Ulta Haul 2024: Top Beauty Picks & Reviews

Best Ulta Beauty Finds Analyzed

After reviewing this detailed haul, we've identified standout products that truly deliver value. The creator's firsthand testing reveals winners across foundations, bronzers, lip combos, and tools. For those researching drugstore gems versus luxury splurges, these insights cut through the hype.

Milani Baked Bronzer: Budget Luxury

The standout discovery is the reformulated Milani Baked Bronzer in Tuscan Sun. Its butter-soft texture and skin-like finish rival high-end options like Hourglass. Key observations:

• Exceptional pigmentation with minimal shimmer
• Applies like a high-end formula at $12-$15
• Despite reduced size (3.5g), potency requires less product per use
  This outperforms Maybelline Fit Me based on the creator's side-by-side testing.

NYX Makeup Revolution

Soft Buildable Matte Foundation

This full-coverage matte foundation channels 2016 glam with modern improvements. Crucial notes:

• Comparable to Estée Lauder Double Wear but lighter weight
• The precision nozzle prevents mess
• Shade matching is critical: Apply to jawline and neck

Lip Liner Stains

Send Nudes (rosy nude) and Naughty Nude (warm brown) offer lasting color without the premium price of Huda Beauty dupes.

Professional Application Tools

NYX Wonder Puff & Powder

The viral powder puff's tapered edge perfects nose contouring. Paired with the brightening powder:

• Use shade Sugar Serve under eyes
• Twist-lock mechanism prevents spills (learned too late!)

Morphe Buttery Blends Brushes

Pastel yellow brushes with professional performance:

• M242: Ideal for cream bronzer
• M244: Builds pigment quickly
• M202: Best with powders or balmy blushes

Lip Combos That Deliver

Kylie Glossy Lip Kit

The "Comes Naturally" combo features a cool-toned liner and medium-coverage gloss. Pro tips:

• Avoid over-lining to prevent gray undertones
• Works best with natural lip pigmentation

Made by Mitchell Lip Kit

The "That's So Mitchell" set includes:

• Mattitude Lipstick in Shy Girl: Creamy, opaque pigment
• Need a Minute Gloss: Clear base with reflective pink shimmer

Industry Insights & Trends

The Matte Foundation Resurgence

As the creator notes, "NYX brings back what the market lacks: true matte coverage." This aligns with the 2016 makeup revival movement. Unlike trending skin tints, these formulas cater to full-coverage seekers.

Made by Mitchell's Ulta Milestone

The brand's expansion into Ulta signifies a notable shift: influencer-founded lines gaining mainstream retail credibility. Their Curve Cases (blush/bronzer palettes) offer pro-artist quality at accessible prices.

Actionable Beauty Checklist

1. Test Milani Bronzer: Swatch Tuscan Sun in-store - apply with a dense brush
2. Match NYX Foundation: Shade test in natural light before purchasing
3. Try IGK Volume Spray: Spritz at roots for weightless lift
4. Simplify Lip Staining: Use NYX liners for budget-friendly longevity
5. Utilize Coupons: Always check Ulta's $3.50 off $15 deals

Final Verdict

The Milani Baked Bronzer and NYX Matte Foundation deliver unparalleled value in this haul, proving drugstore brands can outperform luxury counterparts. As beauty analysts, we confirm these align with 2024's shift toward hybrid products: professional results at accessible prices.

When trying these finds, which product are you most excited to test? Share your plans below!