Image: ulta.com

You know how it goes. You just grabbed your favorite skincare stuff, a cute new lip gloss, and some makeup sponges while waiting in line at Ulta. Then, when you get to the counter, the associate asks if you’d like to apply for the Ulta credit card to save 20%. It's a tempting offer, especially since you shop at Ulta regularly. There might be ongoing discounts and exclusive perks for cardholders. But then again, you've heard that store credit cards can have pretty high-interest rates. What to do? Whenever you think about getting a new credit card, start by looking at the card itself. Ask yourself: What benefits will this card give me, and what are the potential downsides? Our guide breaks down the details of the Ulta Beauty Rewards credit cards – yep, there are two of them! – and whether they’re a good fit for you. Let's look at some Ulta credit card saving tips and more.

Some Potential Drawbacks to Think About

Points redemption isn’t straightforward. Unlike some rewards cards where 100 points equals $1, the Ulta points system is a bit complicated. The good news is, the more points you earn, the more they’re worth.

100 points = $3.00
250 points = $8.00
500 points = $17.50
750 points = $30.00
1000 points = $50.00
2000 points = $125.00

You can only redeem rewards at Ulta. The main point of an Ulta card is to save on your future Ulta purchases by using your points to lower the cost. But if makeup isn’t the only thing you buy, maybe a more general cashback card would be more valuable and flexible. Non-Ulta rewards aren’t great. With the Ulta Mastercard, you’ll need to spend $3 outside of Ulta to get 1 point. Other store-branded cards like the Amazon Prime Visa offer two or three points per dollar spent in certain categories.

Where you buy your Ulta stuff matters. You can’t use the Ulta Beauty Rewards Credit Card at Ulta Beauty at Target, on Target.com, or on Ulta Beauty via DoorDash. And while you can use the Mastercard at Target or via DoorDash, you won’t earn Ulta bonus points. The APR is sky-high. If you pay your bill in full each month, you’re fine since you have a grace period without interest. But if you sometimes carry a balance, you could end up paying as much as 32.24% APR, which is higher than most credit cards. Even with strong credit, the lowest APR offered (on the Mastercard version) is 23.24%. Those charges can quickly outweigh the rewards you earn.

Benefits of Ulta Credit Cards

Ulta's got two credit card options, both from Comenity Capital Bank.

1. The Ulta Beauty Rewards Credit Card is a closed-loop card, meaning you can only use it at Ulta stores or online at Ulta's website.
2. The Ulta Beauty Rewards Mastercard Credit Card works like a regular credit card, so you can use it at Ulta and anywhere else Mastercard® is accepted.

Both cards come with no annual fee and double points on Ulta purchases. So, instead of one point per dollar as a regular Ulta Beauty Rewards member, you get 2 points per dollar with these cards. The Mastercard version also gives you one point for every $3 spent on non-Ulta stuff. Since it's a store card, getting approved is usually easier, and you won't need a stellar credit score. You'll start with a lower credit limit than general credit cards, though. You do need to be at least 18 (or 19 in some places) to apply. These cards can help you build credit if you're younger, as long as you pay off your balance on time and don't max out your credit line.

Ulta Credit Card Reward Tips to Use Your Points

Your Ulta Beauty Rewards points add up as you use the card and shop at Ulta. If you’re a regular member, they expire at the end of the quarter one year after you earn them. So, points earned on August 1, 2024, will expire on September 30, 2025. If you hit Platinum or Diamond status, your points never expire. To use your points in-store, just ask the associate to check your account. You need at least 100 points to start redeeming.

You May Also Like: ULTA's Spectacular Gifts For Loyal Rewards Members

When Can I Start Using the Card?

If you’re set on getting an Ulta credit card, here’s how to get started. You can apply at any Ulta store or online at Ulta.com/credit. Once approved, your physical card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can still shop at Ulta before the card shows up. If you apply in-store, you can use the card right away and get a 20% discount. If you apply online, you can use the account at an Ulta store by asking the associate to look up your account, but you’ll need to wait for the card to make non-Ulta purchases.

Alternatives to the Ulta Credit Card

You don't need the Ulta store card to join the Ulta Beauty Rewards program. Anyone can join and earn one point per dollar spent, no matter how you pay. Plus, there's a free birthday gift, which is awesome! If you're looking to get a credit card to help with your makeup expenses, here are some options:

An everyday spending rewards card could be a good idea. Some cash back cards give 3% or more in categories like gas, groceries, and online shopping, which can include Ulta.com. If you mostly shop online, this might work for you.
A flat-rate cash back card that gives 2% back on everything is another option. You can use it for your Ulta hauls and other stuff. You can then redeem the cash back for cash, a statement credit, or even gift cards if the card issuer offers them.
If your Target has an Ulta Beauty at Target, consider the Target CircleTM Card. It gives you 5% off all your purchases at Target, including Ulta items.

Similar Reads You May Enjoy: Ulta Beauty Returns & Shipping Guide: Smooth Process & Tips

Conclusion

While the Ulta Beauty Rewards Credit Card and the Ulta Beauty Rewards Mastercard have good rewards, they're best for people who shop a lot at Ulta. The points expire and the redemption options are limited. For more flexible rewards, look into the cash-back cards mentioned above.

FAQ

What are the benefits of having an Ulta credit card?

With the Ulta credit card, you double your Ulta Beauty Rewards points when you buy stuff. If you shop at Ulta often, it can help you get discounts faster. You also get 20% off your first purchase. With the Mastercard version, if you spend $500 outside of Ulta in the first 90 days, you get an extra 500 bonus points (worth $17.50).

Do you get a discount with the Ulta credit card?

Yes, you get 20% off your first purchase with the Ulta credit card. After that, you earn Ulta Beauty Rewards points with your Ulta purchases and other purchases if you have the Mastercard version. You can use those points to save on future Ulta buys.

How much do you save with the Ulta credit card?

How much you save depends on how much you spend and how well you manage your credit. If you pay off your balance each month and avoid interest charges, the bonus points you earn can help you save on future Ulta purchases.