Wanting to buy beauty products and deciding where to get them can be hard sometimes: there are always so many places like Target, Walmart, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, ect… all with their differences, as well as their pros and cons. Consisting of their prices, brands, services, and locations around the world
Two beauty corporations; Sephora and Ulta are both large and commonly known beauty retailers, both offering cosmetics, skin care products, fragrances, and hair products. Some products Ulta offers that Sephora does not are body products and nail accessories such as polish or press ons, as well as in-store salon services. The Triton Voice took a look at both retailers and made a number of comparisons. The Triton Voice took a look at both retailers and made a number of comparisons.
If you didn’t know, on your birthday Ulta and Sephora both offer a cute little free birthday gift to members, which differs each month; and a coupon. The coupons are a certain percent off; Sephora gives you a 20% off, and Ulta supplies a 10% discount that you can use anytime during the month of your birthday.
Ulta carries just about everything from drugstore products to prestige and luxurious products, with their prices ranging all around. It is a perfect place to shop for those with lower budgets and who may not want to spend too much money on a product. On top of that they have frequent coupons and offers, like ¨$3.50 off $15¨ or ¨20% off your entire purchase.¨ Not just offers are out there but a rewards point for its members, allowing customers to earn a point for each dollar spent. These points can later be used in future purchases as cash, reducing the total amount of the purchase. 100 points give you $3 off, while 500 points would get you $17.50 off your purchase.
On the other hand, Sephora is known for carrying high-end and luxury products, all marked with higher prices. No drug-store products are to be found here, just prestigious lines and trendy brands. Discounts are less frequent here but its program, ¨Beauty Insider,¨ has its own perks too, like exclusive offers to members, and the ability to trade points for -mini products. At Sephora the point system is the same as every $1 spent is turned into a point. The downside is Sephora doesn’t give as much money off. One hundred points there is $2 off, and 500 points is $10 off.
A major difference between the two stores is that Ulta offers hair services, while Sephora does not. If you are coming into Ulta just to stroll around and see the options but end up wanting your hair done they will take you right away! Hair cuts start from $25 to $75, styling $35-$70 and hair coloring from $75-$130 not including the tip. The store can even wax your eyebrows for the price of $15-$25.
Both of the stores range with their prices, products, and the customer’s experiences. Everybody who goes into one of these two stores has a different experience. Sometimes there may be an employee who isn’t able to help you, may judge you, or are having a bad day. This experience can leave customers going home upset about their experience at Ulta or Sephora.
When it comes to the customers, Ulta attracts a wide range of people who may be buying their first beauty product, looking at gifts for kids who are just getting into makeup, or anyone who likes the combination of drug-store and high-end products mixed into one place. Similarly, Sephora attracts many shoppers but more luxury shoppers who look for exclusive and reliable products. Preferring the quality and craftsmanship over the price, Sephora´s focus is the personalized experience and prestige brands for those who enjoy luxuries.
They also offer some of the same services yet have their differences. Both stores will be glad to do your makeup for you, either by inspiration, styles, or requests. It’s something that no matter which you pick, they can either do a fine job. Their difference in the makeup section is that Sephora will also teach you how to do makeup but in Ulta only some select stores will give you lessons on how to do makeup that suits you.
These services can be scheduled but they also take walk-ins depending on what the store’s schedule looks like. All are charged for the services, any canceling or rescheduling within 24-hours is charged a fee.
One or the other, any of these places will be able to meet the needs of a person depending on what they’re looking for. A little luxury and splurging could even cure a broken heart.
