Help Center - SweetCare United States

Help Center

Welcome to SweetCare’s Help Center - here you’ll find answers to our most frequently asked questions. If you need extra support, our Customer Care team is here for you.

1. General Information

+What is SweetCare?
SweetCare is an international award-winning online store for beauty and dermocosmetics, based in Porto, Portugal. Since 2008, we’ve delivered authentic skincare, makeup, haircare, fragrances, dermocosmetics, and beauty devices from the very best brands to customers worldwide.
+Are your products authentic?
Yes, all products at SweetCare are 100% original and authentic. We source directly from official beauty brands and authorized distributors. Every item is factory-sealed and fully compliant with EU health and safety standards. SweetCare is a licensed and regulated retailer by Infarmed (Portugal’s National Authority of Medicines and Health Products), making us one of the most trusted places to shop for skincare, makeup, fragrances, and dermocosmetics online.
+How do you prevent counterfeits?
We protect our customers by working exclusively with brand partners and official European distributors. All items undergo batch verification and EU regulatory compliance checks, ensuring you always receive safe, original skincare, perfumes, and makeup products.
+Where can I find ingredient lists and product details?
Each product page includes the main ingredient, application instructions, and brand details. Full INCI lists are printed on the packaging, as required by EU regulations.
+Are product photos accurate?
Yes. All photos represent the actual product, but packaging may vary if brands update designs. Colors may appear slightly different due to variations in screen settings. Any update by a brand that is not previously communicated to SweetCare may cause a delay in updating the product image on the website. Although rare, errors may occur in product details, such as price, images, or descriptions. If this happens, SweetCare will correct the information and reserves the right to cancel any orders placed under those conditions.
+What is the shelf life or expiration date of products?
We never sell expired products. Expiration dates or PAO (Period After Opening) symbols are printed on product packaging. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe use.
+Which awards and recognitions has SweetCare received?
SweetCare is regularly recognized for growth and trust in e-commerce, including:
  • FT Europe’s Long-Term Growth Champions 2026
  • FT1000 Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies (Financial Times 2023 & 2024)
  • FT300 Long-Term Growth Champions 2023
  • Deloitte Fast 50 Portugal & Fast 500 EMEA
  • PME Líder 2024
  • Exame 1000 PME 2023
  • These distinctions position SweetCare as one of the most trusted online beauty stores in Europe.

2. Ordering & Payment

+How do I place an order?
Simply add your favorite products to your shopping bag, proceed to checkout, enter your shipping and payment details, and confirm. You’ll receive an instant order confirmation email.
+What payment methods are accepted?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, Google Pay, AliPay, WeChat Pay, Scalapay & Klarna (selected countries), as well as local European options like SEPA Bank Transfer, Multibanco, and MB WAY (Portugal). Available options are displayed at checkout.
+Is payment secure?
Yes. All payments are encrypted and processed via certified, PCI-compliant providers. SweetCare never stores full card details.
+Why do I see a pending authorization on my card?
This is a temporary bank hold to verify funds. If the order fails or is canceled, the hold will be automatically released according to your bank’s policies.
+Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
We process orders quickly, so changes may not be possible once processing starts. If you need to update your delivery address after the order has shipped, the shipping company may apply a fee, which will be the customer’s responsibility. For any changes, please contact Customer Care immediately with your order number.
+Can I purchase and redeem an eGift Card?
Yes, SweetCare digital eGift Cards are available online and can be redeemed at checkout. Please note that only one eGift card can be used per purchase.
+What currencies can I pay in?
All prices are displayed and invoiced in Euros (EUR). For your convenience, you may also view and pay in different currencies depending on your location, with the final amount always shown before checkout. Any additional card fees, taxes, or currency conversion charges are determined by your bank and remain outside SweetCare’s responsibility.

3. Shipping & Delivery

+Do you ship internationally?
Yes. SweetCare offers worldwide delivery of beauty products, perfumes, haircare, and dermocosmetics. We ship across Europe, America, Asia, Oceania, and Africa with fast and tracked courier services. At checkout, you’ll see all available carriers, shipping costs, and estimated delivery times based on your destination.
+What are the delivery times?
  • Portugal & Spain: 1–3 business days
  • EU countries: 2–7 business days
  • Outside the EU: 3–15 business days, depending on customs clearance and carrier
+What are the shipping costs?
Shipping fees depend on destination, carrier, and order weight and volume. The exact cost is displayed before payment at checkout.
+Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. Free shipping is available for orders above a minimum value, depending on your delivery destination or ongoing promotional campaigns. The exact threshold applicable to your order is always displayed in your shopping cart before checkout.
Please note that free shipping conditions may change during special promotions, seasonal campaigns, or due to courier updates. Additionally, orders with unusually high volume or weight are not eligible for free shipping. If free shipping applies, it will always be clearly indicated at checkout.
+Will I pay customs duties or taxes?
Within the EU: VAT is included, no extra charges. Outside the EU: Orders may be subject to customs duties or local taxes, in accordance with the regulations of the destination country. Any such charges are the sole responsibility of the customer.
+How can I track my order?
Once shipped, you’ll receive a tracking link by email. You can also log in to your SweetCare account to see tracking details.
+What if my order is delayed?
Check your tracking link for updates. If the estimated delivery date has passed, contact Customer Care for assistance.
+What happens if my order is lost?
If your order is lost by the carrier, please contact Customer Care with your order number. We will open an investigation with the carrier and, once officially confirmed, arrange either a replacement or a refund.

4. Returns & Refunds

+What is SweetCare’s return policy?
You may return items within 14 days of delivery, as long as they are unopened, unused, and in their original sealed packaging. For hygiene and safety reasons, the following cannot be returned unless defective:
  • Opened or used skincare, makeup, or fragrances
  • Intimate apparel such as underwear, shapewear, or bras
  • Electronic beauty devices that have been opened or used
  • To start a return, simply contact Customer Care with your order number, and our team will guide you through the process.
+How do I request a return or refund?
Contact Customer Care with your order number and reason. We’ll reply with step-by-step instructions.
+Who pays for return shipping?
If you are returning a product due to a change of mind, the return shipping costs will be the customer’s responsibility. However, if the return is due to a defective or incorrect item, SweetCare will cover all return costs.
Please note that SweetCare cannot refund an amount higher than what was originally paid to us. In these cases, any eligible reimbursement of return costs can only be provided through the issuance of a discount voucher.
+How long do refunds take?
Refunds are issued after the returned product has been inspected. They are issued back to the original payment method, although store vouchers may be offered as an alternative. Please note that it may take a few days for the refund to appear in your account, depending on your bank’s processing times.
+Do you refund customs duties or taxes on returns?
Customs duties and taxes are applied by the destination country’s customs authorities directly to the customer. As these are legal charges, they cannot be refunded or covered by SweetCare. In some cases, the same customs duties and taxes may be charged again to SweetCare when processing the return. If this happens, these costs will be deducted from your refund. We recommend checking your country’s customs policies before placing an international order.
+Can I exchange a product?
Contact Customer Care with your order number and reason. We don’t offer direct exchanges. To get the item you wish, please return your original product for a refund and place a new order. Refunds are processed quickly once we receive your returned item.

5. Promotions, Discounts

+Do you run sales and promotions?
Yes. We regularly run seasonal campaigns such as Black Friday, Boxing Day, Lucky Friday, Prime Days, and exclusive brand offers.
+How do I use a promotional code?
Enter the code at checkout in the discount code field. The discount will apply instantly if valid.
+Why didn’t my promotional code apply?
Check expiration date, minimum spend, and excluded brands or categories. If the code is valid and still not working, contact Customer Care. Our team is always happy to help.
+What is your promotional code policy and exclusions?
Only one promotional code can be used per order. Some brands or sets may be excluded from discounts due to supplier restrictions.
+Can I combine promotional codes and loyalty rewards?
No. Rewards and promotional codes generally cannot be combined unless specifically allowed.
+Do you offer free gifts with purchase?
Yes, during specific promotions or campaigns. Availability is limited and while stocks last.
+What should I do if my free gift is missing?
Contact Customer Care with your order number. If it was a mistake, we’ll resolve it.
+Do you offer birthday gifts?
SweetPlus members may receive birthday surprises, depending on tier and campaign availability.

6. Loyalty & Rewards - SweetPlus Program

+What is SweetPlus?
SweetPlus is SweetCare’s exclusive beauty loyalty program, designed to reward you every time you shop. Members earn 5% back in loyalty credit on every eligible purchase, which can be converted into discount vouchers. The program also includes tier-based rewards, birthday gifts, and exclusive offers for loyal customers. With SweetPlus, shopping for your favorite skincare, makeup, fragrances, and beauty devices becomes even more rewarding.
+How do I join?
Create a free SweetCare account, and you’re automatically enrolled in SweetPlus.
+How do I earn with SweetPlus?
You earn 5% back in loyalty credit on every eligible order placed through the store, calculated on the product value only and excluding shipping. This reward applies exclusively to items that are not already discounted or part of a promotion, and your earnings will be credited to your account once your order has shipped.
+How do I redeem my SweetPlus balance?
Issue vouchers in €5 multiples within your SweetPlus Card section.
Simply log in to your account, go to “SweetPlus Card”, choose the amount, and generate the code. You can then copy the code and apply it in your shopping cart at checkout. All issued codes will also be available in the “Discount Codes” section.
+Does my balance expire?
Yes, the current balance is valid for 6 months from the date they are credited. Any unused points will automatically expire after this period.
+Can I combine it with promotional codes or other promotions?
Unless specified, SweetPlus cannot be combined with other promotions.

7. Account & Membership

+How do I create a SweetCare account?
Click “Register” on our site, enter your details, and confirm by email.
You can also log in with your Facebook or Google account.
In this case, your SweetCare account will be registered with the email associated with that service, and your access will always be validated through it.
+Do I need an account to order?
Guest checkout is available, but an account is recommended for order tracking, returns, and rewards.
+I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Click “Forgot Password?” on the login page and follow the instructions sent to your email.
+How do I update my account details?
Log in to your account → My Profile to edit personal data, addresses, and preferences.
+How do I unsubscribe from emails?
Click “Unsubscribe” at the bottom of any SweetCare email or update preferences in your account.
+How do I delete my account and personal data?
Submit a GDPR request and contact Customer Care. We’ll verify and process the deletion.

8. Product Suitability & Advice

+How do I choose products for my skin type?
Use our filters (skin type, concern, price, ingredients) or request help from Customer Care. Our team is always happy to help.
+Can I use your products while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Always consult your doctor. For the complete list of ingredients, please contact our Customer Care team for assistance.
+Where can I find product application instructions?
Each product page includes “How to Use.” Instructions are also printed on packaging or enclosed in leaflets.
+Are your products cruelty-free or vegan?
SweetCare offers many cruelty-free and vegan brands. Use filters to browse according to your needs.
+Do you offer samples or trial sizes?
Yes. Complimentary samples are added when available. Some brands also provide mini or travel sizes you can purchase, within the available stock.

9. Affiliates & Partnerships

+Does SweetCare have an affiliate program?
Yes. Our affiliate program allows influencers, bloggers, and publishers to earn commissions by promoting SweetCare.
+How do I join?
Apply via our affiliate platform or contact [email protected]. Once approved, you’ll receive affiliate links and assets.
+What are the benefits?
  • Competitive commissions
  • > 650 beauty brands
  • International reach
  • Exclusive campaigns
  • Dedicated affiliate support
+Who can join?
Bloggers, influencers, content creators, loyalty sites, and publishers.
+How are commissions tracked and paid?
Through our affiliate platform, with transparent tracking and scheduled payouts.

10. Security, Privacy & Ethics

+Is shopping on SweetCare safe?
Yes. Our site uses HTTPS encryption, fraud protection, and secure payment gateways.
+Do you comply with GDPR?
Yes. Customers can access, modify, or delete their data according to GDPR rights.
+Are my payment details stored?
No. We never store full card details. All payments are processed securely by certified providers. For your convenience, you may choose to save your payment information for future purchases. In this case, the data is securely stored and managed by our certified payment provider, not by SweetCare.
+What is your stance on animal testing and vegan products?
SweetCare offers many cruelty-free and vegan products, clearly labeled when available.
+Do you have sustainability initiatives?
Yes. We are always improving packaging, shipping materials, and logistics to reduce waste.

11. Customer Support

+How can I contact Customer Care?
Through our Help page contact, by emailing [email protected] or Chat at checkout. Include your order number for faster service.
+Which languages do you support?
We offer multilingual assistance. English and Portuguese are always available.
+What are your support hours?
Our Customer Care team is available Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 to 18:00, and usually responds within 24 hours.
+I have a question not listed here. What should I do?
Contact Customer Care — we’ll be happy to help!