Don't Return Cosmetics

Cosmetics are very much like perishables when it comes to purchasing these items: make a smart purchase so that you do not have to go through the embarrassment of returning them should you change your mind.

Customer service and the push to attract customers has led to many stores bending over backwards to give customers what they want - even if it means taking back used items. More and more stores are implementing rather liberal policies when it comes to returning beauty products, which is great for customers who can't make up their minds.

Many department stores and internet sites have policies that allow for returns within 30 days but customers must have a receipt and the items have to be unopened or defective in order for the return to be possible.

Should a customer have a bad reaction to a cosmetic or other beauty product, then customers can usually receive a refund, credit or do an exchange.

These rules are pretty basic among all stores. However, there are some beauty stores who have gone the length to maintain their customer base even if it means taking a loss.

Beauty store, Sephora, which has brick and mortar locations along with online sales, has a very open return policy. The company allows for refunds, exchanges or credits on any merchandise within 60 days of the item's purchase. These returned products can be either opened or unopened. After 60 days have passed, store credit is issued for the product.

Now, common sense would dictate that there are a few things wrong with this policy and with the customers who need to use this policy. First of all, makeup purchases should not be done lightly. Careful consideration should go into a product and its applications before someone decides to plop down several dollars to purchase the item.