The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.
When every new “life-changing” beauty product goes viral on TikTok, it can be difficult to know what you need to splurge that last $20 dollars on. I don’t know about you, but I’ve a fair amount of these products only to have them either A) break me out or B) never work how they say and ends up sitting in my drawer. I don’t like to spend money if I don’t need to, so knowing what to and not buy are extremely important.
After working at Ulta for quite some time (and having no impulse control), I have found the products that are actually worth your hard earned cash, and won’t have you giving away yet another failed bronzer to your friend.
Drunk elephant Sunshine drops
As a fair woman myself, I know the struggle of wanting that perfect sunkissed glow but not being able to tan or it being winter with no suitable UV rays. These drops you can mix in with either moisturizer or foundation, and you it will give you a warmth from within that brings out the color in your face. On top of tanning, it also gives the user a glow from within without looking overly oily.
L’oreal voluminous lash paradise mascara
I have tried name brand mascaras and I’ve tried drug store mascaras. Trust me on this – never spend more than $15 on one. As for my personal favorite, this one by L’Oreal give me volume, length, and curl. At the end of the day, I always come back to this product. It comes in many different colors and has waterproof options as well! Honestly guys, please just don’t ever buy mascara from the fancy side of Ulta, it will not be worth it.
BUrts bees ALl aglow lip and cheek stick
Cream products are taking over due to their more skin-like finish as opposed to powder products, and blush is no exception. This blush stick is my all time favorite for giving a healthy, natural warmth with a hint of shine. I never feel the need to wear any sort of highlighter with this, because the glimmering finish brings complete life to my cheeks. All you need to do is put one swipe on both sides, blend it in with your finger, and let the magic begin.
https://www.ulta.com/p/100-natural-all-aglow-lip-cheek-stick-xlsImpprod19031007
It cosmetics pillow lips solid serum gloss
I have been on the hunt for the perfect lightweight colored lip balm for months, but I think I finally found my favorite. This product feels like butter on my lips while giving an effortless color without being too matte or glossy. The shade range is to die for and comes with a pretty hefty amount of product, so you’re for sure getting your moneys worth. (P.S. – it’s long lasting!!!)
https://www.ulta.com/p/pillow-lips-solid-serum-lip-gloss-pimprod2019672?_requestid=5331459
Nyx brow glue laminating gel (clear)
People often forget to set their brows, and even worse, they pay $30 for a product to do it. NYX has stepped up the makeup game in the last few years, with actual good products being produced at a wildly cheap price. If you are struggling to find a gel that truly sets your brows so they won’t move, please get this one. It’s small, cute, cheap. and most importantly, works just as good at the overpriced options.
https://www.ulta.com/p/brow-glue-clear-laminating-gel-pimprod2021268?sku=2572976
Morphe Glowstunner with SPF 30
If you’re anti heavy foundation at the moment and just want a simple amount of color added to your face, this is the product for you. This tinted moisturizer is lightweight and gives an absolutely beautiful “glow from within” finish. Now, this is a pretty sheer product, however, it is very buildable. This way, you can either put on a few drops to give your skin that extra “umph” or you can simply add more and have a great base for the remainder of your makeup. Best of all, this Morphe product is half the price of most raved about tinted moisturizers (and trust me, ten times better in the result).
Colour-pop eyeshadow palettes
If you don’t do eyeshadow often but want one or two to have just in case, Colourpop is the brand for you. Ranging from only 12-25 dollars, Colourpop has every shade and finish you could want in an eyeshadow palette. You can pick a pink themed one if that’s your color, or you could find a nice neutral palette for everyday use. The limit is endless! Also, this brand has hands down the best glitter I have ever used, and that is the real reason these made the list.
https://www.ulta.com/p/by-rose-pressed-powder-palette-pimprod2030229
La-roche posay double repair moisturizer SPF 30
Yes, it’s fall, but sunscreen is a 24/7 kind of ordeal. Facial sunscreen should be used everyday to help with sunspots and overall aging, but it can be hard finding the right one. I personally have very sensitive skin, so every time I use different products on my face, I usually end up with acne the next day. Because of this, I have been wary to try new sunscreens. But, alas, I found my holy grail, and it is this one. Acting as a moisturizer as well, my face is left with no white cast, no oily spots, and no burning either. (Pro tip – use this with your sunshine drops!)
And there you have it! Some of my all time favorite beauty products from Ulta. But remember one thing – you do not have to have these items to be beautiful. Beauty is all about YOU and what YOU use to feel your best, $30 lipstick or not.