We tested out the rewards programs at Sephora and Ulta — and the winner was clear for one key reason

• One of the biggest differences between beauty retailers Sephora and Ulta is the rewards program offered by each store.
• Sephora Beauty Insiders earn one point for every dollar spent and earn free gifts as points accumulate.
• On the other hand, Ulta's Ultamate Rewards members earn one point for every dollar spent and receive discounts based on how many points they've earned.

As two of the top beauty retailers around, Sephora and Ulta are competitors. One of the biggest differences between them is the rewards program that's offered by each store.  

Through Sephora's Beauty Insider program, shoppers earn free gifts after they've gained a certain amount of points, which can be earned through shopping in store or online. The program grants access to free makeup classes and an online community. Sephora customers who spend $350 in a calender year are upgraded to the VIB program and receive extra benefits such as custom makeovers and free monthly gifts. The most loyal customers, who spend $1,000 in a calender year, are upgraded to VIB Rouge and receive a private beauty advisor hotline, free 2-day shipping, and invites to exclusive events. 

Ulta has a slightly different rewards program. Points are still earned for every dollar spent, but rather than earning free gifts, shoppers can get discounts on anything in the store. While there aren't perks like free makeup classes or an online community, members have more opportunities to earn double or triple points through store promotions. Platinum members, who spend $450 or more in a year, earn 25% more points per purchase and are eligible for exclusive coupons and deals. Diamond members, who spend $1,200 in a year, earn 50% more points per purchase, free shipping on orders over $25, a $25 beauty service reward card, and invites to exclusive events. 

With both programs, the benefits are more impressive as you accumulate more points. Sephora shoppers can earn gift packages of high-end products, while Ulta shoppers can get hundreds of dollars off a purchase — sometimes getting prestige brand products for free. 

 To see which rewards program has more to offer, we put both to the test. Here's what we found: 

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I signed up for both rewards programs online.

Sephora was first.

After signing up, I was taken to my new Beauty Insider profile.

I was prompted to create a nickname, upload a profile photo, and explore the online community.

The community allows rewards members to join groups, browse makeup looks, and view a Beauty Insider event calendar.

You can also chat with other Beauty Insiders as you shop.