Ulta Beauty Guide: How to Shop Smart and Find the Best Products
If you’ve ever walked into an Ulta store and felt overwhelmed by the endless aisles, you’re not alone. With thousands of brands, it’s easy to lose track of what’s worth your money. Here’s a quick, practical rundown that helps you spot the real gems, snag the biggest discounts, and walk out feeling confident about your choices.
Know the Store Layout and Where to Find Deals
Ulta is split into three main zones: drugstore staples, professional beauty, and the salon. The drugstore side holds budget‑friendly brands like Maybelline, NYX, and L’Oréal. Professional shelves carry higher‑end labels such as Tatcha, Oribe, and Dermalogica. When you first step in, head straight to the clearance rack near the checkout – you’ll often find full‑size products marked down 50 % or more. Also, keep an eye on the “Buy One Get One” (BOGO) displays; they rotate weekly and can save you a bundle on makeup palettes or hair tools.
Use the Ulta Rewards Program to Boost Savings
The Ulta Ultamate Rewards program is free and works for both in‑store and online purchases. Every $1 you spend earns one point; reaching 500 points unlocks a $5 coupon, and 1,000 points gets you $10 off. Stack that coupon with a sale price, and you’ve cut the cost in half. If you’re a frequent buyer, consider the Ultamate Beauty Club membership – a $30 annual fee that gives you a 5 % discount on all purchases plus exclusive promos. The math adds up fast if you buy skincare or makeup regularly.
When you’re hunting for specific items, use the Ulta app’s barcode scanner. It instantly shows you the price, any ongoing promotions, and reviews from other shoppers. Reading real‑user feedback can prevent a pricey misstep, especially with foundation shades or serum formulas. And if you’re unsure about a shade, most Ulta locations have sample stations where you can test lipsticks and eyeshadows before committing.
Seasonal trends also drive Ulta’s marketing. In spring, look for “Spring Refresh” bundles that combine a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer at a reduced price. Summer often brings sunscreen and bronzer sets, while fall focuses on hydrating treatments and holiday gift sets. Timing your purchase around these themes can net you extra value without hunting for coupons.
Finally, don’t forget the Ulta salon services. Even if you’re not ready for a full haircut, a quick hair treatment or skin consultation can give you personalized product recommendations. The cost of a 30‑minute consult is often offset by the tailored advice you receive – think of it as an investment in avoiding wasteful buying.
Whether you’re a makeup beginner or a seasoned beauty lover, mastering Ulta’s layout, rewards, and seasonal offers lets you stretch every pound. Use these tips next time you walk through the doors, and you’ll leave with the products you love, not the ones that slipped into your cart by accident.
