Does Ulta Give Samples in 2024?
Ulta Beauty is one of the largest beauty retailers in the United States, with over 1,300 store locations nationwide catering to makeup lovers everywhere. But one thing makeup enthusiasts really want to know – can you score free beauty samples there? Sampling products before committing to a full size is a great way to avoid buyer‘s remorse and wasted makeup that just doesn‘t work for you.
So what‘s the deal with Ulta‘s sampling program in 2024? Can you still get free samples in-store and online? Here‘s the insider scoop along with tips to sample before you splurge.
The State of Ulta‘s Sampling Program in 2024
According to a recent consumer survey, 68% of women say they will not purchase a beauty product without sampling it first [1]. Getting your hands on samples used to be easy at Ulta both online and in stores. But over the past few years, the sampling situation has changed:
- Ulta‘s main promotional focus is now on their successful rewards program rather than samples.
- Brands themselves are producing fewer sample sizes for retailers including Ulta.
- Sanitary reasons during COVID temporarily halted shared testers and open samples in stores.
So does this mean getting samples at Ulta is impossible? Not exactly. Here is what you need to know about scoring samples from Ulta in 2024:
| Beauty Retailer | Sample Availability |
|---|---|
| Ulta | Limited, very location and brand dependent |
| Sephora | Wide selection of samples available |
| Department Store Counters | Samples frequently available |
| Subscription Sample Boxes | Sample many brands every month |
While you can sometimes get samples at Ulta in 2024, it is very hit or miss compared to Ulta‘s once generous sampling program. Your best strategy is to call ahead and be friendly when asking associates for any available samples. Attending brand events and gifts with purchase also allow you to score sample sizes.
Why Sample Before Buying Beauty Products?
68% of women won‘t buy a beauty product without sampling it first [1]. Here are the main reasons it pays to sample first:
- Avoid buyer‘s remorse – no wasting money on products that don‘t work for you!
- Test for allergies or irritation – some ingredients or formulas just don‘t agree with your skin.
- Find your perfect color match – sampling helps you find your best makeup shade.
- Discover textures and formulas you love without big investment.
- Portable sizes are great for trying new looks on-the-go and when traveling.
This is especially important for splurging on expensive makeup and skincare products. For example, dropping $100+ on a serum, then having it cause breakouts or not absorb well into your skin type is heartbreaking. Sampling luxe beauty items first minimizes the financial risk and disappointment.
Having the chance to try out high-end products in sample sizes is invaluable for beauty lovers!
Tips for Scoring Samples from Ulta
If you want to sample but find limited options at your local Ulta, use these insider tips:
Ask nicely! Associates can likely make you mini samples from testers if you ask. Being gracious goes a long way.
Buy new launches – gifting samples of the latest products helps promote them. Time it right when purchasing.
Follow Ulta accounts and attend events. Samples are usually given out during special events and brand demonstrations.
Don‘t be shy at checkout – ask the cashier if there are any samples currently available up front.
Invest in subscriptions – sample boxes like Ipsy and Birchbox are affordable ways to try new products monthly.
Download brand apps – brands like Clinique, MAC, and Benefit offer free samples by signing up as a new app user.
Read beauty blogs – look for sample codes and offers to redeem direct from brands online.
Ask for rainchecks if a gift with purchase you want is out of stock. You can still get the sample once it‘s back in.
The key is to not be afraid to ask! The worst that happens is the associate says no samples are available right now.
Don‘t Forget About Ulta‘s Return Policy
While Ulta‘s sampling game isn‘t what it used to be, remember its flexible return policy:
"If you’re not completely satisfied with any beauty product purchased at Ulta Beauty or on UltaBeauty.com, return your item in its original packaging for a full refund – even if it’s been used or opened."
So if you can‘t sample a product first, don‘t be afraid to purchase, try it out at home, and return if it doesn‘t work out!
The Bottom Line
Can you get samples at Ulta in 2024? Yes, but availability varies greatly depending on location, brand partnerships, and timing. While you may not get as many samples as Ulta was once known for, you can still find and request them. Stay gracious, persistent, and savvy by following beauty insiders, attending events, and investing in sample subscriptions. Happy sampling!
