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Navigating the Sparkling World of Holiday Shopping at Ulta

As the holiday season approaches, Ulta transforms into a dazzling wonderland of glitzy packaging, enticing displays, and irresistible deals. But, amidst the excitement, it’s essential to separate the genuine value buys from the mere sparkly trinkets.

A Cautionary Tale: Limited Edition Holiday Palettes

Those adorable, limited-edition holiday palettes from prestige brands like Tarte and Too Faced may catch your eye, but beware: they often compromise on quality. In my experience, these palettes tend to have chalky eyeshadows, dull highlighters, and bronzers with minimal payoff. Instead, opt for well-reviewed, permanent collection items from these brands or consider bundled sets of already-loved products.

Bundles of Joy: Worthwhile Deals

If you’re set on purchasing a holiday set from a prestige beauty brand, look for bundled items from their permanent collection. For instance, mascara bundles often provide more product at a better price, featuring the same great quality as regular items. Similarly, skincare sets can be a great way to sample multiple products while saving money.

Beware the Bath Bomb Bust

Ulta’s festive bath bomb sets may look charming, but they often underperform compared to higher-end alternatives like Lush. These sparkly fizzers lack the mesmerizing movement and captivating color of their more expensive counterparts. If you’re looking for bath products that deliver, consider small businesses like DollyMoo or Witchy Baby Soap.

Skincare Sets: A Smart Investment

Ulta’s skincare bundles are often a great value, allowing you to sample multiple products without committing to full sizes. These sets can also help you save money on multiple full-size products. Just be sure to compare prices to ensure you’re getting a genuine deal.

The Giant Beauty Box Conundrum

Each year, Ulta releases a massive box of eyeshadows, blushes, bronzers, and more. While it may seem like a steal, the formulas are often unimpressive, making it a less-than-ideal gift for beauty enthusiasts or newcomers to makeup.

Fragrance Frenzy: A Worthwhile Splurge

Traditionally excluded from coupons, fragrance is now occasionally eligible for 20% off discounts at Ulta. This is the perfect time to purchase a fragrance, as you can stack points for further discounts and often receive a gift with your purchase. Rollerball and purse spray sets are also a great deal during the holidays.

The Sock Saga: A Cautionary Tale

Ulta’s cozy, festive socks may tempt you, but resist the urge! These socks tend to lose their fluff and charm quickly, making them a poor investment. Instead, focus on more practical, long-lasting purchases.

Don’t Fall for Fancy Displays

Remember, just because a product has a fancy display doesn’t mean it’s the best or most popular item. Brands pay for prime real estate in stores, so don’t feel pressured to buy something solely based on its display.

Happy Shopping!

While it’s okay to indulge in sparkly packaging or cute products, it’s essential to separate the genuine deals from the mere trinkets. By being mindful of these tips, you can navigate the sparkling world of holiday shopping at Ulta and find truly worthwhile buys.