This is a sponsored feature. All opinions are 100% from Her Campus.
Between getting face mask recs from your friends and your fave social media stars saying they swear by a certain shade of red lipstick to get the moody look everyone’s obsessing over right now, the truth is that it’s overwhelming knowing which products deserve to be added to your beauty routine. Not to mention there’s always a risk of wasting your time, money, and space in your beauty bag if the products don’t end up working well with your unique skin type.
That’s why Her Campus teamed up with a group of Gen Z beauty enthusiasts to test out the best products from Ulta Beauty Collection — Ulta Beauty’s brand of on-trend products that are super affordable and perfect for achieving the fall looks you’ve been dying to try (like boldly lined lips and dramatic metallic eyeliner!) — and they’re sharing their honest opinions and top picks to help make your next beauty haul way easier, and way more budget-friendly.
From hydrating moisturizers that keep your skin glowy to popular makeup products that help you get moody lips, golden eyes, and other trending looks, learn more about the products our testers love, and why they got the College Beauty Awards stamp of approval.
Ulta Beauty Collection New Heights Mascara ($11)
According to beauty gurus who have been using this product since it launched at Ulta Beauty, this lash-amplifying mascara is a keeper because it doesn’t clump up or flake. They note that it separates and elongates your lashes perfectly, which is just what you need when pulling your look together quickly when you snooze the alarm one too many times!
Ulta Beauty Collection Cheek Squad Cream Face Trio ($16)
You might not always have time to stop back at your dorm to refresh your makeup before going out to dinner with your besties after class. But thanks to this stackable, on-the-go palette with blush, bronzer, and highlighter, Toni says you can “fit it right in your bag for quick and easy touch-ups throughout the day!” She adds, “The creamy-based formula blends seamlessly into my skin!”
WHIM by Ulta Beauty Collection Paradise Dreams Scented Body Mist ($13)
TBH, we’ve all worked up a sweat walking to and from class, so adding a body mist to your bag for a quick refresh is a must! “This body mist is a budget-friendly option that offers a burst of tropical bliss,” Toni says, highlighting that “it’s a subtle scent that reminds me of the beach, and will last throughout the day.”
Ulta Beauty Collection Longwear Metallic Cream Eye Shadow ($10)
Looking for a long-wear eye product? Then you *need* this liquid eyeshadow, which reviewers say wears well and stays on all day. They also say it’s easy to apply, which is perfect for those days when you’re short on time. It comes in four rich, pigmented, metallic colors that are great for game day, a big presentation, or brunch with your besties.
Ulta Beauty Collection Lip Lacquer Liquid Lipstick ($10)
Calling all lip gloss enthusiasts! Askya – a gloss enthusiast herself — says, “This incredibly moisturizing lip product masterfully combines the best of both worlds: the pigmented intensity of a lipstick and the luscious shine of a gloss, leaving my lips feeling soft and comfortable all day long.” It comes in eight gorg shades of pink and red, and is a must-add to your beauty bag.
Ulta Beauty Collection Complexion Crush Foundation ($14)
Those who have already added it to their beauty bags say this second-skin foundation is lightweight, blendable, and has buildable coverage. It helps even your skin tone and hides any imperfections (like the stress zits you may get during finals season)! Reviewers also say it’s great for oily skin, and love how it has a diverse range of shades for a perfect match.
Ulta Beauty Collection Too Cheeky Lip & Cheek Color ($12)
“Whether I’m heading to a meeting or a night out, this multi-purpose product has become my go-to solution,” Askya says. “With one quick swipe, I can enhance both my lips and cheeks with a radiant finish, saving me not only time but space in my makeup bag!” This 2-in-1 product comes in a range of colors and has a buildable, creamy formula.
Ulta Beauty Collection Under Eye Patches ($22)
“These patches have become one of my favorite products to use in my self-care routine!” Imara says, highlighting the fact that they’re hydrating and add extra moisture to her skin. She also likes to use these patches before applying makeup, saying, “It’s helped my look a lot and has made [the space] under my eyes glow more!”
Ulta Beauty Collection Healthy Hydration Gel Moisturizer ($20)
This light and hydrating oil-free moisturizer is a new fave of Imara’s because “the gel’s texture is cooling and rejuvenating,” she says. And, thanks to ultra-hydrating ingredients – including hyaluronic acid and allantoin — this moisturizer provides benefits for healthier, smoother-looking skin.
Ulta Beauty Collection Healthy Hydration Milky Toner ($10)
With ingredients like hyaluronic acid and carrageenan extract, Imara says this creamy, lightweight toner “does a good job at minimizing pores and toning the skin,” and that her skin “feels more alive after each use.”