Ulta & Sephora haul

Okay, girlies, I finally got around to using my Christmas gift cards, and let me tell you, it was a productive beauty spree at both Ulta and Sephora! I'm so excited to share all the goodies I picked up. You know that feeling when you've been eyeing products for ages, and finally get to treat yourself? That was me! First up, let’s talk skincare because my skin has been needing some extra love. I snagged the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser. If you're looking for something gentle yet effective for normal to dry skin, this is a savior. I love its simple, clean design – that white pump bottle really stands out and makes dispensing super easy. Alongside it, I also picked up the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer, which has been on my list for a while. These two are perfect for soothing and hydrating, especially during the colder months. For makeup removers, I grabbed the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water with Hyaluronic Acid + Aloe. It’s a classic for a reason, and the added hyaluronic acid is a bonus for hydration. And for those who love high-end skincare, I invested in a few Drunk Elephant mini-products – a jelly cleanser, whipped cream, eye balm, and a night serum. I've heard amazing things, so I'm eager to see the results. I also spotted a cute Rare Beauty product, which I'm excited to try out! And for a little luxury, the Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 62 Pistachio & Salted Caramel Perfume Mist from Sol de Janeiro was a must-have – it smells absolutely divine and instantly transports me to a sunny beach. Now, about the great debate: Ulta or Sephora? For me, Ulta's reward program is a huge draw. I'm really trying to hit platinum this year because the free products and points add up so fast! It's such a smart way to get more for your money. Speaking of Ulta, many of you ask if Ulta carries specific brands. Good news for hair care lovers – yes, Ulta does sell Milkshake hair products! Their hair care section is seriously extensive, covering everything from professional salon brands to more niche options. It's one of my favorite places to discover new hair treatments. When it comes to product availability, Ulta and Sephora generally don't sell each other's exclusive brands. So, if you're wondering "does Ulta sell Sephora products" or vice versa, the answer is usually no. They curate their own unique brand selections, which is why I love shopping at both! Each store has its own vibe and selection of brands, whether you're into the clean beauty focus of Sephora or Ulta's broader mix of drugstore to high-end. The shopping experience is always fun, from the bright store layouts to those distinctive Ulta bags you leave with. What about you? Are you more of an Ulta or Sephora girly, and what are your recent beauty finds?