It looks like the perfect gift — sleek, simple, and ideal for makeup lovers. But behind that Ulta $25 gift card lies a list of frustrating surprises no one warns you about.
Many customers walk into Ulta excited, only to walk out confused, disappointed, or even cheated.
If you’re thinking of buying or gifting an Ulta card, read this before it costs you your time, money, or trust.
1. Some Items Can’t Be Purchased With It
Yes, it’s a gift card — but no, you can’t use it on everything.
Major brands like Dyson, CHANEL, and certain salon services are often excluded. Some buyers don’t find out until they hit the checkout counter.
Warning: Always read the fine print. Ulta gift cards have brand exclusions most people never check.
2. Expired? Not Always — But Sometimes “Inactivated”
Ulta claims gift cards don’t expire — but users report issues where cards suddenly show $0 balance or come up as “inactive.”
This often happens with cards that sit unused for months or weren’t properly activated at checkout.
Action Tip: After purchasing, keep the receipt. Test the balance immediately to avoid surprises later.
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3. Digital Cards Can Get Lost in Spam
Buying a digital $25 card for someone else? Many never even see it.
Ulta’s eGift cards often land in junk folders — and some recipients report the email never arrived at all.
Urgency Alert: After sending, follow up and confirm your recipient received it. Otherwise, your gift may silently vanish.
4. Card Was Already Used — Before You Got It
Multiple reports show some cards purchased in-store or from third-party resellers arrive already drained.
Ulta’s support is helpful — but refunds aren’t guaranteed without a receipt.
Pro Tip: Avoid marketplace resellers or kiosks. Stick to Ulta.com or verified retailers only.
5. Partial Use = Painful Checkout Experience
Used your card once? Trying to redeem the remaining balance can trigger errors, confusion, or payment rejections online.
It’s worse when combining it with promo codes or other payment methods.
Smart Step: Use your full balance in one go if possible. If splitting, redeem in-store where reps can help.
Final Thought
Buying an Ulta gift card shouldn’t come with stress, but for many, it has.
Don’t let that pretty pink card fool you. Read the fine print, test the balance, and track your email.
It’s more than makeup — it’s your money. Treat it like cash, or risk losing it.