Return policy comparison · 2026
Sephora vs Ulta Beauty
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 by the Thrifle team
Sephora
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
Winner
Ulta Beauty
B+
3.7 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Ulta Beauty has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against Sephora's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 60-day window (decent) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
SephoraUlta Beauty
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| Sephora | Ulta Beauty | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (full refund), 31-60 days (store credit) | ✓ 60 days (30 for full refund, 31-60 store credit) |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Varies for mail | Customer pays mail return |
| Holiday extension | Yes - Oct 31 to Dec 30 through Jan 30 | Yes - Nov 1 to Dec 31 through Jan 31 |
| Holiday deadline | Jan 30 | Jan 31 |
| Non-returnable | Empty/fully used products, services, gift cards | Gift cards, services, fully used products |
| Watch-out items | Items marked final sale | Advent calendars excluded from holiday extension |
Sephora tip
Beauty Insiders can return without receipt — account tracks purchases. Return in-store for fastest refund.
Ulta Beauty tip
Return in-store to avoid mail shipping. Gently used beauty products accepted within 60 days.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Sephora or Ulta Beauty?
Ulta Beauty has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against Sephora's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 60-day window (decent) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Sephora's return window?
Sephora's return window is 30 days (full refund), 31-60 days (store credit).
What is Ulta Beauty's return window?
Ulta Beauty's return window is 60 days (30 for full refund, 31-60 store credit).
Does Sephora or Ulta Beauty offer free returns?
Sephora: Yes (in-store). Ulta Beauty: Yes (in-store).