Yes, These 28 Ulta Beauty Products Are Very Much Worthy Of Their Hype

Buzz Feed

10-02-2025

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Multitasking skincare, quick and efficient haircare, and makeup with gasp-worthy results. Need we say more...
1. First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant decongests pores with a combination of glycolic and lactic acid. It gently exfoliates and renews rough and bumpy skin with pumice buffing beads that don't cause irritation.
Promising review: "I have a serious ingrown hair problem and this product basically saved my life! It lifts up the ingrowns, smooths out the skin, and I can even dare [say] it makes it look a little healthier! Love this product and will forever recommend!" — Mandy
2. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer camouflages dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots for long wear, crease-free coverage that never flakes. Because once this stuff is blended, it sticks to its plan of keeping your makeup looking on point.
Promising review:"Seriously, this is the best concealer ever, and the ONLY makeup product I've never traded out for any other brand! Amazing for covering cystic acne, acne scars, under eye circles, redness, literally does it all and blends seamlessly and never looks cakey. Great for natural makeup, heavy makeup looks, literally DOES IT ALL." — M
3. Peach & Lily's Glass Skin Refining Serum helps you achieve that tasty "glazed donut" glow TikTokers have been raving about. Admirers note that this concoction of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peach extract is lightweight and non-sticky and leaves them with a visibly brighter appearance with reduced redness. Dull, tired-looking skin has met its match.
Peach & Lily
See it in action on TikTok!
Peach & Lily is an Asian woman-owned small business that specializes in Korean skincare products made of natural and toxin-free ingredients.
Promising review:"I bought this about two weeks ago and began seeing results almost immediately! It gives the look of glowy/ glass skin and evens out tone and texture. The consistency is a bit watery, but it absorbs quickly . Easy product to incorporate into your routine." — Spe
4. Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara lifts lashes at such a gasp-worthy price, you won't believe you spent under $13 for the tube. Infused with bamboo extract and fibers, it gives lashes a type of spellbinding hold and volume that won't clump or flake.
Promising review: "I have tried all kinds of mascara and keep coming back to this one. It applies well, lasts all day and you can't beat the price." — Doelle
5. Anua Heartleaf + Vitamin E pore-clearing cleansing oil gently cleanses with its lightweight formula but is tough on gunk and heavy-handed on impurities. Reviewers rave about this sebum-reducing hero, noting its ability to yank blackheads out from cheeks and the nose once it emulsifies with water and is massaged into the skin. The result? A clear, glowing complexion that feels soft and soothed.
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising reviews: "I've been using the Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil for a few weeks, and it's quickly become a favorite. It removes makeup and impurities effortlessly without leaving my skin feeling dry or greasy. The heartleaf extract helps soothe and reduce pore congestion, leaving my skin smoother and softer. It's lightweight, emulsifies well with water, and has a subtle, calming scent. Overall, it's a fantastic cleansing oil that cleanses deeply while improving skin texture and pore appearance." — Katalina
6. Winky Lux Flower Balm cleverly changes color with your skin's pH level. Taking the guesswork out of finding the perfect shade to match your complexion? Done, thanks to this rave-worthy lippy that even has a flower living inside of it 👀.
Promising review:"This flower lip balm is so beautiful and moisturizing! It adds hydration to your lips and makes them feel so smooth! After applying, you will notice your lips turning a pretty shade of pink. The shade depends on your pH balance. It adds a pretty flush of color while moisturizing your lips. Perfect for those no makeup-makeup days or to put on at night before bed. The real chrysanthemum floating in the clear balm is so cool and beautiful to look at!! I LOVE it and would highly recommend this flower lip balm!!" — Athena
7. Mighty Patch hydrocolloid pimple patches work to absorb pus and shrink zits ~head on~. Since adult acne is a thing *sigh*, these are great to prevent picking and, according to one of our editors, are an effective treatment to help avoid scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Ulta
Melanie Aman, an editor on our Shopping team, tried these out and says:" These are hands down the best pimple patches I've ever used. Why? Because they actually work. I've tried some more cutesy patches that were great for Instagram photos but did nothing to shrink my breakouts. And the pimple patches that touted themselves as basically invisible were — but so were any results. While the Hero Cosmetics pimple patches are a little more visible (but really only noticeable if someone was standing really close to my face), the results are clear to see. (And JSYK, they also make an invisible version, but I have not tried it.)
IMO they work best on whiteheads, drawing out the pus and preventing me from picking. Once all the fluids are drained (yum!), I plop a patch on what was once home to a very angry whitehead and replace it twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). In my experience, that has been the best treatment for preventing really noticeable hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, which my skin is really prone to after breakouts."
8. Ilia's The Base Face Milk preps and sets your skin up for success when used with or without makeup, thanks to its super lightweight yet nourishing formula. It's designed to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and draw hydration deep into the skin (with notable star ingredients like hyaluronic acid and prickly pear flower extract) to support the renewal process for a smoother complexion.
See why it's worth the hype in this TikTok!
Ilia's Base Milk has become an essential step in my routine. My skin drinks up the lightweight (but moisturizing) formula, and I can tell the difference in my skin's texture when I forget to apply it prior to my Live Tinted tinted moisturizer or Ilia Complexion Stick. With it, my complexion appears more even in tone, and my products go on smoother and seem to last longer. Cakey-ness and dryness are diminished — plus the glow that's achieved when it's first applied...in a word? Luminous. Sometimes, I'll apply it just under some sunscreen when I want to give my skin a bit of breathing room from makeup, and I love the added hydrating benefits it offers without leaving any greasy or sticky residue. Needless to say, the Base Face Milk has quickly become one product that my skin can't live without.
Promising review:"This is the best, I've [gone] through 2 bottles now and even though I don't like the price I will repurchase. I have tried several that are supposed to be similar, but I can tell you right now, that nothing has came close." — Ebbystarr
9. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray reduces up to 92% of frizz (!!!) so all you have to do to tackle bedhead is give your hair a nice ~spritz~ and simply comb the product through. It also softens your hair between washes and provides UV protection, all with a lightweight and wearable formula.
Promising review:"This is my savior for winter static and flyaways. I have fine, thin hair which I air dry. Followed the suggested uses by spraying a little in my hand and smoothing over the flyaways and voila! Problem solved." — Bex13
10. Benefit Cosmetics Porefessional Super Setter spray secures makeup with a lightweight, waterproof mist that lasts up to 16 hours *with* the added benefit of blurring pores for a satin-soft complexion.
Ulta
Promising review:"I love this setting spray. My friend suggested it and now I've been using it for a few years and it is just so good. It keeps makeup intact for hours while also giving me a hydrated feel. It's very lightweight and sometimes I just spray it on throughout the day to make my makeup look more glowy." — Iris
11. Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl gifts you with ~swoonworthy~ curls in mere minutes (without the damage, thanks the highly effective heat-conducting material: volcanic lava). Once you insert your chosen strands, this ingenious tool automatically wraps it around the heated rod — and by some kind of wizardry, it'll reveal a perfectly set curl.
Ulta
Promising review:"WOWZA! This is an A+ product. I have fine hair and this creates beautiful curls that last. This year I tried the Shark Flex style only to return because the curls didn't last. I've also used L'Ange Le Trident, but this Chi Lava Spin and Curl blows them both out of the water. BUY IT." — LinLo09
12. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint fuses our three main loves: skincare, makeup, and sun protection. We adore products with magical, good-for-skin ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, known for softening and plumping. Not to mention the weightless feel, sheer coverage, and SPF what? 40! Swoon.
This is silicone-free, fragrance-free, oil-free, noncomedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin. Note that on application, the shade may appear lighter but after 30–60 seconds, it'll adjust to its true color. Because it's silicone-free, natural separation may occur. This is normal and it'll be fixed when applied to skin. Plus, the bottle is recyclable! Learn how to here.
Promising review:"GORGEOUS foundation. I have very sensitive and acne-prone skin and this foundation works wonders on my skin! It goes on so smoothly and does not irritate me at all!" — Jessica
13. Stila All Day Liquid Eye Liner produces precise, sharp, and downright majestic cat eyes with its long-wear waterproof formula. Invented with a felt tip that's user-friendly, it's perfect for newbs and pros alike who are looking to enhance their eye shape with a bold or subtle look that'll last.
Ulta
Promising review:"This is my favorite liquid eyeliner (I've tried a couple of drugstore options, as well as the Too Faced eyeliner). This one isn't too wet and glides on perfectly. This product makes it easy to make lines of any size. Very easy to control! The only con is I wish that the product lasted longer." — Sophie
14. Olaplex No. 3 hair perfector holds the title as one of the best-selling hair products for good reason. This is a star at reducing breakage and treating compromised hair. In as little as 10 minutes, texture is improved and straw-like locks are softened.
Ulta
Promising reviews:"The Great Bond Treatment is perfect for color-treated 3c curls! It strengthens, hydrates, and enhances vibrancy without weighing hair down. My curls feel softer, less frizzy, and more defined. While a bit pricey, a little goes a long way. H ighly recommend for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls!" — Jazz
"I have tried many Olaplex products, and this is by far the best one I have used. I have wavy, frizzy hair. I generally dry it with a round brush, then have to use a flat iron to smooth out the frizz before I consider myself presentable. I put this on before shampooing, and left on for 10 minutes. I then used my regular shampoo and conditioner. After drying it with a round brush like usual, it was so smooth and silky! I am so mad I didn't try this sooner." — Kelly
Price: $30
15. E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer grips makeup for all-day wear. Simply sweep the velvety-soft formula (that has 5,000+ positive ratings) over skin pre-foundation to smooth out uneven complexions and minimize the appearance of pores in a flash.
Ulta
Check it out on TikTok!
Promising review:"Of all the primers I have tried, cheap to expensive, this one is my favorite! It really does blur pores and fine lines. I use this on its own sometimes without makeup. Excellent product at the perfect price!" — Mandie
Price: $10
16. Live Tinted Hueguard protects your skin year round sans any annoying, ghostly white cast. It's also great if you don't have the patience (or energy) to apply several products in the a.m., since this mineral SPF 30 sunscreen *plus* primer hybrid moisturizes and preps skin for a no-makeup or full-face-makeup day.
This works for all skin tones to leave your face with a beautiful, dewy glow! P.S. This is formulated with 18% zinc oxide (a mineral ingredient that works as a skin protectant — and hooray! Is an FDA-approved sunscreen component that reflects harmful UVs). And yes, it's clean, vegan, cruelty- and fragrance-free, *and* it's reef safe!
Live Tinted is a South-Asian woman-owned beauty brand founded by beauty blogger and entrepreneur Deepica Mutyala. Her brand is built around diversity and inclusion with phenomenal multitasking products that address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation. Just peep their top-selling color-correcting Huestick.
See why this TikToker is choosing Huegard.
I've been writing about Live Tinted's products for some time and finally decided to snag some of their goodies for myself. Hueguard injects a literal ray of liquid sunshine into my daily regimen because, gold. And it really, truly, leaves zero white cast on my face — plus, there's no pilling, either! It blends seamlessly with my complexion, feels ultra-hydrating, and is the perfect base layer for makeup. (That's me above after a few hours of wear with Hueguard layered under some Kosas concealer and One/Size foundation and I've got to be honest — as someone who has had a few acne scars residing on their cheeks for some time and struggles with makeup application — I haven't seen my complexion look this smooth in a minute! AND my no-makeup-makeup look stayed put for hours!) I can't recommend Huegard enough if you're looking to try something new!
Promising review:"This has now become my favorite daily sunscreen/moisturizer/primer. They really do mean it when they say 'no white cast,' and the product doesn't feel oily/doesn't block my pores. I love the consistency and that you can travel with it — plus, it's a 3-in-1, so it saves me a lot of time. Highly recommend!" — Ulta Customer
17. Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm offers a lightweight curl-enhancing formula that — ta-daaa — gives tresses some oomph without the crunch. Think: frizz control paired with soft definition; best applied to wet, sectioned-off hair that you can wrap and now shape with ease.
Ulta
Promising review:"I hope they never discontinue this!!! I use this generously under my gel on wash days (on very wet hair), and it smooths and softens my coarse, low-porosity hair like a dream! I also love to use this to dry refresh my curls on days 2-4 and it's amazing at smoothing down my frizz! It's so lightweight and I love that it dries down super soft :-)" — K
18. La Roche-Posay Face Wash Cleanser gets you your money's worth since reviewers say its foaming technology goes a LONG way (and just look at the size of it!). Plus, its gentle formula works wonders to remove makeup, excess oil, and impurities all while leaving your precious sensitive skin with its natural layer. This is now a strip-free zone!
instagram.com / Via @larocheposay, Ulta
Promising review: "I've been using this cleanser for about 2 years now, and it's treated me great. It makes my face feel so smooth and it does a good job clearing up my breakouts. I've put several people on to this product and they seem to like it too. I also feel like the price is unbeatable. I've used CeraVe facial washes and all of that and none of them really seemed to do anything for my skin except this one." — BigLian
19. Dyson's Air Wrap Multi-Styler is a splurgeworthy 6-in-1 hair dryer guaranteed to make anyone squeal with joy the very millisecond they realize what's in the mailbox. It comes with a pre- *plus* post-styling dryer, two smoothing brushes, *and* two sizes of curling barrels. Wet hair to smooth, frizz-free locks — and with no damage as far as the eye can see.
Dyson
Promising reviews:"I have my doubts on buying an expensive hairdryer; however, Dyson exceeded my expectations. My hair is thin, abundant, wavy, and frizzy, and it usually took me approximately 2 hours drying it. With this hairdryer, it took me only 30 minutes! It really impressed me. I do need more practice using the barrels but it´s not hard. Now I understand why is so expensive. You are buying quality. My hair is long, so I bought the XL brush and it is amazing. I do recommend it!" — Maria
"Let me start by saying ive owned the Revlon dryer brush, the Dry Bar blow dry brush and wowwww this far exceeded anyone I've ever used [and] cuts time in half. I get beautiful curls with the Air Wrap and no smell of crispy hair. Since I've started using my Dyson Air Wrap, my hair is my holy crown and heads turn and I've gotten compliments on my hair. So worth the money — don't think twice, just spoil yourself you deserve that extra oomph." — Nessy925
20. Kate Somerville +Retinol Firming Eye Cream wakes up your under eyes with a dose of ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of lines around the eye area, plus can hydrate and increase elasticity with hyaluronic acid. Worth the investment, reviewers rave that results are almost immediate and refer to this as a "miracle serum."
Since this contains retinol, it is best to use it at night, but the brand gives the ok on morning use as well, followed by SPF.
Promising review:"Listen, you get what you pay for! Yes, it's expensive, but if you get quick results, then it's worth it! I have used many other high-end brands and this has given me the best results almost immediately. I recognized a difference in less than 7 days. I am 40 and have neglected my under eye for too long. I also love the same product for my face. I will say that if you are sensitive, this may be too strong to use every day. I can only use it 4 days out of 7 in a week or I start to get red bumps from irritation, but I do not get any burning when using it. Thank you, Ulta for carrying Kate Somerville products!" — SNBoo
21. Or CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream reduces the look of dark circles and feeds your delicate under-eye area with three hydrating ceramides, niacinamide, and caffeine. For a more approachable formula, if the resurfacing qualities of retinol aren't for you, this will leave your skin feeling nourished with no signs of pilling either.
Ulta
Promising review:" I've been using this eye cream for a year now and I can say this is the best one i've ever tried. It leaves my skin so soft, bright, and non-greasy. I struggle with oily skin and it doesn't leave me oily at all. The tube looks small but it lasts for a long time! Expensive isn't always better. I found this out by using Cerave and almost all my skincare products are theirs." — Whit
22. E.l.f. Cosmetics Glow Reviver Lip Oil drenches lips in a similar look and feel to costlier alternatives like, say, the Dior Lip Oil — but all for a more attractive price. Cracked lips will now be a thing of the past, thanks to its non-sticky, high-gloss formula that's packed with moisturizing jojoba and avocado oils.
Ulta
Promising review:"This is a really great lip oil! It feels and looks great! It lasts for a long time too! I love the minty scent too! I would definitely recommend!" — Ulta Customer
23.
Biolage Color Last Conditioner helps inject shine and softness into color-treated hair, so your locks never look lackluster — even after a dye job. It extends the life of your new vibrant hue (for up to nine weeks!) and locks in moisture with its low pH level, leaving hair looking like you just stepped out of the salon — not just your shower.
Ulta
Promising review:"Makes my hair soft and shiny. Smells great, too! I love that it protects my color and makes my hair feel so great." — Michele
24. Aquaphor's Healing Stick packs natural skin healers like avocado oil and shea butter into one mess-free applicator that yours truly is actively using to hydrate dry patches and smooth skin creases. But that's not all this wonder balm can do: glide it over skin to prevent chafing and irritation — or toss it in your bag to shield against windburn on the go.
Ulta
To prevent under-eye dryness throughout the day, the Aquaphor Healing Balm is my MVP. I apply this as a fifth step in my routine (after cleansing, toning, applying snail mucin serum, and sunscreen), and I use it as a priming base for either my tinted eye cream (when I'm going for a no-makeup day) or under my concealer. It gives my skin an instant glow and locks in moisture; it appears to blur lines better than if I were to go without it. I have noticed that my makeup doesn't crease as much when I use it, which is obviously a bonus, but I wouldn't say that it completely prevents cakey-ness. I'm always kicking myself if I forget to apply it, as my skin is noticeably less hydrated, so this will continue to be a mainstay in my routine.
Promising reviews:"I'm on my third tube and just ordered another. This is great for lips and dry patches on the face. I also use this as a primer for my concealer. Great product!!" — Lainy
"I rub this on my neck and wrists before applying perfume. Makes my fragrance last ALL DAY and project." — Msandy
25. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair Mask quenches the thirst of dehydrated locks with a leave-in formula that gives a juicy dose of nourishment. Expect split ends to be conditioned and breakage significantly reduced — after only two uses. AKA overprocessed, brittle, color-treated hair is no match for this glorious weekly treatment.
Briogeo
This antioxidant-rich formula contains rosehip oil, B vitamins, and algae extract to restore essential moisture and hydration. It's safe for color-treated, keratin-treated, chemically treated, and relaxed hair. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty free!
Briogeo is a Black woman-founded biz, started by Nancy Twine who has had her hand in making homemade beauty products since she was 5. She has now developed a popular haircare line that specializes in texture-specific products: from repair to volume to curl care, you'll find something here to meet your needs.
Promising reviews: I had been eyeing this mask for a while and finally tried it out. After using it just once, I could immediately feel my hair was so much more hydrated. It also enhanced my natural waves and curls." — Shirin
"I absolutely adore this product! I have coarse, curly hair that can be prone to frizz in the heat, humidity or just on an off day. This deep conditioning mask ALWAYS makes my hair so soft and shiny and the curls CURL. 🤌🏻 It smells great, I love it so much that I use it at least once a week. Lasts a long time and gives real results. I haven't found anything better." — kimberlyh423
26. Olehenriksen's Pout Preserve Hydrating Peptide Lip Treatment drenches lips with a formula of skin-supporting peptides that hydrate and plump. Fans note how this intensely moisturizes and gives lips a fuller, bouncier look and feel.
Ulta
28. L'Oreal Age Perfect Midnight Cream renews cells and repairs the skin's natural barrier while you sleep, with its lightweight, antioxidant-infused moisturizer. Reviewers say they've noticed a visible difference in their skin's texture and fine lines after consistent nightly use.
Ulta
Promising review:"I am on my third jar of this lovely night cream. A jar lasts about 6 weeks with nightly use. It accelerates cell turnover but doesn't beat up my skin's moisture barrier like similar products have in the past. It is weightless but keeps my skin moist and supple through the night. The consistency is pudding-like. The fragrance is pleasant, mild and fades quickly. I'm most pleased that this product doesn't irritate my very sensitive eyes at all. On especially dry days, I dab a tiny bit extra under my eyes and it plumps the area nicely. The price is very reasonable for the quantity and quality of the product. The jar is beautiful and can be repurposed to hold small treasures or be recycled." — Mamaleh
Price: $36.99
Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.