Have you ever wondered what happens to beauty products after you return them? A viral TikTok video by Ulta employee Bianca Ann sheds light on the shocking truth. According to Bianca, a staggering 45% of customers return products daily, and most of these returns are destined for destruction.
In her video, Bianca shows the process of destroying returned products, including a $30 Madison Reed Root-Touch up compact, a bottle of Redken conditioner, and an unused Kylie Lip Kit. She scrapes out the powder, squeezes out the conditioner, and breaks the lip liner to make them unusable. This might seem extreme, but it’s done to prevent contamination and ensure customer safety.
Ulta’s policy requires employees to destroy opened products to prevent potential health risks. Even sealed products are scrutinized, with only 30% of returns being eligible for resale. The rest are damaged or discarded.
This practice raises questions about waste and consumerism. While companies have a responsibility to prioritize customer safety, individuals can also make a difference by being more mindful of their purchases and returns. Consider offering unwanted products to friends or family members before returning them.
The reality of beauty returns is eye-opening, and it’s essential to acknowledge the environmental and financial implications of our shopping habits. By being more thoughtful consumers, we can reduce waste and promote sustainability in the beauty industry [1].
