Ulta's Best-Kept Secret: How to Catch Fragrance Sales Before They Disappear

Ulta Beauty, one of the leading beauty retailers in the U.S., is renowned for its wide range of skincare, makeup, haircare, and, of course, fragrances. But for many shoppers, knowing when to snag a deal on those high-end perfumes can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Fragrance sales at Ulta are indeed rare, but they do happen. The key lies in understanding Ulta's promotional calendar, leveraging their rewards program, and staying alert for unannounced markdowns.

The Occasional Surprise: Ulta's Semi-Annual Sales

While Ulta doesn’t have a regular sale cycle specifically for fragrances, they do have semi-annual sales, usually in the spring and fall, where selected items, including fragrances, are marked down. These sales are often accompanied by "20% off one item" coupons, which can be applied to fragrances, making it the perfect time to indulge in that expensive scent you've been lusting after.

Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty: The Hidden Gem for Fragrance Deals

Another opportunity to score fragrance deals at Ulta is during their famous "21 Days of Beauty" event. Although this event primarily focuses on makeup and skincare, every now and then, a fragrance or two makes the cut. These items are typically offered at a 50% discount, but you have to act fast—each deal is available for just one day.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: The Ultimate Sale Extravaganza

Like most major retailers, Ulta goes all out for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While these sales are more focused on holiday kits and gift sets, fragrances are often bundled into these deals. For instance, you might find a fragrance set that includes a full-size perfume, a travel-size spray, and a body lotion, all for the price of the perfume alone.

Rewards and Coupons: Your Best Friends for Year-Round Savings

Ulta’s rewards program, Ultamate Rewards, is another crucial tool in the savvy shopper’s arsenal. Members earn points on every purchase, which can then be redeemed for discounts on future buys. The higher your tier (Member, Platinum, or Diamond), the faster you accumulate points. Platinum and Diamond members also receive exclusive coupons, some of which can be applied to fragrances.

Additionally, Ulta frequently releases 20% off coupons that can be used on non-prestige brands or, occasionally, on everything, including fragrances. Keep an eye on your email or Ulta’s app notifications for these offers.

Gift with Purchase: A Sweetener for Your Fragrance Haul

Ulta often runs "gift with purchase" promotions, especially during the holidays. These gifts can range from makeup bags filled with deluxe samples to full-size products, adding extra value to your fragrance purchase. While the fragrances themselves might not be discounted, these bonuses can make a full-price buy feel like a steal.

The Savvy Shopper’s Strategy: How to Maximize Fragrance Savings at Ulta

So, what’s the best strategy for nabbing a fragrance deal at Ulta? First, sign up for the Ultamate Rewards program and download the Ulta app. This will keep you informed about upcoming sales, special promotions, and exclusive coupons.

Next, plan your fragrance purchases around Ulta’s semi-annual sales, 21 Days of Beauty, and major shopping events like Black Friday. If a specific fragrance you want isn’t on sale, consider using a 20% off coupon or redeeming your Ultamate Rewards points for a discount.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of patience. If you can hold off on buying until one of these key sales periods, you’re more likely to get a significant discount or a bonus gift with your purchase.

Conclusion Ulta may not have frequent or predictable fragrance sales, but for those in the know, there are still plenty of opportunities to save on your favorite scents. By staying informed and timing your purchases strategically, you can enjoy the thrill of getting a luxury fragrance at a fraction of the cost. Happy shopping!