Why Are Stores Pushing Us to Buy and Return?

I stopped in at Sephora and Lush this weekend.  I need a new face scrub.  The conversation went something like this:

Me: I'm looking for a very gentle face exfoliator for sensitive skin.  Can I get a sample of this so I can try it and see if it agrees with my skin?

Sales Associate: Did you know that you can buy the product and then return it if you don't like it? 

Me: Yes, but I think that's really wasteful, so I prefer to just try a sample and then come back and buy it if it works for my skin.

Sales Associate: [insert dirty look] I guess I can get you a sample.

Stores are pushing customers to buy products that may not be appropriate for them and then give them the option of returning that product (usually in 30 days).  While that may seem like a great idea to you, resist the urge.  Because how likely are you to remember to return to that store and get a refund?  Next thing you know, you've got a drawer full of crap you don't need or use.  And it's all going bad.

My skin has been so sensitive lately that I've had to be very choosy about skin care or I get red splotches - not at all attractive.  So I have had to take samples of every face product I am considering getting and use it on my face for a couple of days to see if my skin is ok wth it.  Hence the request for samples. 

And the sad part is that they have to toss the products you return.  But the company still has to make money.  So they hike up the prices.  Which means that we all end up paying for this ridiculously bad sales strategy.

I refuse to buy 5 $30+ face scrubs, only to return 4 of them later. 

So give me the samples and stop selling me stuff I don't need.  And save the dirty looks. I'm not easily intimidated.

Have you had someone tell you to buy and then return?