Everyone knows that buying cosmetics is different from purchasing other products. When buying cosmetics, you need to consider factors such as your skin type, whether the shade is suitable, and if it might cause allergies. Therefore, you really need to use the product to see if it suits you. However, cosmetics are quite special; once opened and used, they can’t easily return to their original state, unlike clothes which can be tried on without damage.
Because of this, it’s essential for retailers to have a reasonable return and exchange policy to protect consumers’ rights. MAC Cosmetics has a relatively fair return and exchange policy. Let’s take a look at MAC Cosmetics’ return and exchange policy, along with some common issues and solutions.
What is MAC Cosmetic Return and Exchange Policy?
General Return Policy:
Eligibility: Returns accepted for products purchased from Maccosmetics.com only.
Condition: Products must be in new or gently used condition.
Return Window: Within 60 days from the date of purchase.
Inspection: All returns are inspected upon receipt.
Special Conditions
Promotional Items: Returns of items that qualified for a free promotional item(s) must include the free item(s).
Final Sale Items: Items marked as final sale or not-returnable cannot be exchanged or returned.
eGift Cards: Cannot be exchanged or returned; subject to CashStar’s return policies.
Shipping Fees: Non-refundable.
Exchanges
How to Exchange: Return the unwanted product(s) for a refund, then place a new order for the desired product(s).
Special Payment Methods: For orders paid with PayPal or Afterpay, contact customer service for assistance with exchanges.
In-Store Returns
Eligibility: Items (excluding MAC Pro Membership purchases) can be returned to any free-standing MAC Store in the U.S. (excluding department stores and airport locations).
Gift Returns: Not accepted in stores; contact customer service for assistance.
Damaged Items
Procedure: Inspect the shipment upon arrival. If items are damaged, retain the box and packing materials and contact customer service immediately.
MAC Cosmetics Return Policy after 30 Days
Whether you can get a refund after 30 days largely depends on where you purchased the product, such as Macy’s, Amazon, Walmart, the official website, or in-store. Different purchase channels have varying return policies. Pay attention to the information on your receipt, or directly contact the store where you made the purchase to inquire about your situation. Sometimes, even if a refund is not possible, you may be able to exchange the product for something else.
Can you Return an Opened Makeup Product?
If the makeup product has only been opened but not used and is within the return period, you can apply for a return and refund. However, if the product has been opened and used, especially if it has been used quite a lot, it does not meet the return conditions, and thus, cannot be returned or refunded.
How Long does MAC Take to Refund?
Refund Process
Form of Refund: Refunds processed to the original form of payment. If the payment was split, the credit is applied to the credit card, debit card, or bank-issued gift card first, then to the MAC Cosmetics eGift Card if necessary.
Processing Time: Returns processed within 3 business days of receipt at the warehouse.
Exceptions: Refunds for returns received after 60 days are not guaranteed and may be issued at Maccosmetics.com’s discretion, possibly as an electronic gift card or refund check.
The time it takes for MAC Cosmetics to process a refund can vary, but typically it takes about 7-10 business days from the time they receive the returned product. Once the return is processed and approved, the refund will be issued to the original form of payment. The exact timing may also depend on your bank or payment provider, so it could take a few additional days for the refund to appear in your account.
MAC Cosmetics Return Empty Containers
MAC Cosmetics announced via email and on their Back to MAC page that starting March 31, 2023, they will discontinue the free product incentive in their recycling program. Previously, customers could return six empty MAC product containers (excluding pencil nubs and aluminum pans) to receive a free eyeshadow or lipstick. After the cutoff date, customers can still recycle their empties, but they will no longer receive a free product in return.
