Ulta’s Return Policy: What To Know Before You Go

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Bought that foundation shade online and realized it’s way off? Or maybe your skincare haul didn’t vibe with your skin type after all? Whatever the reason, knowing the Ulta return policy can make the whole process of sending stuff back way less stressful.

Here’s everything you need to know about returning to Ulta — whether you bought in-store or online — so you can shop confidently (and maybe even avoid a few common mistakes).

Return Timeframes

Ulta makes returns pretty straightforward, giving customers a generous window to change their minds.

General Return Window

• 60 days from the original purchase date for a full refund.
• Returns after 60 days are accepted but only for store credit based on the item’s lowest selling price.

Holiday or Special Return Extensions

• During peak seasons like holidays, Ulta occasionally extends return periods, though details vary from year to year. Always check your receipt or ask in-store.

Important Notes

• Proof of purchase is highly recommended for a smooth return.
• Both in-store and online purchases follow the same 60-day policy.

Try to start your return sooner rather than later to avoid missing the 60-day full refund window!

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Ulta is flexible, even accepting returns for used beauty products if you’re unsatisfied — but there are a few rules to keep in mind.

Eligible Items

• Beauty products (even if gently used)
• Haircare and skincare products
• Tools like hair dryers and straighteners (must include accessories)
• Fragrance (must be mostly full)

Items Not Eligible

• Gift cards
• Items purchased with a third-party retailer (like Target or Kohl’s)
• Items with missing parts (e.g., brushes without attachments)

Always bring original accessories, manuals and packaging when returning non-cosmetic items.

Refund Options

Here’s how Ulta handles your money when you make a return:

Refund Methods

• Original form of payment (credit card, debit, PayPal, Ulta gift card)
• Store credit for returns without a receipt or returns after 60 days

Refund Timeline

• Most refunds appear within 5 to 7 business days after processing.
• Cash refunds are immediate if the original payment was made in cash.

Possible Deductions

• Ulta doesn’t charge restocking fees.
• Original shipping fees are non-refundable unless the return is due to an error.

In-Store vs. Online Returns

Ulta makes it easy to return products, no matter how you bought them.

Comparison Table:

Common Return Issues & How To Solve Them

Missing your receipt?

If you used your Ultamate Rewards account at checkout, Ulta can often look up your purchase history.

Returning used or opened products?

No problem — Ulta accepts gently used products if you’re not satisfied, as long as it’s within the 60-day window.

Returning gifts?

If you have a gift receipt, you’ll receive a refund to a gift card. Without it, your refund will be based on the item’s lowest sale price as store credit.

Past the 60-day window?

Returns after 60 days are still accepted, but refunds are given as store credit only.

How To Start a Return

Ready to send something back? Here’s how:

In-Store Return

1. Bring the item, original receipt (or account info) and original payment method.
2. Visit the Guest Services desk.
3. Staff will process your return or exchange on the spot.

Online Return

1. Log into your Ulta account.
2. Find your order under “Order History.”
3. Select the item you want to return and follow the prompts.
4. Print the free return label and package the item securely.
5. Drop off at a designated carrier location.

Use the original shipping box if possible, and keep tracking info until your refund clears!

Final Take to GO: Ulta Returns Are Pretty Hassle-Free

Knowing the Ulta return policy makes shopping there even better — you can try out products knowing you have flexibility if they don’t work out.

Quick Recap

• You have 60 days for a full refund and up to store credit after 60 days.
• Opened or used items are usually returnable if you’re unsatisfied.
• Refunds go back to your original payment method or Ulta gift card.
• Returns are easy to handle either in-store or by mail.

Next time you shop, keep your receipts, track your rewards account purchases and remember — you have options if your beauty buy doesn’t turn out perfect.

Information is accurate as of April 29, 2025.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.

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