Walmart Makeup Return Policy In 2023 [Simply Explained!]
As an experienced ecommerce seller, I often get questions about return policies at major retailers like Walmart. Many customers want to know – can you return makeup items to Walmart? What‘s their policy in 2023?
In this definitive guide, I‘ll explain everything you need to know about Walmart‘s makeup and cosmetics return policy. Whether you‘re looking to exchange or get a refund on an opened beauty product, this article will cover all the details to make returns quick and hassle-free.
Overview of Walmart‘s Return Policy
Walmart offers a standard 90 day return policy for most items purchased in-store and online. For unopened makeup products, this means you can get a full refund back to your original payment method if you have a receipt.
For opened or used makeup, Walmart will allow an even exchange for the same item or provide a store credit if you have a receipt. Without a receipt, you may still be able to exchange opened makeup for a similar product.
Returning Opened or Used Makeup
The good news is that yes, Walmart does accept returns on opened and used makeup products! This includes items like:
- Foundations, powders, concealers, bronzers
- Blushes, highlighters, contour palettes
- Eyeshadows, mascaras, eyeliners
- Lipsticks, glosses, stains, liners
- Makeup removers and makeup brushes
As an experienced seller, I recommend always returning makeup in its original packaging, even if it‘s been opened. Have any included applicators, brushes, sponges, or accessories? Be sure to return those too.
This helps Walmart verify the item and process your return more quickly. If possible, include your receipt for a smoother return experience.
Without a receipt, Walmart may need to see a valid photo ID and store your info before processing the exchange or credit. This helps prevent returns fraud.
Exceptions: Items You Can‘t Return Used
While Walmart is generous with beauty returns, there are select products that must be unopened:
Perfumes – Due to flammability laws, perfumes must be returned sealed and unused.
Aerosols – Hairsprays, dry shampoo, and certain styling products must be unopened.
Nail polishes – For sanitary reasons, Walmart can‘t resell opened nail color.
If you try returning used aerosols, perfumes, or polishes, Walmart will only allow an even exchange for an identical replacement item. No refunds.
Additionally, mini/travel sizes and makeup bundles with free gifts are typically final sale. Always check your receipt!
How to Return Online Makeup Orders
Returning Walmart.com orders? No problem! Here are the steps as an ecommerce seller:
- Log into your Walmart.com account and navigate to order history
- Find the makeup item you want to return and select "Start a Return"
- Choose whether you want a refund or exchange (if still in stock)
- Print the prepaid shipping label and return by mail
Once received at the warehouse, it takes 2-3 business days for your refund to process back to the original payment method.
Exchanges may take 5-7 business days to arrive if still available for reorder. If not, you‘ll be notified to choose a different product or get a refund.
Can You Return Makeup Without a Receipt?
Forgot or lost your Walmart receipt? Don‘t worry, you can still return makeup without a receipt by:
- Bringing a valid photo ID to the store
- Providing ID number so the return can be logged
- Choosing a store credit or even exchange
By looking up past purchases tied to your ID, Walmart can verify you bought the item within the 90 day policy.
For makeup under $25, some stores may offer cash back without a receipt – but this varies by location. Exchanges for identical items are usually approved if the product looks new.
Return Tips From a Pro Seller
As an experienced retail seller, here are my tips for easy Walmart makeup returns:
Keep all packaging – Even if opened, return in original box with instructions.
Check for recalls – Returns are easy if makeup was recalled or expired.
Avoid restock fees – Return within 90 days. After that, Walmart may charge fees.
Return to any store – Makeup can be returned to any location, not just your original store.
Track return status – If returning by mail, make sure to track your package.
Get refunds faster – Have your receipt and original payment method ready.
Know the policy – Print or save this guide so you know what can and can‘t be returned!
| Return Scenario | Walmart‘s Policy | What You‘ll Get Back |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened makeup < 90 days | Allowed | Full refund |
| Opened makeup < 90 days with receipt | Allowed | Even exchange or store credit |
| Used makeup < 90 days no receipt | Allowed | Even exchange only |
| Aerosols/perfumes/polish opened | Not allowed | Even exchange only |
| Makeup > 90 days no receipt | Not allowed | No return or exchange |
State-by-State Variations
It‘s important to note Walmart‘s return policy can vary slightly by state law. Here are a few location-specific policies I‘ve noticed as a seller:
- California – Requires acceptance of returns up to 180 days, 10% restocking fee after 90 days
- Vermont – Must accept exchanges/credit on opened returns over 90 days
- Massachusetts – Required to allow returns without time limit if defective
- Maryland – Must provide cash refunds for items under $5 even without receipt
When in doubt, check your specific state laws regarding retail returns and exchanges. Walmart‘s standard policy applies in most locations.
The Pros of Walmart Makeup Returns
Why might you choose to return makeup to Walmart over other retailers? Here are some of the advantages:
90 day policy – More time than Sephora‘s typical 30 days.
No need for receipt – Can return with just an ID in most cases.
Easy online returns – Free shipping labels and tracking for Walmart.com orders.
Refund options – Get money back on original payment method.
Availability – With over 4,700 stores, easy to access.
inexpensive makeup – Great selection of budget-friendly brands.
Potential Cons to Consider
Walmart makeup returns are convenient, but there are a couple caveats to look out for:
Restocking fees – If past 90 days, stores in some states charge fees.
No refunds on used – Can only exchange opened aerosols, perfumes, nail polish.
Testers? – Associates may not secure or dispose of opened testers properly.
Item availability – Exchanges depend on makeup shades/types being in stock.
Return fraud – Requires ID and logs info to prevent abuse of policy.
Store credit only – No receipt means exchanges for gift cards rather than original payment method refund.
Tips for Returning Defective or Expired Makeup
Purchased a mascara that arrived dried out? Foundation gone bad before its expiration date? As a retail seller, I recommend:
Check batch codes – Match production codes to reported defective batches.
Take photos – Document damage, mold, leaks – anything unusual.
Ask about recalls – Walmart should refund recalled makeup with no timeframe limits.
Request a refund – Defective or expired cosmetics should always get money back, not just an exchange.
Contact the brand – If issues reoccur, let the makeup company know too. They may offer coupons or replacements.
Keep your receipt – Having your receipt makes it much easier to get a full refund back for defective items.
Return in person – You‘ll have better luck getting money back by returning directly to customer service.
Be polite but firm – Calmly explain why the item is faulty and unfit for use.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully this detailed guide better explains Walmart‘s policy around returning makeup and other beauty products. While they allow returns and exchanges on most opened cosmetics within 90 days, it‘s good to be aware of restrictions. Feel free to print or bookmark this article for quick reference before your next return.
As an experienced retail seller, my advice is to always keep receipts, return defective items as soon as possible, and treat sales associates respectfully. By following Walmart‘s policies, you can easily get refunds or exchanges on makeup that doesn‘t work for you.
