$200 AT SEPHORA VS. $200 AT ULTA | Which Is Better?

[@debsmowers5859]

I am 65 and have been ignored at both Ulta and Sephora every time I have been to their stores. I find the younger generation is rude to my age group. Thank goodness for online ordering and Jen showing us her finds.

[@JenPhelps]

I get ignored too!

[@Impassion]

@@debsmowers5859 I’m so sorry to hear that. I hope to be treated nicely when I’m older, so I treat older people nicely. They deserve it. Everyone who is young today will be old someday, if they’re lucky enough to make it. They will learn how it felt to be you. Time waits for no one.

[@midlifemom5829]

I agree. I have found a "mini" Sephora store near me that actually has more "mature" employees and that is the only location I will shop at. I have also started shopping at Bleu Mercury. They have more high end products but the employees are very nice and friendly.

[@rgrdesigns]

My local Ulta is always friendly & I'm in my mid sixties. I don't have a local Sephora to compare.

[@stephaniekahn8008]

@@midlifemom5829 I have found an area in Macy's for Bleu Mercury.

[@mandyratliff6285]

I prefer Ulta myself. The associates are friendly and helpful. I've been to Sephora a handful of times and every time I've been ignored or talked to in a condescending way. I don't typically pay to be treated like dirt 😂. I think it's because I'm older, in my 50s, and wear less/more natural makeup. They all seemed to only be interested in helping younger customers with a lot more makeup on. That's a shame because I have a pretty decent budget to spend. That's their loss I guess. Even for online purchases. Ulta gets my business. I just wish Ulta packaged up their products better when shipping.

[@k.popper2620]

100% agree on everything in this comment. I'm 58 and I most certainly not going to take disrespect from somebody who is supposed to be helping me.

[@paulachristie7807]

I agree. I’m 73. I’m always treated well in the Ulta stores near me (I did see some people complaining about poor service from their Ulta stores). I find Sephora never seems to be a pleasant shopping experience.

[@strawberrybonbonxo]

Ha. I work at Sephora, I'm 56, and you would be the customer I would be giving my time to. I love when women near my own age come in. Besides the obvious, that I can sell to them, it's fun to work with my peers! I think the younger girls shy away from women our age because they don't know what we want and it's a little intimidating to them. I'm not even the oldest BA at my store. I would say wherever you shop, try to find someone closer to your age. It's just a better experience for you.

[@AnnieWiz1978]

I've never had an employee offer to even help me at ulta I find at sephora they ask me but sometimes I go to them and they are super nice and helpful if you ask maybe they think you know what you want. But ulta they are nice but always run away right away after I ask for help a couple sephora employees have helped n stay by my side for an hour and a half❤😊

[@strawberrybonbonxo]

​@@AnnieWiz1978 lol I get rejected all the time walking the floor offering to help clients. We refer to it as "walking these Sephora streets." But eventually someone wants help. Then it's nonstop, everybody wanting something.

[@jessicawhite3893]

I make a decent living as a trucker and I prefer ulta always! Sephora I don't feel I get a lot of bang for my bucks. You look stunning as always Jen❤

[@dawnbonome9056]

Yes… do the GET READY WITH ME with the Naked Palette and the Hourglass blush.

[@melissacatlin706]

I prefer Ulta. They have a much better points system and discounts. Sephora employees are also not as helpful and often rude.

[@curlieeloks3032]

Facts !!

[@susanweiner9474]

I shop at both stores for different things, but I do feel I’m often ignored at Sephora because I am older. My friends feel that way too - it’s too bad since we have money to spend.

[@JenPhelps]

The same thing happens to me! The ladies at Ulta are much more friendly and some have even recognized me and said hello. At Sephora no one asks if I need help and it feels snobby in there. I usually do same day delivery or I shop at the Sephora in Kohl's...the ladies who work there are older and super helpful where I live!

[@selinacorrea2656]

I agree 45 here and I feel the same about the attention thing. I feel awkward sometimes going to Sephora. I prefer to shop on their website Sephora , but Ulta friendlier when I do shop in person.

[@Impassion]

Honestly, I think I prefer Ulta. I make a good living and have disposable income, but Sephora still adds up. I do really enjoy a lot of drugstore things anyway. I think if I had all the money in the world to burn, I'd still probably be split evenly between Ulta and Sephora.

[@judyhechinger-5946]

Please do a GRWM with the products you didn’t try on. You are the best!!!

[@norunnladstein4219]

Chef’s kiss for the video! 😘 Fun to watch! 🤩 Pls make a video using the NAKED palette and the Bougie palette (& the other things you purchased 😍) Thanks for sharing ❤

[@jillmorrison9883]

The way my heart stopped at the Hourglass blush swatch. I NEED

[@lindasadler6338]

Yes! Show the Naked palette with the Hourglass blush!

[@aimeechaves9041]

You look like a modern, summery Belle! 👸🏻 ❤ It’s been so nice to be part of your community and to see it grow. Well deserved 🎉❤

[@SunandSweettea]

Your makeup was beautiful! I wasn’t excited about the color of the blush until you put it on, and wow! Makes me want to run out and get it. Great video

[@melindacochran5193]

Hi Jen..what an absolute awesome video! I love your GRWM vids because of your product knowledge and your ability to articulate. It is a true pleasure watching you and would love for you to do another using all the other products that you had left from your haul. Thank you so much for your attention to detail and I want you to know how much I appreciate you! ❤

[@JenPhelps]

Aww thank you so much! 🥰❤️

[@CandidLy1]

Jen also is much more generous at doing swatches than a lot of other content creators, we want to see what it looks like and Jen does it all the time! ❤🎉

[@LenaSheppard]

What a fun idea! And what a great selection of products. Oh I bet it just felt so good getting to buy all of those after your no buy. I just know that when I'm able to start buying fun things again, I'm going to be all giddy & teary-eyed. Thanks for doing this. The mufe palettes always give me rubicks cube vibes. I appreciate you so, so much !

[@madeinkorea79]

Haha! Girl, it seems like your trying to catch up on ur beauty shopping for July lol! That's cool cause I would be doing the same thing! Anyway, enjoyed your choices and hope you enjoy them!

[@cristinakastner5102]

We need a try on from the make up for ever palette!

[@michellebarak3873]

I think the IGK spray looks beautiful in your hair the longer the video went on the better it looked. Also the Ilia bronzer and Fenty blushes wow! Great haul from both stores!

[@lisapetitpas9476]

All the colors look great on you and I definitely think the new way you do your bronzer and blush are so becoming ❤

[@MrsMelissaM]

You do the BEST VIDEOS GIRL! ❤❤❤

[@JenPhelps]

Aww thank you Melissa! So do you! 🥰❤️

[@janej6253]

Oh that eyeshadow palette Wherever Walnut is gorgeous! Thanks for sharing your lovely haul with us. 💙🩷💚

[@michellespringer3769]

Love this type of video! You are so genuine and therefore are one of my favorite beauty vloggers! Thank you! I can't wait to try the body oil!

[@heirloomacres7445]

I'd love to see a half face sephora brand, half face ulta brand comparing performance and price.

[@loriedibattista1239]

Great video Jen. I’d love to see a GRWM using the forever walnut palette. That lip liner is my favorite.

[@paomart]

You look stunning with warm tones! I know you say you have a cool undertone, but I always love how warm tones look on you! I think they really suit you! ❤

[@vickiebruton3138]

Hey Jen, You have just influenced me to buy the Lake & Sky 11 11 fragrance. It's right up my alley. I love your videos and really appreciate your tutorials and all the advice given because I trust you. 😘💙

[@jmarie1959]

Great video! Hoping that you got the new Moira palette in PR. Looks beautiful and cool-toned. 🙂

[@JenPhelps]

I did! I'll be reviewing soon!

[@sandybowers5085]

I always buy my makeup online. I love that Sephora packs their products so well. I’ve never received any broken products. I’ve also never received broken products from Ulta, but by the way they pack them I consider it to be a bona fide miracle 😂

[@JenPhelps]

Wow that is a miracle! 🤣

[@candoall]

I've received broken products from both Sephora and Ulta. But Ulta was much better about replacing or refunding than Sephora.

[@sandybowers5085]

@@JenPhelps 💯🤯😂🤣😂

[@sandybowers5085]

@@candoall thanks so much for sharing that! I have never had to return anything, but it’s good to know! ❤️

[@SightWordMovies]

Lemme start with Ulta’s points, coupons, sales are better and I have had no problems with in-store staff. When I order online I know that at least one item will be wrong/omitted/broken/used. I just got home from returning an eyeshadow crayon that arrived broken and a lipgloss set that was half used up with “tester” stickers on it. I don’t buy nearly as much makeup anymore, but when I do it’s almost always Sephora. Fun idea for a video!

[@AmberKishbaugh-uo6ki]

Oh I really want that MUFE palette now. The swatches were beautiful. I loved this video as I shop at both places a ton (online mainly) and it’s nice to see how they compare. And that Fenty blush looks so good too !

[@graygangmom]

I love your videos - always helpful , practical, and fun to watch. I hate clickbait videos and you never do that.

[@mrtingle13]

That eye look is so flattering on you Jen!!

[@idalarsson4729]

Thanks for a great video! Both the bronzer and the blushes looks to have a fantastic formula! I also like the look you did with the Smashbox palette. Often your videos make me want to move to the US, the brand selection is so much better than here in Sweden! 💕

[@Alice-fr1ef]

Good buy Jen. I noticed how smooth and the shine on your hair you sprayed the product on. I think you got great buys at both stores and I love the blushes and palettes. I like the lip liner also. I love show and tell videos. The scrub from Ulta is one I would really like to try. Thank you Jen for a wonderful video with great products.🥰❤💗💕🧡🌹🥀🌺💐

[@BlingyBea]

👏👏👋Yeah first here. Just started and I need that sugar scrub, love their scrubs, ok added to my cart, yes a body butter. Just checked Ulta website and they have the shower gel and body butter, added to my cart.

[@JenPhelps]

Yes!! I was pretty sure I saw the body butter. Now that I know I love the scent, I'm going back for it!

[@staciabasom9808]

I wanna try all of them! And thank you for identifying my issue with crepe like skin and shadows! I would love more ideas on eye looks to try and avoid! Also, maybe do another video with a smaller budget, for us gals that can't afford the higher ones, like this gal! Thank you for all your inspiration, and so very informative videos. Especially for us fair skinned ones!

[@Amyntj]

I’m glad to see new eye shadow palettes are starting to show up again. I was getting bored. I would love to see the naked palette with that blush.

[@maitanealonsocarcelen1221]

Those fenty blushes are so stunning 😍

[@JenPhelps]

Yes they are!! 😍 I ordered the purple one!

[@christinamoller4342]

First of all, thank you for taking a big one for the team ($400....phew 😮‍💨 ). I definitely prefer Ulta - the points and coupons just make it a better place to shop. I'm a bit of a stinker - I usually add applicable items to my cart to use the coupon and get free shipping and place multiple orders to use and abuse it. That Tree Hut product is so rich looking and I appreciate that it's filled to the brim.

[@JenPhelps]

Yes!! It has such a rich feel to it and they give you a generous amount especially for the price. Love it!

[@katiebrunner4376]

I think warm tones look amazing on you Jen

[@jessabeauty917]

Warm tones in her hair!

[@AndreeaC.]

I have seen lately peaches and warm tones really look healthy on her. And this soft yellow top looks good on her .

[@EvilWolfGhost]

Excuse me for being off-topic, but your brows look absolutely amazing!!

[@onewhisper22005]

Okay…I NEED to try that Fenty Blush now! You’re description of it sounds perfect for me! I usually prefer cream products but I like them to set down on their own and usually if I use powders they’re baked. But this sounds PERFECT! And they have the Drama Class shade in fhaf formula! And the Bakin Cakes shade is described as a rosy nude and it looks like it on you, so I’ll have to try that one too! 😍😍😍

[@laura10777]

I loved this! Yes, I’d love to see a GRWM with the new Naked palette!

[@Gaptoothedredheadeds]

Oooo!!The Smashbox palette looks like a paired down more everyday version of Naked Honey (my fav)!!

[@Jennifer-wg3tn]

Thank you thank you thank you for reminding everyone about MAC Spice! I think you and I are around the same age/generation, and that color was so iconic when I was around 14. Also I really think I may start also using that technique of Rosemarie's (of RMS) from the video you did about some of her products and techniques. Also now I'm dying to try the new Fenty blushes. Great video!

[@normaorlando3538]

Oh my Jen I may have to break my no buy palettes for many months and try that one you have on! Gorgeous!!!! I am also liking the older style foiled, metallic shadows or whatever they call them now without glitter or sparkles. Great video as always and very professional and informative. Thanks a bunch💖

[@lyn930]

Loved everything you put on your cheeks from Sephora. The eye palette from Ulta is so pretty on the eyes. I've always had good experiences in Sephora, and I like shopping there. Thanks, Jen. Blessings!

[@mountain_mermaid5]

That smashbox purple toned palette is SCREAMING my name😍😍

[@jenniferlancaster990]

I’m still learning about makeup and skin care so I’m more of a newbie. But I will always, always, ALWAYS walk into an Ulta over Sephora. I feel comfortable and welcome in Ulta. I haven’t felt that way in Sephora. Plus I like how Ulta makes it easier to shop for products that are cruelty free.

[@katherinekelly9689]

Hi Jen, I very much enjoyed watching this video, I haven’t tried any of these products,however those Fenty blushes look stunning on you and have me curious to try them out. Love Katherine xoxo

[@carolineclaudiaplante]

Much love to you and your subscribers! Have a wonderful evening!

[@nallya9018]

The Smashbox palette looks great on you! It’s subtle.

[@lizam3008]

You cracked me up with the "do people still say that" hahaha I always say to my kids "is that still cool, because, I'm cool yanno"

[@JenPhelps]

Haha totally! My son rolls his eyes at me a lot these days. 😂🤣

[@nickimontie]

Lately I've been finding gems at TJ Maxx and Marshall's. They have Mac, Urban decay, Tree Hut and Le Monde Gourmand. There's even more online. But the thing they have is K Beauty it's where I'm getting my toners, 3ssences and serums. It would be interesting to see what you can find!

[@JenPhelps]

My TJ's and Marshalls usually have nothing and it's always picked over but I haven't checked in a while so maybe I'll head over there soon. 🥰❤️

[@av42400]

Great picks. Stunning.

[@dlillywhite]

That eye look is amazing on you! I may have to get the palette

[@MrsEsStories]

Now you should do $200 in new products at the drugstore!

[@MaryLynKroner]

The eye look is 🔥🔥🔥 love it!

[@apocalypse92]

Its very subtle but yes it does add some shine to your hair, a very nice subtle shine

[@annettehankins3268]

Please do a GRWM using the Naked palette. Great video!!

[@janerooks5941]

Love your videos and reviews and your detailed descriptions along with the swatches you show ❤ I totally wish I had the funds to go and purchase everything you showed. I am treated good at both stores- I try to make a connection with the ladies who work there - by observing them and asking a question or two- this usually leads me to have a better shopping experience. I also remember to thank them for their help and advice and their hard work. Thank you for sharing all of your great “finds”😊

[@anncollard1742]

My sister swears the "relove" pore vanisher primer smooths pores better than any of them and so far I agree. AND it's under $5. Try it. Walmart baby😊

[@cindyb9830]

This was such a great video, I loved the comparison. I did not see the "spoil alert" until I scrolled down!😅💚

[@maryarmstrong2231]

I prefer micro glittery topper wet looking shades shades to very metallic options as they are far more forgiving to my eyelids! Thank you for always pointing it out!❤ also…I wish brands would leave out algae from their ingredients! I breaks me out like crazy! Thank you for a lovely and informative video!

[@runijones2625]

The look turned out so pretty! And I don’t know if you changed your hair color, but it looks really good! I’m so attracted to the smashbox cozy vibes palette but I have so many palettes and I usually skip eyeshadow because I’m too lazy and my darker eyelids ends up looking like I have eyeshadow on already!

[@melissayoung7451]

I was looking at the Smashbox palettes- glad to see you use them & hear your thoughts

[@redannie86]

Hi Jen, that IGK spray worked fabulous on your hair ! ❤ I prefer Sephora. Our Sephora the men and women that work there are so professional and knowledgeable. I will always love Ulta.

[@Pperkins83]

So many great purchases. Lots of lovely eye shadow options!! I’m very intrigued by the tree hut scrub too. Yummy cherry!

[@brittanypennycuff4512]

This past weekend I bought the tree hut cherry scrub, body wash and body butter and wore it with my Tom ford lost cherry and the combo is UNREAL.

[@Jennie-z6z]

Great idea. Thanks Jen!

[@stephaniepugh4963]

I absolutely love the new ILIA bronzer and highlighter. ❤

[@christinahoffman9436]

I'm so happy the Naked palette it back! Please do a get ready with me using the Naked palette!

[@katiebrunner4376]

I really want fiery vibes. So so pretty

[@fionafrazer8820]

I'll only buy from Sephora on line, as they are so often so rude and ageist! I can't tell you how many times I have been ignored while they do their own faces, or rush to help a 20 something person. Ulta on the other hand is so much more friendly, helpful and I just wished they carried all the things I have to get from Sephora. I wonder if Urban Decay will bring back the Naked Basics palette (the first one)? I went through two of them, and it was my favorite. The Fenty blushes look so good - would love to see you try the purple one. Great video - thanks!

[@nickilubra3981]

I prefer Ulta! They have alot of the same high end stuff that Sephora has anyway and they offer drugstore. Their sales are WAY better. They give out good birthday gifts. There are ALWAYS coupons. The point system adds up quickly. They are super generous with their samples. The only reason I go to Sephora is if Ulta doesn’t carry a particular brand but like I said for the most part they do anyway.

[@JenPhelps]

Yes it seems like more and more of those brands that were only at Sephora are moving to Ulta!!

[@marionallen2222]

🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍 great picks! I also love the new Tarte Creaseless Maracuja concealer is definitely a winner for me… very similar to tower 28 hydrating! so glad u got SCENE!

[@lianaD]

Your brows are looking phenomenal.

[@JenPhelps]

Thank you so much! 🥰❤️

[@giselled.4149]

I can’t wait to see what you do with the Bougie vibes palette. I love the colours but they are a little darker than I normally wear so I am curious to see how the look.

[@laceyballiet6627]

Wow! $400 at the stores. Really made up for the no buy July:) some great finds!

[@lisaaaa143]

Your eyebrows look amazing in this video!

[@louisesharpy]

Shopping a ton after a no buy ?!!😂 I love the tree hut scrubs I’m still watching. They do have the cherry whipped butter !! Cream 😊

[@Livelaughlove1968]

I really like your nails in this video! Very pretty color and nicely manicured. 😊

[@Livelaughlove1968]

I also meant to add that I don’t like the trend with the pointy, almond shaped nails. I prefer a blunt, squared off nail which is why I think I noticed yours. Very pretty! 🤩

[@ShirleyCoddington]

Checked in here at 11 min after Jen posted. Yay!

[@JenPhelps]

Hi Shirley!! 🥰👋 Thanks for being here.

[@Grace_Diana]

The eye look is beautiful❤️❤️

[@DecolonialRhetoric]

Love the video idea. Speaking of which, given your video the other day comparing ND and AE nude palettes and now the re-released Naked palette (not to mention Doll Squad 3), maybe you could do a battle of the nude palettes video? Just an idea. I watch all your content regardless! 😂😍

[@jazwhoaskedforthis]

Ooo that cherry scrub caught my attention. Maybe I'm just hungry lol, but I will definitely try to smell it in store. I'm usually Vanilla Everything but there are some times when I want to branch out. My friends get jokingly mad when i don't smell like vanilla lol, but some cozy cologne scents or another nice scent is nice too.

[@zizzie4081]

Talking about travel size, I travel a lot, carry-on only, so lightweight and compact are non-negotiable. I found the PERFECT makeup bag on Amazon, but it’s not a makeup bag, it’s a pencil case! (Easthill big capacity pencil pouch). It is $9, has 3 compartments and the pencil sleeve fits all my brushes. Light and small and fits all my makeup. They also have a pencil case that looks like those telescoping travel brush containers for $9, but I didn’t buy it because I am not sure I will need it. I love using thing for unintended purposes, especially when they are lots cheaper! I’m a doctor, and the moment something has ‘medical’ as an adjective, the price triples. I think the same is true with ‘makeup’. And most makeup cases weigh a ton. Love shopping with you Jen, thanks!

[@JenPhelps]

Okay I need to look that pencil case up! I love finding products like that and using them for different purposes, like you said. I don't know if you remember but I used to display palettes on the shelf behind me and I was using a spice rack that I found on Amazon...it was perfect for it. 🥰❤️

[@zizzie4081]

@@JenPhelps I had forgotten that! The pencil case may be small for someone who wears a lot of makeup, but I de-pot most of my creams and potions, which really lightens the load. Your channel is a delight to watch. Thank you!

[@andreabuzicky1881]

I pick ulta. More of a selection like tree hut. I agree with you all though on the stupid credit card signups. They are great with returns

[@melp8175]

I don’t like ULTA because I have to ship . Every time I’ve ordered,they’ve omitted products , or gave 1-2 out of 6. Sephora is quick , but too spendy for my budget . Le monde gourmand is fabulous ! I will drive to ulta and shop in person , start earning points, and getting more deals. ❤thx Jen ! You’re the best !

[@beth-eileenwalker8579]

I thought that the hair spray conditioner was wonderful on your hair! Took away the frizz and you should try applying more than you did on screen. Love to see the hourglass blush!

[@yensid4294]

I think it's difficult to get shine on Blonde/light brown hair, especially if you want volume or avoid heat styling. Most shine products contain oils or silicones & hair is often flat ironed to get it smoothe & shiny in haircare ads. I have a very light hair oil from Jessicurl that I use on the ends of my hair to break up the crunch of hairspray & gel. But I don't get it near the roots/crown of my hair. I hover diffuse my hair to about 60% dry & let it air dry the rest of the way. I do not have the spoons for heat styling & blow drying anymore & just wear it loose & wavy now. Sometimes it looks a little frizzy after a few days but who cares? I'm not going to shellac it within an inch of its life just to have "shiny" hair lol. As long as it's soft & feels clean, I don't worry too much about smoothe & shiny.

[@mermilani4525]

IGK is an amazing brand. I'm a hairstylist. I love everything.

[@JenPhelps]

My hairstylist introduced me to them also...such a great brand!

[@mermilani4525]

​@@JenPhelpsThat is great. I'm glad she introduced you to the brand. ❤

[@shannonwhite7605]

Ill be getting myself to Ulta... ASAP...if the new Tree Hut scrub is even close to TF Lost Cherry.. i ADORE that fragrance.. and treasure my bottle!🥰❤🍒 Thanks, Jen!👏🏻🤗💄💐👑 Btw... WOW! Ive seen you use many eyeshadows/palettes.. but that Smashbox Cozy Vibes went on SOOOOO SMOOOTHEEE! WOW! WOW! WOW!🤎🫶🏼😍

[@JenPhelps]

It really did!!

[@belindafischer2920]

Yes! Please do a get ready with me with the Naked Palette 🎉❤

[@kathleenanne4568]

You do the best perfume descriptions. 😊 I need a new blush brush. What's good these days?

[@melbee8257]

I got the Ulta Beauty Complexion Crush foundation on your recommendation. It is a beautiful formula, but it makes my skin feel tight. So last week I tried mixing it with the Cover Girl Ageless serum foundation (the one with the beads). It is such an amazing combo! The CG gives my skin the extra moisture and the CC gives a little more coverage. It wears all day very nicely. I set my t zone with 3 different powders on different days and my favorite was the Huda powder. ELF halo glow wore nicely too. Laura Mercier, not as much.

[@mgpef02]

I almost got the naked palette for nostalgia sake but I’d like you to review it first. Your video got me interested in the perfume, scrub, and body oil. Scent is everything.

[@candoall]

I think the IGK gloss spray made a big and positive difference in your hair.

[@Jeannette_741]

1:51 the scrub looks like a smoothie

[@JuliaSchep]

I actually noticed a little extra shine with the shine spray. Particularly in the curl toward the bottom. Hope it ends up working for you! Probably more noticeable in monochrome hair?