Refunds for Afterpay and Klarna Purchases: When you make a purchase using Afterpay or Klarna, you’re essentially agreeing to a buy-now, pay-later plan. If you return an item purchased through one of these services, the refund process is slightly different from standard payments. Here’s what you need to know:
• Refund Timeline: When you return a product paid for with Afterpay or Klarna, Sephora processes the refund according to its usual return policy (within 30 days for a refund to the original payment method and between 31-60 days for store credit). However, once the refund is initiated, Afterpay or Klarna will adjust your payment plan accordingly. If you’ve paid off all the installments, you’ll receive a refund for the amount you’ve already paid. If you’re still paying in installments, the remaining payments will be canceled, and any paid installments will be refunded.
• Returning In-Store: If you need to return an item bought online with Afterpay or Klarna, you can return it at a physical Sephora location. Be sure to bring the product, receipt, and any details related to your payment plan. Sephora will process the return, and the payment service will handle the rest.
• Return by Mail: For mail returns, the refund will also be processed by Sephora and reflected in your Afterpay or Klarna account. It’s important to follow all instructions when mailing your return to ensure it’s accepted.
• Refunds for Gift Cards and Store Credit: When purchases are made using Sephora gift cards or store credit, refunds cannot be processed back to the original payment method. Instead, you will receive store credit. This credit can be used for any future purchase and does not have an expiration date. For combined purchases using a gift card and another payment method, refunds will be issued to both the gift card (as store credit) and the secondary payment method proportionally.
• Refunds for Purchases via PayPal: For those who used PayPal, Sephora will refund directly to your PayPal account. The refund process typically follows the same timeline as regular returns, with refunds issued to your PayPal account within a few business days after the return is processed. Be sure to check your PayPal account for confirmation, as it may take some time to reflect depending on PayPal’s processing.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)

Can I return an item to Sephora without a receipt?

Yes, Sephora allows returns without a receipt, but there are limitations. If the purchase can be verified through a Beauty Insider account, they may process the return. However, without proof of purchase, refunds may not be possible, and in some cases, the return could be denied. For items returned without a receipt, you may receive store credit based on the current selling price of the product.

How long does Sephora take to process refunds?

Sephora usually processes refunds within 30 days. For returns made in-store, refunds to the original payment method are generally processed immediately, though the funds might take a few days to reflect, depending on your bank or payment service. For returns by mail, the process begins once Sephora receives the item, which can add a few extra days to the overall timeline.

Can I return items purchased online at a Sephora inside Kohl’s?

Yes, you can return items purchased from Sephora’s website at a Sephora location inside Kohl’s. However, not all items are eligible for return at Kohl’s locations, so it’s a good idea to check the return eligibility on Sephora’s website or call ahead. Remember to bring your packing slip or digital receipt for a smooth process.

What if I bought a Sephora product at Kohl’s?

Can I return it to a standalone Sephora store? No, items purchased at a Sephora section within Kohl’s must be returned to a Kohl’s store with a Sephora section. Standalone Sephora stores cannot process returns for these purchases. Make sure to bring your original receipt for an efficient return or exchange.

Are there exceptions to Sephora’s return policy?

Yes, Sephora’s return policy does have a few exceptions. Some items, like gift cards, cannot be returned or refunded. Additionally, items with excessive use or damage may not qualify for return. During promotional periods, limited edition products or certain discounted items may also have special return restrictions, which will be specified at the time of purchase.

Can I return a product that I have tried but didn’t like?

Yes, Sephora allows returns for gently used products. If you’ve tried a product and found it wasn’t right for you, you can still return it, provided it’s within the 60-day return window. Sephora’s generous policy gives you peace of mind to try new products without worrying about being stuck with something you don’t like. However, excessive use may lead to a return denial.

How do refunds work if I paid with Afterpay or Klarna?

Refunds for purchases made with Afterpay or Klarna follow Sephora’s standard policy. If you return an item, the payment service will adjust your payment plan accordingly. If you have completed payments, any amounts paid will be refunded, and the remaining payments will be canceled. If you return in-store, refunds are processed the same way, with adjustments managed by Afterpay or Klarna. Be sure to check with the payment service if you have questions about your installments.

Wrapping Up

Understanding Sephora’s return, refund, and exchange policies is essential for a seamless shopping experience. Whether you’re buying new lipstick, skincare products, or fragrances, knowing how to navigate returns and exchanges can save you time and prevent frustration.