Compare · Checked October 13, 2026
Sephora vs Ulta Beauty return policy
Return windows, free shipping, price match, mail return fees and holiday rules at Sephora and Ulta Beauty, side by side, from each store’s own policy.
The short answer
- Both give 30 days for most items, so the exceptions below decide it.
Shop at Sephora Shop at Ulta Beauty
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Sephora vs Ulta Beauty side by side
| Sephora | Ulta Beauty | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days | 30 days |
| Free shipping | Free for Beauty Insider members; $50 for guests | No set free-shipping minimum |
| Price match | Not stated | Not stated |
| Mail return fee | No fee listed | No fee listed |
| Holiday returns | None listed yet | None listed yet |
| No receipt | In-store returns without a receipt are processed if Sephora can find the purchase; if it cannot be verified, there is no refund, exchange or credit. | Gift receipt returns within 60 days: exchange or merchandise credit. |
| Good to know | Sephora.com returns are free, in a Sephora store or by mail with the prepaid label. | Days 31 to 60: merchandise credit instead of a refund |
| Shop | Shop at Sephora | Shop at Ulta Beauty |
Sephora exceptions
- Final sale: gift cards, certain Sephora Favorites kits and some intimate care items
- In-store, buy-online-pick-up-in-store and Instacart, DoorDash or Uber Eats orders cannot be returned by mail
- TikTok Shop purchases are returned through TikTok Shop
- Sephora.com and Sephora store purchases cannot be returned at Sephora at Kohl’s, and the other way around
Full details, sources and the date we checked: Sephora return policy.
Ulta Beauty exceptions
- Days 31 to 60: merchandise credit instead of a refund
- Not returnable: gift cards, salon-purchased wigs and hair extensions, intimate wellness devices, and single-use coupons
- Mini Brands capsules: unopened and sealed only
- TikTok Shop purchases: return through the TikTok app
Full details, sources and the date we checked: Ulta Beauty return policy.
Frequently asked questions
Which has the better return policy, Sephora or Ulta Beauty?
Both give 30 days for most items, so the exceptions below decide it. The right choice depends on what you are buying; check the exceptions for your item.
Can I return a Sephora item to Ulta Beauty?
No. Each store only takes back what it sold. Return the item to the store you bought it from.
Both stores’ rules come from their own policy pages, checked October 13, 2026. Sources are on each store page.