Sephora & Ulta Beauty Issue Statements Amidst COVID-19

Amidst concerns over the coronavirus (COVID-19), both Sephora and Ulta Beauty have issued statements regarding their sanitation practices and tester products in stores.

As the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) continues to spread, businesses and major industries are being affected globally and that includes the beauty industry.

I’m a beauty junkie and love walking up to a beauty counter to try out makeup, but with the coronavirus looming I say be cautious. Consumers should take it upon themselves to avoid using testers, avoid them altogether to prevent any contamination at this time. Consumers should be aware that using in-store makeup testers at any time can potentially spread infections if they have been contaminated at any point not just during the coronavirus pandemic.

In light of the seriousness of the virus, both Sephora and Ulta Beauty have issued statements that illustrate what precautions they are taking to assure customer safety.

As of right now, both beauty stores are elevating their sanitation practices but apparently still have their product testers on display.

Sephora issued their statement outlining what precautions they are taking and even going as far as waiving its standard shipping fees through March 30^th for those who prefer to stay out of their brick and mortar stores and instead shop online.

Ulta Beauty posted a sign on their doors stating that for any guest wanting to use a tester or trial a product, they should ask an associate for assistance.

The following message was sent out to Ulta Beauty guests about the Coronavirus, from CEO Mary Dillon

"With our guests, associates, and their families at the center of everything we do as a company, I’d like to take the time to address concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the steps we’re taking in our stores, our corporate office, and our distribution centers to continue our focus on keeping people safe and healthy.

We’re closely monitoring the situation and following guidance from public health officials and government agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, so we can make ongoing assessments and stay in constant communication with our associates to provide information and guidance as developments unfold.

The cleanliness of our stores is always a top priority for us, and now more than ever. In addition to our regular cleaning procedures, increased sanitization measures are being added to all locations with extra attention to product testers and high traffic areas. For any guest wanting to use a tester or trial a product, please ask an associate to assist you. In addition, GLAMlab, our virtual try-on experience in the Ulta Beauty App, is a great way to virtually explore, try on, and test colors and shades.

With our hair, skin, brow, and makeup services, hygiene is always a focus and we’re taking additional steps here as well. For guests who have services booked, we’re happy to reschedule your appointment for a later date. We encourage you to reschedule if you’re not feeling well. Also note that some services may be temporarily unavailable in certain areas; please check with your local store for more information.

Associate care is always at the core of our commitment. For all store, corporate, and distribution center associates, we continue to be flexible, continue to focus on prevention, and continue to encourage them to stay at home if they are not feeling well. Additionally, U.S. travel has been limited, and international travel restricted.

We understand this situation is top of mind for all of us right now. As circumstances continue to change, our goal is, and will continue to be, to provide a safe and welcoming destination for all guests and associates across our communities."

As a consumer just make sure to use your common sense and maybe shopping online is the best scenario for now - especially with free shipping being made available by Sephora.