How do the number of beauty brands offered at Ulta and Sephora compare?

Determining which beauty giant offers more brands, Ulta or Sephora, isn’t a straightforward answer. While both stores carry a vast array of cosmetics and skincare products, their focus and brand selection differ slightly.

Here’s what we found:

Overall Brand Count:

Ulta: Ulta boasts a wider range of brands overall, carrying both prestige and drugstore options [5, 7]. They offer a whopping 385 eyeshadow palettes compared to Sephora’s 157 and 424 fake eyelash options compared to Sephora’s 66 [5].
Sephora: Sephora focuses more on prestige and luxury brands, offering a curated selection of high-end cosmetics and skincare [1, 7].

Specific Brand Examples:

Ulta: You’ll find brands like Maybelline, L’Oréal, and CoverGirl alongside luxury brands like MAC and Clinique at Ulta [5, 7].
Sephora: Sephora features high-end brands like Dior, Fenty Beauty, and Charlotte Tilbury [1, 7].

Other Considerations:

Price: While both stores offer competitive prices, some drugstore brands might be slightly cheaper at Ulta [8].
Rewards Programs: Both Ulta and Sephora have attractive rewards programs, but they differ slightly in their perks and point systems [1, 2, 9].
Additional Services: Ulta offers a wider range of in-store salon services, including hair, makeup, and skincare treatments, compared to Sephora [3, 10].

Ultimately, the “better” store depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a broader range of brands, including drugstore options, Ulta might be a better fit. If you prefer a curated selection of high-end brands, Sephora might be your go-to.

It’s also worth noting that both stores frequently update their brand offerings, so it’s always a good idea to check their websites or visit in person to see the latest selections.