Sephora vs. Ulta: Which Beauty Rewards Program Saves You More?
Both beauty giants run free loyalty programs and big seasonal sales. Here is how they compare and how to get the most from each.
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If you buy makeup, skincare or haircare regularly, the loyalty program you choose can be worth real money over a year.
Sephora Beauty Insider
Beauty Insider is free and has tiers based on how much you spend in a year. Members earn points on purchases and can redeem them for products and rewards. The program's biggest perk is the seasonal Savings Event, where members typically get a percentage off that increases with their tier.
- Best for: shoppers who buy prestige brands and want early access and tiered discounts.
- Watch for: the spring and fall Savings Events.
Ulta Beauty Rewards
Ulta's program is also free. Members earn points on purchases that convert into money off future orders, and higher tiers earn points faster. Ulta stocks drugstore and prestige brands side by side, plus salon services in many stores.
- Best for: shoppers who mix affordable and premium brands.
- Watch for: Ulta's "21 Days of Beauty" event, with daily deals on individual products.
Which saves you more?
- If you spend a lot on prestige brands, Sephora's tiered Savings Event discounts can add up.
- If you buy everyday essentials and drugstore brands, Ulta's points-to-dollars rewards and wider price range often win.
- If you can, join both. They are free, and you can buy each product wherever the current promotion is better.
Tip: birthday gifts, sample offers and free shipping thresholds change over time. Check the current terms in each program before you plan a big order.
Find current offers
See the latest deals on our Sephora and Ulta Beauty pages.
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