When it comes to luxury beauty shopping in the United States, Bluemercury has established itself as a premier destination for discerning customers seeking high-quality skincare, cosmetics, and wellness products. Whether you're a beauty enthusiast or just beginning your skincare journey, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shopping at Bluemercury, from their best-selling products to insider tips on saving money.
About Bluemercury: A Luxury Beauty Destination
The Story Behind the Brand
Bluemercury is an American luxury beauty retailer founded in 1999 in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., by the entrepreneurial husband-and-wife duo Marla Malcolm Beck and Barry J. Beck. What started as an innovative response to a working woman's challenge of accessing quality cosmetics has evolved into one of the nation's most respected beauty retail chains.
The founders' original vision was to create an online retailer for luxury cosmetics. However, they quickly discovered that luxury brands were hesitant to sell online, and consumers weren't comfortable purchasing beauty products without testing them first. This insight led them to acquire two struggling independent beauty boutiques, which they rebranded as Bluemercury, transforming them into neighborhood locations offering not just products, but personalized advice, samples, and a complete beauty experience.
In 2015, Bluemercury was acquired by Macy's, Inc. for $210 million, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth while the Becks retained their leadership roles as CEO and COO. Today, the company operates from its headquarters in Long Island City, New York, and continues to expand its presence across the United States.
The Bluemercury Philosophy
Bluemercury was founded with a mission to help people discover their uniqueness, emphasizing hyperpersonalized, high-quality beauty interactions. The brand believes that beauty is inclusive, not exclusive, and promises to deliver unparalleled experiences that celebrate the power of beauty to uplift, empower, and excite everyone.
The store's client-first service model has been a cornerstone of its success, with beauty experts available both in-store and online to provide personalized consultations and recommendations. This approach sets Bluemercury apart from traditional beauty retailers and creates a shopping experience that feels more like visiting a trusted advisor than simply browsing products.
Proprietary Brands
In addition to carrying prestigious beauty brands from around the world, Bluemercury has developed its own proprietary skincare and cosmetics lines:
- M-61 Skincare (launched in 2012): A collection of powerful, results-driven skincare products that focus on effective ingredients and visible results
- Lune+Aster (launched in 2015): A color cosmetics brand offering high-quality makeup products
These in-house brands allow Bluemercury to offer exclusive products that meet their exacting standards for quality and performance.
Featured Products: The Best of Bluemercury
Bluemercury's carefully curated selection includes some of the most coveted beauty brands in the world. Here are the standout products and brands that keep customers coming back:
Premium Skincare Brands
La Mer: Perhaps the most iconic luxury skincare brand, La Mer Crème de La Mer Face Cream is a bestseller with 8,368 reviews. This legendary moisturizer promises to transform skin with its nutrient-rich formulation.
SkinCeuticals: Known for its science-backed approach to skincare, SkinCeuticals is a favorite among dermatologists and beauty enthusiasts alike. The stores carry an assortment of brands including SkinCeuticals, with products like the Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 and C E Ferulic serum being particularly popular.
Augustinus Bader: The Rich Cream from this innovative brand has gained a cult following for its advanced TFC8 technology that supports skin renewal.
U Beauty: The Resurfacing Compound has become a modern skincare staple, offering a minimalist approach to achieving glowing, healthy skin.
M-61 Skincare: Bluemercury's Own Line
M-61 has become a beloved brand in its own right, offering professional-grade skincare at more accessible price points than many luxury competitors. Key products include:
- Powerglow Peel: A powerful at-home peel that delivers spa-quality results
- Hydraboost Collagen+Peptide Water Cream: A lightweight moisturizer perfect for all skin types
- PowerSpot Brightening Patches: Targeted treatment for dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Makeup Must-Haves
Pat McGrath Labs: Known for luxurious, high-pigment formulations that bring runway glamour to everyday beauty routines.
Charlotte Tilbury: While not always mentioned by name, this brand's iconic products are favorites at Bluemercury locations.
Victoria Beckham Beauty: A newer addition to the beauty world, offering sophisticated, wearable makeup with a focus on skin health.
Fragrance Selection
Bluemercury carries prestigious fragrance brands including Diptyque and Parfums De Marly, offering everything from everyday scents to special occasion fragrances. The stores also feature an extensive collection of home fragrances and candles.
Haircare Excellence
Oribe: This luxury haircare line has achieved cult status for its high-performance formulations and beautiful packaging. Products are infused with signature fragrances that make every wash feel like a spa experience.
Other Notable Brands: The selection includes professional-grade products from brands like Kérastase, Moroccanoil, and others that address every hair concern imaginable.
Sales and Promotional Events
Understanding Bluemercury's sales calendar can help you maximize savings on your favorite luxury beauty products. Here are the key shopping events throughout the year:
Spring Beauty Event
The Spring Beauty Event typically offers up to 20% off select skincare, makeup, and fragrance. This is one of the year's biggest sales events, usually taking place in late March or early April. It's an excellent opportunity to stock up on high-end products or try something new at a more accessible price point.
Anniversary Sale
Bluemercury typically hosts an Anniversary sale in September with up to 25% off. This mid-year event celebrates the company's founding and offers substantial discounts across multiple categories.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Customers can expect to save 30% or more by using Bluemercury promo codes during Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales. Rewards members may even earn double points during this period, making it one of the best times to make major purchases.
Summer Essentials Sale
Summer sales feature markdowns on sun care, travel-size products, and lightweight skincare, with clearance events at the end of each month, especially in June.
Ongoing Sale Section
Bluemercury maintains a dedicated 'sale' section on their website, currently featuring discounts up to 50% off. This section is updated regularly and includes products from various categories, making it worth checking frequently for deals on your favorite brands.
Holiday Sales and Gift Sets
During the holiday season (November through December), Bluemercury offers specially curated gift sets that provide better value than purchasing items individually. These sets often feature deluxe samples or full-size products from premium brands at discounted prices.
How to Save Money at Bluemercury
Savvy shoppers know that luxury beauty doesn't have to break the bank. Here are the most effective strategies for saving money at Bluemercury:
Join BlueRewards: The Free Loyalty Program
BlueRewards is Bluemercury's free loyalty program that offers free ground shipping on all orders, early access to new products, member-only offers, and 10% off M-61 skincare.
The program operates on a three-tier system:
Silver Tier (Annual spending: $0-$299):
- Earn $10 Beauty Cards for every $250 spent
- Free standard shipping on all orders
- Birthday gifts
- Quarterly Beauty Cards based on spending
Sapphire Tier (Annual spending: $300-$999):
- All Silver benefits
- Free premium shipping
- Exclusive event invitations
- Enhanced customer service
Platinum Tier (Annual spending: $1,000+):
- All Sapphire benefits
- Annual Platinum gift
- VIP treatment and priority access
- Special promotions
Double Points Promotions
BlueRewards members can earn double points on skincare purchases during special promotion periods, earning $20 per $250 spent on qualifying skincare products instead of the standard $10. Watch for these promotions, which can significantly increase your rewards earnings.
Newsletter Signup Discount
New customers who place their first order at Bluemercury receive 15% off their purchase when they sign up for the email newsletter. This is one of the easiest ways to save on your initial order and stay informed about upcoming sales and exclusive offers.
Free Birthday Gift
BlueRewards members receive a free birthday gift, which is a full-sized product, though a $25 minimum purchase is required to qualify. This perk alone can make membership worthwhile.
Free Samples with Every Order
Every online order includes the opportunity to choose free samples. Before clicking 'Checkout', customers can select up to three free samples on the Bag page. This is an excellent way to try new products before committing to full-size purchases.
Gifts with Purchase
Checking the 'Gifts with purchase' tab before shopping allows customers to qualify for specific beauty items from brands like Phillip Kingsley, Laura Mercier, and Molton Brown. These promotions change regularly, so it's worth checking before each purchase.
Free Shipping Strategies
Orders over $100 qualify for free shipping for non-members, while orders under $100 have a $7 flat shipping rate. For frequent shoppers, joining BlueRewards for free shipping on all orders regardless of cart value is the most economical choice.
Strategic Shopping During Clearance
The "Last Chance" section of the website features products at significant discounts, sometimes up to 50% or more off retail prices. These items are typically being discontinued or cleared out for new inventory, offering excellent value on quality products.
Buy Now, Pay Later Options
Bluemercury partners with several financing services that allow you to split purchases into interest-free installments, making luxury beauty more accessible. This can be particularly useful for larger purchases or holiday shopping.
Finding Coupons, Deals, and Offers
Maximizing your savings at Bluemercury requires knowing where to look for the best deals. Here's your comprehensive guide:
Official Bluemercury Channels
Bluemercury Website: The official Offers & Promotions page is updated regularly with current deals and promo codes. Bookmark this page and check it before making any purchase.
Email Newsletter: Subscribers receive exclusive promo codes, early access to sales, and special member-only offers. The initial 15% off welcome discount is just the beginning.
Mobile App: If available in your region, the Bluemercury mobile app often features app-exclusive deals and push notifications about flash sales.
Third-Party Coupon Sites
Several reputable coupon aggregation websites track Bluemercury promotions:
RetailMeNot: Offers verified coupon codes and deal alerts Honey: Browser extension that automatically applies available coupon codes at checkout CouponCabin: Features tested and verified Bluemercury codes with user ratings Groupon: Occasionally features Bluemercury gift cards at a discount or special promotional codes
These coupon sites regularly update their offerings, with codes typically providing 10-15% off or free shipping promotions.
Social Media Follows
Instagram (@bluemercury): Features product launches, influencer partnerships, and occasional flash sales announced exclusively to followers.
Facebook: Often hosts giveaways and shares promotional codes with engaged community members.
Twitter: Quick updates about limited-time offers and sale announcements.
How to Apply Coupon Codes
The process is straightforward: add items to your cart, proceed to checkout, find the "Gift Card or Discount Code" text box near your order total, enter your code, and click Apply.
Important Tips:
- Codes are case-sensitive; enter them exactly as shown
- Some codes have minimum purchase requirements
- Certain luxury brands may be excluded from promotional codes
- Only one code can typically be used per order
- Codes have expiration dates; use them promptly
Browser Extension Tools
Tools like Honey, Rakuten (formerly Ebates), and Capital One Shopping can automatically search for and apply the best available coupon code at checkout, plus offer cash back on purchases.
Macy's Cross-Promotions
Since Bluemercury is owned by Macy's, occasionally there are special promotions that allow Macy's Star Rewards members to earn points on Bluemercury purchases or vice versa. Check both programs for potential cross-promotional opportunities.
Payment Methods
Bluemercury offers flexibility when it comes to payment options, ensuring a convenient checkout experience for all customers.
Traditional Payment Methods
Credit Cards: Bluemercury accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
PayPal: PayPal is accepted as a payment method, providing an extra layer of buyer protection.
Gift Cards: Bluemercury gift cards can be used both online and in-store for products and spa services. Gift cards are available in denominations starting at $25.
Buy Now, Pay Later Services
Bluemercury has partnered with multiple flexible payment providers:
Klarna: Bluemercury partnered with Klarna to offer flexible payment solutions at checkout, both online and in 183 physical stores nationwide. Shoppers can use Klarna's four equal, interest-free installments. For in-store purchases, download the Klarna app, create a digital one-time card, and add it to Apple or Google wallet for contactless payment.
Sezzle: Sezzle allows customers to split purchases into 4 interest-free payments over 6 weeks. Download the Sezzle app, create a virtual card, and enter it at checkout.
Zip (formerly Quadpay): Another buy-now-pay-later option that splits purchases into four installments over six weeks with no interest if paid on time.
In-Store Payment Policy
Bluemercury stores do not accept payment in the form of cash, unless required by law in that location. This cashless policy was implemented to increase safety for staff and improve operational efficiency.
Security Features
Bluemercury's website uses SSL encryption to protect your payment information during transactions. The site is verified secure, ensuring that your financial data remains confidential.
Customer Reviews: Real Experiences
Understanding what actual customers think about Bluemercury can help you set realistic expectations. Here's an honest look at customer feedback from various platforms:
Positive Experiences
Many customers praise Bluemercury for specific aspects of their shopping experience:
In-Store Service Excellence: One customer noted, "Thumbs up for Hanna at the Ft. Worth store! She was extremely kind, helpful, and very informative. We will definitely be loyal customers from now on".
Product Selection: Customers appreciate that Bluemercury focuses on "a selected few great brands that they know really well," allowing staff to provide expert advice.
Quality Shopping Experience: A satisfied customer shared, "Bluemercury is always a win. Everyone was super helpful without being pushy, and they put me on to Odacité (obsessed). I left with exactly what I needed and a new favorite brand".
Efficient Shipping: Many report positive experiences: "Placed two multi-item orders in the past two weeks, and it was a fantastic experience both times. My orders shipped the next day, and were delivered in two business days".
Professional Staff: Customers frequently mention that "the staff's knowledge and helpfulness enhance the overall experience, making it a go-to destination for quality beauty products".
Common Concerns
It's important to note that some customers have reported challenges:
Online Order Fulfillment: Some reviews mention occasional delays in shipping or order processing, particularly during peak shopping seasons. A few customers report receiving order confirmations that took several days to arrive.
Stock Issues: A recurring theme in negative reviews involves items showing as available online but later being out of stock, sometimes without immediate notification to the customer.
Customer Service Response Times: While many praise the customer service team, others report difficulty reaching representatives during busy periods or slower response times to emails.
Shipping Experiences: A small percentage of customers report issues with lost packages or delivery problems, though this appears to be more related to shipping carriers than Bluemercury directly.
Product Reviews
Individual products sold at Bluemercury generally receive high ratings:
- M-61 Powerglow Peel Extra Strength 20%: 4.4/5 stars from 197 reviews
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic: 4.5/5 stars from 1,850 reviews
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40: 4.8/5 stars from 29 reviews
Overall Ratings Across Platforms
Customer satisfaction varies by platform:
- Bluemercury has an average rating of 3.4 from 2,626 reviews on Yelp, indicating that most customers are generally satisfied
- Trustpilot reviews show a mixed picture, with experiences varying significantly based on whether customers shop online or in-store
Tips from Long-Time Customers
Experienced Bluemercury shoppers recommend:
- Shop in-store when possible for the best personalized service
- Join BlueRewards before your first purchase to start earning immediately
- Be patient during high-volume shopping periods (holidays, major sales)
- Keep email confirmations and order numbers for easy tracking
- Take advantage of free consultations with beauty experts
Return and Exchange Policy
Bluemercury's return policy is designed to be customer-friendly, giving you peace of mind when purchasing luxury beauty products.
Standard Return Window
Bluemercury offers a generous 90-day return policy for items in new or gently used condition. This extended window is particularly valuable for beauty products, as it gives you ample time to test products and ensure they work for your skin or meet your expectations.
What Can Be Returned
Bluemercury accepts returns on products that are in new or gently used condition, and all samples are yours to keep regardless of the return. This policy recognizes that beauty products sometimes need to be tried before you can determine if they're right for you.
Return Methods
In-Store Returns:
- In-store purchases must be returned or exchanged at any Bluemercury store location with a valid receipt
- Bring your receipt and the product to any Bluemercury location
- Exchanges can only be conducted in-store, not by mail
Online Returns:
- Complete the return request form on Bluemercury's website to receive a return label
- Returns are FREE and designed for convenience
- Online orders placed by a Beauty Expert in-store may be returned at any store location or by mail
Refund Processing
Returns within 90 days of purchase may be credited back to the original purchasing card or provided as a gift card, while returns after 90 days will be refunded as a gift card.
Processing Timeline:
- In-store returns are typically processed immediately
- Mail returns are processed within 7-10 business days after the warehouse receives the item
- Refunds appear on your original payment method within 5-7 business days after processing
BlueRewards Member Benefits
BlueRewards members receive free returns on all purchases, eliminating the need to pay for return shipping even on items purchased online.
Important Exclusions and Notes
- Some items may be non-returnable (typically marked on the product page)
- Gift sets and limited edition items may have special return conditions
- Products must be returned in their original packaging when possible
- Exchanges must be for equal or greater value, with the difference paid at time of exchange
Macy's Compatibility
Macy's will accept Bluemercury purchases with proof of purchase within 180 days of purchase for return or exchange, offering an additional return option for customers.
Spa Services
Services like facials, waxing, and other treatments are non-refundable but may be rescheduled according to the store's cancellation policy.
Contact Information
Having easy access to customer support is essential when shopping for luxury beauty products. Here's how to reach Bluemercury:
Customer Service Channels
Phone Support: Call 1-800-355-6000 to reach customer service representatives
Business Hours: The team is available 7 days a week, Monday-Friday 9am-8pm EST and Saturday-Sunday 10am-7pm EST
Email: Send inquiries to team@bluemercury.com for non-urgent matters
Live Chat: Chat online through Bluemercury.com for real-time assistance during business hours
Corporate Contact Information
Mailing Address: Bluemercury, Inc. 28-07 Jackson Avenue Long Island City, New York 11101
Press Inquiries: For media-related questions, email press@bluemercury.com
Store Locations
Use the Store Locator on Bluemercury's website to find a location near you. Each store listing includes specific hours of operation and local phone numbers.
Social Media Contact
- Instagram: @bluemercury
- Facebook: Facebook.com/Bluemercury
- Twitter: @bluemercury
Social media channels are monitored regularly and can be effective for quick questions or concerns.
Response Time Expectations
Based on customer experiences:
- Phone calls are typically answered within 5-10 minutes
- The average call time is 4 minutes
- Email responses usually arrive within 24-48 hours
- Live chat provides immediate connection during business hours
What Customer Service Can Help With
- Order status and tracking
- Product recommendations and information
- Return and exchange processing
- Technical website issues
- BlueRewards account management
- Gift card balance inquiries
- Scheduling in-store appointments
Holiday Closures
The customer service office is closed on Memorial Day, July 4th (Independence Day), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Shopping Questions
Q: Is Bluemercury legitimate? Yes, Bluemercury is a legitimate luxury beauty retailer owned by Macy's, Inc. since 2015. The company has been operating since 1999 and maintains over 180 physical store locations across the United States.
Q: Does Bluemercury offer free shipping? BlueRewards members receive free standard shipping on all orders with no minimum purchase required. Non-members get free shipping on orders over $100, with a $7 flat rate for smaller orders.
Q: Can I use multiple coupon codes on one order? Typically, only one promotional code can be applied per order. However, certain automatic discounts (like BlueRewards benefits) may stack with promotional codes.
Q: Are the products sold at Bluemercury authentic? Yes, Bluemercury is an authorized retailer for all brands they carry, ensuring that all products are authentic and fresh. The company has direct relationships with luxury beauty brands.
Q: Does Bluemercury price match? Bluemercury does not typically offer price matching with other retailers. However, they do adjust prices if an item you purchased goes on sale within a short timeframe after your purchase.
Account and Rewards Questions
Q: Is BlueRewards free to join? Yes, BlueRewards is completely free to join with no annual fees. You can sign up on the website or in any Bluemercury store.
Q: How long do Beauty Cards last? Beauty Cards have limited validity periods once issued, so check your BlueRewards account for specific expiration dates.
Q: Can I use my Beauty Cards on any brands? Most Beauty Cards can be used on any products, but some restrictions may apply to certain luxury brands or during specific promotional periods.
Q: How do I check my Beauty Card balance? Log into your BlueRewards account on the Bluemercury website or ask a store associate to check your balance.
Product and Service Questions
Q: Does Bluemercury offer spa services? Yes, many Bluemercury locations have spas offering facials, waxing, and other beauty treatments. Services vary by location.
Q: Can I get samples before buying? Absolutely! Bluemercury is known for generous sampling. In-store, beauty experts will provide samples of products you're interested in. Online orders include three free samples of your choice.
Q: Does Bluemercury carry men's grooming products? Yes, Bluemercury carries a selection of men's grooming products, including skincare, haircare, and fragrances from brands like Jack Black and others.
Q: Are Bluemercury's own brand products (M-61 and Lune+Aster) good quality? Both M-61 and Lune+Aster have developed strong reputations for quality and effectiveness. M-61, in particular, has become a cult-favorite skincare line with numerous positive reviews.
Shipping and Delivery Questions
Q: How long does shipping take? Standard shipping typically takes 3-7 business days. BlueRewards Sapphire and Platinum members receive expedited shipping options at no additional cost.
Q: Does Bluemercury offer same-day delivery? Yes, Same Day Delivery is available at select Bluemercury locations in Manhattan, New York only, and it's free for orders over $50.
Q: Can I track my order? Yes, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information once your order ships. You can also track orders through your BlueRewards account.
Q: What happens if my package is lost or damaged? Contact customer service immediately. While policies vary based on the shipping carrier, Bluemercury works with customers to resolve delivery issues.
Return and Exchange Questions
Q: Can I return products I've used? Yes, products in "gently used" condition can be returned within 90 days. This allows you to test products and return them if they don't work for you.
Q: Can I exchange a product by mail? No, exchanges must be conducted in-store. However, you can return an item by mail for a refund and then place a new order for the item you want.
Q: Do I need my receipt to return something? While having your receipt makes the process easier, Bluemercury stores can typically look up purchases made with a credit card or through your BlueRewards account.
Q: Can I return a gift? Yes, gifts can be returned with a gift receipt. The refund will be issued as a Bluemercury gift card unless the original purchaser's receipt is provided.
Payment and Pricing Questions
Q: Does Bluemercury offer a student discount? Bluemercury does not offer a specific student discount code, but students can save using regular promotional codes and the newsletter signup discount.
Q: Can I use Afterpay at Bluemercury? While Afterpay specifically may not be available, Bluemercury accepts Klarna, Sezzle, and Zip for buy-now-pay-later purchases.
Q: Are taxes included in the listed prices? No, sales tax is calculated and added at checkout based on your shipping location.
Q: Does Bluemercury offer military discounts? Bluemercury does not currently advertise a specific military discount, but service members should check their email for occasional special promotions.
Your Luxury Beauty Journey Starts Here
Bluemercury has earned its reputation as a premier destination for luxury beauty shopping by combining an expertly curated selection of products with personalized service and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you're shopping online or visiting one of their many boutique locations across the United States, you're investing in more than just beauty products—you're accessing expertise, quality, and a shopping experience designed around your needs.
By understanding how to navigate their sales calendar, maximize BlueRewards benefits, and take advantage of the generous return policy, you can enjoy luxury beauty products while managing your budget effectively. The company's commitment to education through beauty consultations and samples ensures you'll find products that truly work for you, not just products that promise results.
From cult-favorite skincare brands like La Mer and SkinCeuticals to exclusive house brands like M-61, Bluemercury offers something for every skin type, concern, and beauty goal. The addition of flexible payment options through Klarna and other services makes high-quality beauty more accessible than ever.
Remember to sign up for BlueRewards before your first purchase to immediately start earning toward free products, and don't hesitate to reach out to their customer service team with questions—they're there to help you navigate the sometimes overwhelming world of luxury beauty.
Whether you're a longtime beauty enthusiast or just beginning to explore premium skincare and cosmetics, Bluemercury provides the products, expertise, and support to help you discover your most confident, beautiful self.
