free samples are a scam!

[Anonymous]

I was told to pick 3 free samples with my order and the samples all say shipped on my order record buy I received my package today and no samples. when I contacted customer support I was told that samples are not a guarantee and If i want the product I should buy it. Well I don't want to buy something before knowing if I like it hints why I selected the samples I did. also if they are not guaranteed that should be made known when selecting them. what a scam!!

[DebKaye]

I've had 2 orders recently where I was supposed to get 3 samples on each order, and the samples did not come. No substitutions either. Bummer! I'd even be okay if they were a surprise, but if I'm esp waiting on something specific, and then get nothing? Serious let-down.

[Anonymous]

I don’t think that they’re a scam. But even if the samples that you requested are no longer in stock, they should substitute them. We do pay enough for the cosmetics.  I mean $30 for a highlighter the size of my pinky???  But if you want something in particular, you should go to the store and ask.  They’re always very nice about getting me whatever I want to try.  

[GG84]

It's literally in the fine print. It says it right on your invoice. Did you only make a purchase to get free samples? That seems odd to me. I see no scamming.

[jupiterdream]

I think you are probably correct that it legally a scam in that there is fine print indicating the samples aren't guaranteed. However, I do understand the frustration. People have choices regarding where they purchase most of the beauty products available at Sephora (excluding Sephora brand and collection sets) and the offering of product samples is a widely utilized method to attract customer business. While probably not illegal, it's certainly a deceptive tactic to entice customers by suggesting that a benefit of doing business with Sephora is the ability to choose high-end samples they want when I reality this routinely (not just occasionally due to unexpected demand) not honored. People don't necessarily make purchase for the free samples, but everyone wants to get the best value for the money they spend, and this is often in the form of purchase perks. Leaning on fine print to absolve themselves of honoring the highlighted add-ons customers believe they will receive is deceptive and just generally a poor customer service.

[darlyndar]

I completely agree with @GG84. If you want to try products, it’s best to go in store and ask for a sample of what you want. I don’t think Sephora is scamming anyone.