If you’re someone who loves all things beauty—whether that’s skincare, makeup, or haircare—you’ve probably heard of Beauty Store Ulta. With thousands of products, services, and an impressive loyalty program, Ulta promises to cater to everyone, from budget shoppers to luxury beauty enthusiasts. But does it live up to the buzz?
Below is an honest review of what they have to offer, do well, and need to get right.
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The Ulta Beauty Store Story
Just a little background: Ulta Beauty created its first store in 1990 in Bolingbrook, Illinois. The concept was simple but unique at the time: put high-end luxury beauty products in the same store as more affordable drugstore options. Nobody was doing it back then.
Fast-forward to the present day, Ulta operates over 1,200 stores in the United States and maintains a strong online presence. Inclusivity, variety, and the ability to make beauty fun and accessible for every person have built a loyal following for the brand.
From big-name brands and sustainability initiatives to salon services, Ulta has changed indeed. But is this chain store the ultimate beauty haven?
What Can You Find at Beauty Store Ulta?
Ulta is a beauty lover’s heaven, with a mix of makeup, skincare, haircare, and much more. Here’s a closer look at what they have:
Makeup
Whether you are a fan of luxury brands or like to stick to drugstore staples, Ulta has something for everyone. Think Too Faced, Urban Decay, and NARS on one shelf, and Maybelline, CoverGirl, and e.l.f. on the next.
The best part? You can try out high-end and affordable products alike without having to jump from store to store. They even carry exclusive collections and limited-edition collaborations, which beauty junkies just love.
Skincare
Ulta’s skincare section is just as impressive. From high-end picks like Clinique and Dermalogica to affordable faves like The Ordinary and CeraVe, they have a range for all budgets and skin types.
The standout points are their concentration on cruelty-free and sustainable brands like Juice Beauty and Tula, in addition to some skincare tools such as jade rollers and LED masks perfect for at-home pampering sessions.
Haircare
Haircare lovers, rejoice! Ulta carries professional brands like Olaplex and Redken, plus everyday faves like SheaMoisture and OGX.
Their lineup of tools is equally strong, with options from Dyson-hello, Airwrap-and T3 for those who want salon-quality results at home.
Fragrances
They carry a whole lot of perfumes, too. Upscale smells like Chanel and Dior are alongside things like body mists and more affordable options. It’s worth shopping during the holidays because they unveil gift sets at a discount.
Shopping at Ulta: What to Expect
One thing that sets Ulta apart is its in-store experience. Walking into an Ulta store feels like stepping into a playground of beauty. Products are organized into clear sections: makeup, skincare, haircare, and fragrance.
Salon Services
What makes Ulta different, however, is the salon services within its stores. You can get a haircut, coloring, or even a facial while shopping for your favorite products. Here is what they have to offer:
- Hair Services: From simple trims to balayage coloring.
- Skin Treatments: Facials and microdermabrasion performed using professional-grade products.
- Makeup Applications: Perfect for weddings, proms, or date nights.
If you’re a loyalty member, you even earn points on salon services, which is a nice bonus.
What People Love About the Stores
- Testers for almost everything, to sample before buying.
- Staff seems to know their products to assist you in finding what you need.
- It is truly a one-stop shop where one can buy products, get a haircut, and even get a quick makeover.
The Cons
- Stores are somewhat crowded, especially on sale or weekend days.
- Salon services differ with location; every store does not offer the exact same services.
Online Shopping: Is It Worth It?
Ulta’s website and app are pretty seamless. The site is easy to navigate, and there are some fun perks like virtual try-on tools for lipsticks and eyeshadows.
Here’s what makes the online experience stand out:
- You’ll find exclusive online-only deals and product launches.
- The Curbside Pickup option lets you shop online and grab your order without stepping inside.
- Detailed customer reviews are available to make informed decisions on what is worth one’s money.
However, even so, you cannot practically test the products online, which may lead to ill-matched shades or textures sometimes.
What About the Rewards Program?
Ulta’s Ultimate Rewards Program is the reason many shoppers keep coming back for more. You get points on every dollar you spend, and those points are redeemable for discounts on future purchases.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the rewards program works:
- You can use the points to redeem anything in-store and for salon services.
- On your birthday, you get gifts and bonus points.
- Free shipping and exclusive discounts are unlocked on higher tiers: Platinum and Diamond.
For frequent Ulta shoppers, the savings add up.
Discount Codes for Ulta
Beauty Store Ulta has an array of opportunities to get by with discount codes so as not to overspend when filling up your beauty product stocks. These codes are on Ulta’s website, or one can get them from e-newsletters or third-party coupon sites for percentages off, dollar discounts, or gifts with purchase. Whether shopping online or in-store, applying these codes at checkout is a quick way to maximize your savings. Combine them with rewards points or sale events for even bigger discounts!
Prices and Promotions: Does Ulta Offer Good Value?
One of Ulta’s strengths is that it balances luxury and affordability. You can splurge on a $60 foundation or get a $5 mascara-all in the same store.
They also have regular promotions like:
- BOGO Deals: Buy one, get one 50% off on many makeup and skincare brands.
- 21 Days of Beauty: This sale features daily deals with up to 50% off cult-favorite products.
- Coupons: Ulta has the regular $3.50 off $15 purchases that works on most brands.
Ulta’s sales, rewards points, and coupons make the chain one of the most affordable beauty retailers.
Final Verdict: Is Beauty Store Ulta Worth It?
Okay, so is Ulta as amazing as it says it is? Well, yes, for the average beauty enthusiast. The sheer selection, loyalty program, and services make it a top favorite for many.
Sure, there are some speed bumps-always-crowded stores, or sometimes a hold-up in shipping-but for all intents and purposes, Ulta delivers a well-balanced shopping experience on value for money.
If you haven’t shopped Ulta yet, definitely try it out. Whatever the case-beauty newbie or total pro-you’ll surely find that certain something you love in there.
