Beauty & Makeup Retailers: How to Return Used Makeup and What to Expect
Got a lipstick that cracked or a foundation that turned weird? You’re not alone. Many shoppers wonder if they can send back used makeup. The good news? Some stores, like Ulta, actually let you return products you’ve already opened—if you follow a few simple rules.
How Ulta Handles Used Makeup Returns
Ulta’s return policy is friendly, but it does have limits. First, keep the original receipt. That’s your proof of purchase and the fastest way to get a refund or exchange.
Second, the product must be in its original packaging. If the box or bottle is damaged, the store can refuse the return. This helps the staff check that the item is still the same one you bought.
Third, timing matters. Ulta only accepts returns for items that are less than 30 days old. Anything older is usually a no‑go, even if it looks fine.
Finally, the condition of the product matters. Ulta expects the makeup to be in the same condition as when you left the store. If it’s clearly used, spilled, or missing parts, the manager can say no.
When you bring the item back, ask a store associate to start the return. They’ll check the receipt, look at the packaging, and decide if everything checks out. If the return is approved, you’ll get your money back the same way you paid—store credit, cash, or card refund.
General Return Tips for Beauty Retailers
Ulta isn’t the only place that allows returns of opened makeup. Many beauty chains have similar rules. Here’s a quick cheat sheet for any store:
- Keep receipts. Store them in a folder or on your phone so you can pull them out fast.
- Don’t lose packaging. Even if you keep a product for a week, hold onto the box or tube.
- Know the time window. Most retailers give you 30 days, but some offer 45 or even 60 days for seasonal items.
- Check the condition. If the product is noticeably used, you may need a manager’s okay.
- Ask before you buy. If you’re unsure about a brand’s return policy, ask a sales associate before checkout.
When you shop online, the process is similar but you’ll need to pack the item securely and include the receipt in the box. Some sites let you print a prepaid label directly from their website, which saves a trip to the post office.
If a store refuses a return, stay calm and ask to speak with a manager. Explain that you followed the policy—receipt, packaging, and timing. Most managers want to keep customers happy and will make an exception if you’re reasonable.
Remember, the goal of any return policy is to protect both the shopper and the retailer. By keeping your receipts, packaging, and timing in check, you’ll avoid most headaches.
So next time you buy a new shade of eyeshadow and it turns out to be a mismatch, you know exactly what steps to take. Keep the receipt, don’t trash the box, and head back to the store within 30 days. You’ll be back in the makeup aisle in no time, confident that a return won’t be a pain.
